Introduction

In this episode of Meet the Expert with Elliot Kallen, we sit down with Julia Hermann, Global Market Strategist at New York Life Investment Management, to explore the escalating tariff environment, rising policy uncertainty, and how investors and business owners can adapt. From decoupling with China to diversification in emerging markets like India and Vietnam, this is a must-listen for high-net-worth individuals navigating today’s volatile global Economy.

Watch the Episode Here

Episode Highlights

• Tariffs and policy shocks are reshaping global markets
• U.S. investors are underweight international equities
• Supply chain realignment is slow but ongoing
• India and Mexico poised to benefit from China’s decoupling
• Portfolio resilience through diversification and quality investments
• Energy independence and AI infrastructure are key U.S. Growth themes

Guest Bio: Julia Hermann

Julia Hermann is a Global Market Strategist and economist at New York Life Investment Management. A graduate of Notre Dame and Johns Hopkins University with a master’s in international economics, she brings deep expertise in emerging markets, macro trends, and portfolio construction.

Key Financial Insights

We’re at Peak Policy Uncertainty

Julia emphasized that today’s investment climate is defined by unpredictability. Two major U.S. economic cycles have ended prematurely—one due to the pandemic and now due to policy disruptions like tariffs. The lack of an organic reset in over five years creates a complex backdrop for portfolio planning.

How Business Owners Can Navigate Tariffs

With tariffs soaring—some up to 150%—Julia advises focusing on what we know: tariffs are here to stay, and volatility is inevitable. For investors, that means rethinking diversification, reinforcing portfolio resilience, and preparing for a long-term transition in trade dynamics.

Reshaping Global Portfolios

Historically, U.S. portfolios have underweighted international equities, but this trend is shifting. Julia points to both tactical and structural reasons to look abroad: U.S. markets are overvalued, and global capital is redistributing. Europe, India, and Mexico are among the beneficiaries of this shift.

Supply Chains: Sluggish but Shifting

The idea of instant reshoring is a myth. Julia highlights the complexity of global supply chains and the unique scale of China’s export capacity. She sees “reglobalization” rather than deglobalization, with supply chains being reconfigured rather than reversed.

The Case for the U.S. and Select International Markets

Automation, energy independence, and AI infrastructure offer the U.S. strong investment themes. At the same time, countries like Mexico and Vietnam may emerge as winners from the U.S.-China economic decoupling. India, despite red tape, offers long-term promise thanks to favorable demographics and capital growth potential.

Listener Q&A / Final Thoughts

Elliot and Julia tackle nuanced listener concerns around energy sector volatility, manufacturing returns to the U.S., and the practicality of building new industrial capacity. Julia underscores the value of focusing on investment quality—strong earnings, debt resilience, and dividend-yielding equities—during volatile transitions.

Elliot closes the episode by spotlighting Julia’s clear and confident analysis, praising her as a role model for young professionals and a standout voice in a crowded field of market Experts.

Connect with Us

Want to understand how global tariffs and market trends impact your portfolio? Connect with Elliot Kallen at Prosperity Financial Group for a personalized strategy review.

Call: 925-314-8503
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.prosperityfinancialgroup.com

The post Tariffs, Trade Wars, and Global Strategy: What Investors Must Know Now appeared first on Prosperity Financial Group | San Ramon, CA.

Elliot Kallen Wealth Manager | Registered Principal

For more than three decades, Elliot has provided customized wealth management solutions for entrepreneurs, business owners, retirees, and millennials.

Elliot and his wife, Tammy, are passionate about giving back to the community through their 501(c)(3) foundation, A Brighter Day. Through his partnership with A Brighter Day Charity, the Kallen family has helped local teens and young adults recognize and access resources to cope with the risks of stress and depression.

He enjoys spending his free time with his family. Some of his hobbies include cooking, wine, golf, travel, and studying history.

He lives in Lafayette, California with his wife, step-daughter, and grandson.