Recently, we published an insightful article detailing the 15 Best Blue Chip Stocks to Buy According to Billionaires. In this expanded discussion, we will explore the positioning of Salesforce, Inc. (NYSE:CRM) in the context of other blue chip stocks favored by influential billionaires, while also examining the broader economic landscape shaped by recent tariff announcements.

Is A Potential Trade War on the Horizon?

The U.S. stock market has experienced significant volatility in recent weeks, largely triggered by President Donald Trumps announcement of sweeping 10% tariffs affecting all U.S. trading partners. This move, alongside increased tariffs on nations that maintain a trade deficit with the United States, has raised concerns among economists and investors alike. Many fear that these aggressive tariff policies could escalate into a full-blown trade war, putting further pressure on inflation rates and possibly leading to an economic slowdown.

Experts warn that such a scenario could prompt a rapid sell-off in U.S. markets, as fears of recession loom on the horizon. On April 10, CNBC reported a notable spike in stock prices, which surged sharply following a four-day decline. This increase occurred right after President Trump announced a temporary pause in a significant portion of his tariff strategy. However, this announcement was met with skepticism; the White House accused Democratic lawmakers of engaging in partisan games by questioning whether any stock market purchases made prior to the announcement were based on insider knowledge of the impending tariff pause.

Adding to the complexity, Trump reaffirmed his commitment to imposing higher tariffs on China even as he declared a 90-day pause on steeper-than-baseline rates for numerous other countries. This inconsistency raises questions about the administration's long-term strategy and its potential impact on the stock market.

Record High Tariffs in the U.S.

On April 11, Erica York, an economist and vice president of federal tax policy at the Tax Foundations Center for Federal Tax Policy, weighed in on the current economic scenario during a segment on CNBCs The Exchange. York pointed out that the potential imposition of approximately 145% in total tariffs on Chinese goods could effectively halt most trade between the U.S. and China. She elaborated, stating, It depends on how narrowly the tariff is applied or how broadly its applied, but generally, if you get north of a triple-digit tariff, you are cutting off most trade.

York noted that while some companies might absorb costs associated with essential imported goods that lack substitutes, a substantial majority of trade would be severely hindered under such high tariffs. She emphasized that Trumps new tariffs on China, combined with earlier measures, would elevate the average tariff rate to unprecedented levels not seen since the 1940s.

As the markets continue to navigate this turbulent economic environment, numerous investment opportunities are emerging. Therefore, lets turn our attention back to the 15 best blue chip stocks to buy according to billionaires, including Salesforce, which is uniquely positioned in this shifting landscape.