Scott Bessent, the U.S. Treasury Secretary, addressed a gathering of ultra-wealthy investors and entrepreneurs at the Milken Institute conference, emphasizing President Donald Trump’s “America First Vision.” His comments came as world markets are looking forward to more substantial actions in top-level talks with trade partners.
Bessent then previewed the administration’s aim-increasing the United States’ attractiveness to foreign investors. He said that under Trump, policies have focused on the government’s role being about creating the right environment for private investment. We’ve run out the backdoor government waste and ill-conceived regulatory roadblocks. Together, we’ve planted the seeds of private investment. And we have watered the ground with new and fertile tax legislation. Next, we harvest. And we hope you’ll sow and reap along with us,” he said.
Throughout the two-day conference, Bessent referenced Trump’s outlandish claim that he’s gone ahead and signed 200 of these deals already. He added that the administration wants to finalize all negotiations within a period of three weeks. This diary demonstrates their commitment to expeditiously enhancing international trade relationships.
Peter Navarro, one of the Trump administration’s chief trade advisors, envisions the U.S. falling as quickly as 90 deals in 90 days. This carries no enforcement. This perhaps is the administration’s biggest bluff in its daring approach to trade negotiations. Even with all those rosy forecasts, none of the new agreements had been made public. This was more than three weeks after President Trump had announced his intention to retreat on punitive, sweeping tariffs.
The Trump administration hinted at potential progress in negotiations with India, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi maintains a close relationship with Trump. Most recently, Modi hosted a meeting with Vice President JD Vance to discuss deepening bilateral trade, a sign of close and continuing engagement between the two countries.
In a shrewd political play, Trump declared a 90-day halt to most of the new high tariff rates. He called it America’s “liberation day.” This pause hopes to create a more positive climate for trade and investment as negotiations continue.
As Bessent’s remarks resonated with the private-jet crowd at the Milken conference, the anticipation surrounding the administration’s trade strategy remains palpable. Investors await further announcements, hopeful for favorable outcomes that align with Trump’s vision of revitalizing the American economy.