Discussions on economic divergence, U.S. policy considerations in Argentina, developments in the rare earths sector, and the disproportionate impact of tariffs on small enterprises were the focus of the latest episode of The AAF Exchange. n nDouglas Holtz-Eakin, President of the American Action Forum, joined by trade policy analyst Jacob Jensen, provided insights into these interconnected economic themes. n nThe conversation explored how global economic trends are increasingly splitting along geopolitical and industrial lines, with implications for domestic policy. The analysts examined potential U.S. intervention strategies in Argentina amid economic instability, highlighting concerns over inflation and fiscal sustainability. n nOn rare earth materials, the episode covered supply chain vulnerabilities and efforts to reduce dependency on dominant foreign producers. The speakers emphasized the strategic importance of securing alternative sources for high-tech and defense applications. n nA significant portion of the discussion addressed how tariff policies, while intended to protect certain industries, often place a heavier burden on smaller firms due to limited capacity to absorb cost increases or shift supply chains. n nThe episode referenced several publications and research briefs from the American Action Forum, offering data-driven analysis on trade, fiscal policy, and market dynamics. n
— News Original —nThe AAF Exchange — Ep. 178: Economic Bifurcation, Argentina, Rare Earths, and Tariffsn nEconomic bifurcation, intervening in Argentina, the latest on rare earths, and tariffs’ outsized impact on small businesses — joining us to discuss it all is AAF President Douglas Holtz-Eakin and AAF Trade Policy Analyst Jacob Jensen. n nAAF products mentioned in today’s episode: