Ray Dalio Warns Trump’s Tariff Strategy Could Trigger Global Economic Challenges

Ray Dalio, the renowned investor and founder of Bridgewater Associates, has voiced significant concerns over the potential long-term effects of U.S. President Donald Trump’s tariff policies.
In a recent interview with CNBC, Dalio explained that the rising tariffs could exacerbate existing economic troubles, possibly leading to a global slowdown.
Dalio emphasized that while the U.S. faces critical issues like international competitiveness and productivity, the solution in the form of increased tariffs could create further complications. He believes the policy could drive up costs, reduce revenues, and destabilize capital markets, creating a ripple effect across global production systems.
“I agree with the core problem, but I question the practicality of the solution,” Dalio remarked, warning that the tariffs would introduce significant obstacles to production worldwide. He sees this as a part of a larger issue—one that is complex and long-term in nature.
READ MORE: Nations Look to Bitcoin as Global Trust in U.S. Financial System Wanes
Beyond tariffs, Dalio stressed the urgent need for the U.S. to address other systemic financial challenges, including the rising national debt and unchecked government spending. He pointed out that the nation’s budget deficit must be reduced to 3% of GDP in the coming months, calling it a critical issue that requires attention.
“These are deeply rooted problems that won’t be solved easily,” Dalio noted. “The debt burden, overspending, and the competitiveness issue are all interconnected and have been recurring issues throughout history. We are in an economic environment eerily similar to the 1930s.”
Dalio’s comments underscore his concerns about the broader economic landscape, pointing to the potential for political and economic fallout as these challenges continue to mount.