Car Loans Online :: News
SHARE

Share this news item!

US Stock Decline Intensifies Amid Tariff Fears

US Stock Decline Intensifies Amid Tariff Fears

US Stock Decline Intensifies Amid Tariff Fears?w=400

The information on this website is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Consider seeking personal advice from a licensed adviser before acting on any information.

US stock markets faced a significant downturn on Tuesday, deepening a selloff not seen in months, fueled by investors' concerns over the latest round of tariff threats and their potential repercussions on the global economy.
The S&P 500 reached a critical low, nearing a 10 per cent drop from its record high, reflecting growing market volatility amidst mixed updates on international trade tensions and geopolitical events.

Market uncertainties were heightened by President Donald Trump's announcement to escalate tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminium imports, sparking apprehension about wider economic impacts and potential recessionary threats. This escalation follows a tumultuous Monday, where the S&P 500 witnessed its most significant one-day decline since December 18, erasing over $US1.3 trillion in market value. Meanwhile, technology and consumer discretionary sectors showed the smallest declines amidst the overall market downtrend.

The geopolitical landscape added another layer of complexity as US stocks recorded some recovery following news of resumed US-Ukraine military aid and intelligence sharing, coupled with Ontario's decision to suspend its surcharge on electricity exports to key US states. The temporary positivity provided a brief respite but was overshadowed by tariff and economic growth concerns.

Strategists like Ken Polcari from SlateStone Wealth highlight the market's anxious response to ambiguous trade policies and global economic indicators. Chris Fasciano of Commonwealth Financial Network stressed the challenge for investors to adapt portfolios amidst ongoing uncertainty surrounding tariffs, international agreements, and economic policies.

The broader implications for the US economy continue, as major indexes like the Dow Jones Industrial Average and the Nasdaq Composite record further losses. Tariff-driven uncertainty also negatively impacted consumer sentiment, with significant stock declines in retail and airline sectors led by companies like Kohl's and Delta Air Lines, due to downgraded earnings forecasts.

Citi's downgrade of its US stock outlook to "neutral" underscores widespread apprehension as declining issues outpaced advancers across major exchanges. Investors are closely watching upcoming economic data releases, which may shed light on inflation trends and labor market conditions, both critical in gauging the health of the economy amidst these turbulent times.

The volatile trading activity and steepened decline in stock valuations reflect a market grappling with rapid shifts in trade policy and economic forecasts. As the global markets adjust to these developments, investors and businesses remain vigilant, monitoring for any signals of stabilization or further turbulence in the weeks to come.

Published:Wednesday, 12th Mar 2025
Author: Paige Estritori

Please Note: We do not endorse any specific products or companies. Some content is sourced from third parties, including press releases, and may not be independently verified for accuracy or completeness.

Share this news item:

Finance News

China Overtakes Japan as Australia's Leading Vehicle Importer
China Overtakes Japan as Australia's Leading Vehicle Importer
26 Mar 2026: Paige Estritori
In a landmark development for Australia's automotive industry, February 2026 saw China surpass Japan to become the nation's largest source of new vehicle imports. According to data from the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI), 22,362 vehicles imported from China were sold in Australia during the month, edging out Japan's 21,671 units. This shift marks the first time since 1998 that Japan has not held the top position in Australia's vehicle import hierarchy. - read more
ASIC Calls for Strengthened Consumer Safeguards in Car Finance Sector
ASIC Calls for Strengthened Consumer Safeguards in Car Finance Sector
26 Mar 2026: Paige Estritori
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has conducted a comprehensive review of the nation's motor vehicle finance sector, uncovering significant issues that raise concerns about consumer protection and lending practices. The findings, released in November 2025, highlight deficiencies in lenders' oversight of car finance distributors, including problematic sales tactics and inadequate auditing processes. - read more
Australia's Electric Vehicle Market Set for Significant Growth in 2026
Australia's Electric Vehicle Market Set for Significant Growth in 2026
26 Mar 2026: Paige Estritori
Australia's electric vehicle (EV) market is on a trajectory for substantial growth, with projections indicating that EVs could account for 15% of new car sales by the end of 2026. This anticipated surge is attributed to aggressive price reductions and a significant expansion of charging infrastructure across the country. - read more
ASIC's Investigation Highlights Concerns in Car Finance Practices
ASIC's Investigation Highlights Concerns in Car Finance Practices
10 Mar 2026: Paige Estritori
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has conducted a comprehensive review of the nation's motor vehicle finance sector, uncovering significant issues that raise concerns about consumer protection and lending practices. - read more
Macquarie Bank Transfers $1.5 Billion Car Loan Portfolio to Allied Credit
Macquarie Bank Transfers $1.5 Billion Car Loan Portfolio to Allied Credit
10 Mar 2026: Paige Estritori
In a significant development within the Australian financial sector, Macquarie Bank has agreed to sell a substantial portion of its car loan portfolio to Allied Credit, a leading independent financier. This transaction involves the transfer of over 50,000 car loans, amounting to approximately $1.5 billion, and is expected to be completed by the fourth quarter of 2025. - read more
ASIC Initiates Comprehensive Review of Car Finance Practices in Regional and First Nations Communities
ASIC Initiates Comprehensive Review of Car Finance Practices in Regional and First Nations Communities
10 Mar 2026: Paige Estritori
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has embarked on a thorough review of the motor vehicle finance sector, aiming to bolster consumer protections, particularly for individuals in regional and remote areas, including First Nations communities. This initiative underscores ASIC's commitment to ensuring fair and responsible lending practices across the nation. - read more
CEFC and Hyundai Capital Collaborate to Make EV Loans More Affordable
CEFC and Hyundai Capital Collaborate to Make EV Loans More Affordable
02 Mar 2026: Paige Estritori
The Clean Energy Finance Corporation (CEFC) has announced a significant partnership with Hyundai Capital Australia (HCAU), committing up to $60 million to make electric vehicle (EV) ownership more accessible for Australians. This initiative is designed to reduce the upfront costs associated with purchasing EVs, thereby encouraging more households and small businesses to transition to cleaner transportation options. - read more


