To The Moon

Over the past day, former US President Donald Trump has been involved in a series of notable activities and statements across foreign policy, energy, trade, and financial matters.

Criticism of Spain

Trump commented on Spain's role within NATO, stating that while it is a member, it has not been a particularly friendly or well-performing one, though he suggested it would learn how to improve.

Call for Lower Gas Prices

Trump noted that oil and gasoline prices are falling as he promised, but not quickly enough. He highlighted that a retailer, the "Freedom Fuel Network," would lower prices at 25 stations in the Greater Philadelphia area on July 3rd, urging other companies to follow suit. He predicted gasoline prices would soon return to the record lows seen before the "Iran Action."

NATO Loyalty Remarks and German Rebuttal

Trump's remarks suggesting NATO European allies should show unconditional loyalty to Washington were rebutted by German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius. Pistorius stated that NATO does not operate on blind obedience and that decisions are made by consensus among all members, not unilaterally by any single nation.

First Flight on New 'Air Force One'

On July 1st, Trump took his inaugural flight on the new 'Air Force One' presidential aircraft, a gift from the Qatari government. He praised the plane extensively, remarking that the United States could not build such an aircraft.

Potential OpenAI Equity Stake

OpenAI is in discussions with the US government regarding a potential sale of a 5% stake. The AI startup, valued at $852 billion, is seeking to navigate political hurdles by securing financial support from the Trump administration.

Accelerating AI Model Standards

The US government is engaged in advanced negotiations with AI companies to establish voluntary standards for releasing new models. These standards, which could be announced as soon as next week, aim to set benchmarks for models with advanced capabilities and create release timelines to streamline future product launches. This effort implements an AI executive order Trump issued last month, as various groups seek clarity on government oversight of the technology.

'Trump Account' Portfolio Holdings Revealed

The US Treasury Department disclosed the investment holdings for the "Trump Account," revealing a primary focus on broad-market index funds like the S&P 500 ETF.

Planned Speech in Extreme Heat

Trump announced his intention to deliver a very long speech on July 4th despite forecasted temperatures of around 107 degrees Fahrenheit (41.67 Celsius), stating he wanted to prove he could do anything.

Incentivizing Iran on Strait Tolls

According to a report, US and Iranian negotiators are holding talks in Doha focusing on the Strait of Hormuz. The Trump administration has conveyed to Iran that the benefits it would receive from a nuclear agreement would far exceed any potential revenue from imposing tolls on the strait.

Praise for Micron Technology (MU)

Following a $250 million investment by Micron Technology (MU) into the "Trump Account," Trump posted on social media praising the company as a truly great American company and one of the "hottest" in the world.

Adviser Urges Fed Against Rate Hikes

Trump's senior economic adviser, Kevin Hassett, suggested the White House might be displeased with any interest rate increases, warning that using hikes to curb inflation would be a mistake. This comment came two weeks after Christopher Waller assumed the role of Federal Reserve Chair.

Refusal to Renew USMCA in Current Form

US Trade Representative Katherine Tai stated that the United States does not agree to renew the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) in its existing form. The US will continue discussions with Mexico and Canada regarding the agreement's shortcomings and trade deficit issues. The USMCA remains in effect until these issues are resolved or the agreement is terminated.