Shares of General Motors (GM) tumbled 5.04% in after-hours trading on Wednesday, following President Donald Trump's announcement of new tariffs on imported vehicles. The sharp decline came as investors reacted to the potential impact of these tariffs on the automaker's business.
During a press conference held at 4 p.m. ET, Trump revealed plans to impose a 25% tariff on all cars not manufactured in the USA. The president stated, "We will do 25% on all cars not made in USA," emphasizing that these auto tariffs would be permanent and go into effect on April 2. Trump also mentioned that the tariffs would apply to finished vehicles but not to automotive parts.
The announcement has sent shockwaves through the auto industry, with General Motors being particularly vulnerable due to its significant manufacturing presence in Canada and Mexico. Analysts have warned that such tariffs could severely impact automakers' profits, potentially leading to billions in losses. UBS analyst Joseph Spak projected that under a scenario with 25% tariffs and no relief for the industry, both Ford and GM could lose money in 2025.
While the full implications of these tariffs are yet to be determined, the immediate market reaction suggests that investors are deeply concerned about the potential negative impact on General Motors' operations and financial performance. As the situation develops, all eyes will be on how GM and other automakers respond to this significant shift in trade policy.