Car Loans Articles

Navigating Your Credit Score: How It Affects Your Car Financing Options
Navigating Your Credit Score: How It Affects Your Car Financing Options
Understanding your credit score is a key part of navigating the world of car financing. Whether you're looking to buy your first vehicle or you're an established buyer considering an upgrade, your credit score can significantly impact your financing options. In this section, we'll delve into why your credit score is so essential and provide a primer on how it's calculated. - read more
How to Improve Your Chances of Car Loan Approval
How to Improve Your Chances of Car Loan Approval
Purchasing a car is a significant milestone for many Australians, but securing a loan to finance that purchase can often be a challenging endeavor. Whether you're buying your first car or upgrading to a new model, getting your car loan approved is a critical step in the process. - read more
Finding the Sweet Spot: How to Balance Car Loan Terms with Your Lifestyle
Finding the Sweet Spot: How to Balance Car Loan Terms with Your Lifestyle
Finding the perfect car is an exciting adventure, but securing the right car loan is where the real journey begins. The terms of your car loan can significantly influence your financial health and lifestyle. It's not just about the monthly payments, but also about how the loan will fit into your life for years to come. That’s why understanding the importance of finding a loan that complements your financial situation and lifestyle is crucial. - read more
Understanding Loan Criteria: Tips for Australian Car Buyers
Understanding Loan Criteria: Tips for Australian Car Buyers
Loan criteria refer to the set of standards and requirements that lenders use to evaluate the eligibility of an applicant for a car loan. These criteria help lenders determine the risk associated with lending money to a potential borrower. - read more
Don't Sign Yet! Checklist for Negotiating Car Loan Agreements
Don't Sign Yet! Checklist for Negotiating Car Loan Agreements
Embarking on the journey to purchase a new car is an exhilarating experience, full of the promise of fresh adventures and the satisfaction of ownership. Yet, beneath the sheen and thrill, important financial decisions are at play, particularly when it comes to your car loan agreement. Understanding the importance of negotiating the terms of your car loan cannot be overstated, as a savvy deal can lead to significant savings over time. - read more
10 Car Finance Traps Every Australian Should Steer Clear Of
10 Car Finance Traps Every Australian Should Steer Clear Of
When it comes to financing a car, the importance of vigilance cannot be overstated. Navigating through the maze of loan offers and financial jargon can be overwhelming, making it all too easy to overlook critical details that could cost you dearly in the long run. - read more
The Top 7 Factors Lenders Consider for Car Loan Approval
The Top 7 Factors Lenders Consider for Car Loan Approval
For many Australians, buying a car is a significant milestones. Understanding the factors that influence car loan approval can make this process smoother and more successful. Knowing what lenders prioritise not only enhances your chances of approval but also helps you negotiate better terms. - read more


Need Help Finding a Loan?
Get a free car loan eligibility assessment and compare offers tailored specifically to your circumstances.
Loan Amount:
Postcode:

All quotes are provided obligation-free by a participating broker from our national referral partner network. We respect your Privacy.

All finance quotes are provided free (via our secure server) and without obligation.
We respect your privacy.

Knowledgebase
Equity Release:
A way for homeowners to release cash from the value of their home, either as a lump sum or in installments, while still living in the property.