The Monroe Doctrine continues to direct US policy toward Latin America, with consequences not only for diplomacy and security but also for investors watching trade ties, sovereign risk, and fluctuating alliances.

Long-term rates remain high because bond supply is rising while demand at the long end has weakened as central banks run QT and pensions and insurers buy fewer long bonds. Persistent fiscal deficits, ageing demographics and higher term premia keep yields elevated even as inflation falls and policy rates are cut.

During his campaign, President Donald Trump promised steep tariffs, and he has delivered. As of 2025, US consumers are facing an overall average effective tariff rate of 17.4%, the highest since 1935.