The markets reversed course today, falling on news that the US would place tariffs on steel and aluminum from the European Union, Canada, and Mexico by midnight tonight. This pushed the Dow 30 lower by 249, the S&P 500 lower by 18, and the Nasdaq 100 down 16.
Mexican markets (EWW ) sold off on the news. The EWW, which is a broad market ETF, closed lower on the day by 1% on the tariff news. For the year, Mexico is lower by almost 9%, most of that coming in just the last two months. Mexico responded in kind with tariffs of their own on American products including apples, pork bellies, and flat steel.
General Motors (GM ) shares shot higher today by 13% as it was announced that SoftBank is investing $2.25 billion in GM's autonomous vehicle technology division. GM said that they will add $1.1 billion of their own money to the project as well. The focus will be on a self-driving version of the Chevy Cruise, which is expected to be available by 2019, but will start as a driverless taxi service. The move today erases over 3 months of losses.
Google (GOOG ) has announced plans of its own in the driverless space. Google's company Waymo announced that it is in partnership talks with Uber, with a goal of using some Waymo technology in Uber's app. Uber had previously sparred with Google in a lawsuit, but it seems they are willing to put the past behind them now that Uber settled for $245 million. Uber also says they're still on track for a 2019 IPO.
Walmart (WMT ) shares were lower by 1.50% today as the company introduced premium delivery service "Jetblack." For $50 a month, members will get personal shoppers who make recommendations when you text them. It could be for a gift, clothing, or anything else. Shoppers will get images of items and then can place the order via text. The membership will include delivery, wrapping, and returns. Walmart's new acquisitions also include tests to open a cashier-less store similar to Amazon Go.
In other news, consumers are continuing their spending spree. The Commerce Department announced early today that consumer spending jumped 0.6% last month, the largest jump in 5 months. Express (EXPR ) confirmed these numbers with an earnings and revenue announcement that was better than expected. An increase of 33% in online orders was the driving factor behind the gains, with online sales now accounting for about a third of their net sales.