Latest news with #Balanced
The Diplomat
16 hours ago
- Automotive
- The Diplomat
Trump Says US and Vietnam Have Reached an Agreement on Tariffs
The United States and Vietnam have struck a trade agreement that sets a tariff of 20 percent tariffs on Vietnamese exports to the U.S., President Donald Trump announced yesterday, reducing tensions between the two nations days before a harsher tariff was set to go into effect. In a post on Truth social, Trump said that the deal would involve a 20 percent tariff 'on any and all goods' exported to the U.S., while transhipped goods – those that pass through Vietnam to circumvent steeper trade barriers – would be hit with a 40 percent tariff. This is considerably lower than the 46 percent rate levied on Vietnam by Trump during his announcement of the sweeping 'reciprocal tariffs' on April 2. 'It is my Great Honor to announce that I have just made a Trade Deal with the Socialist Republic of Vietnam after speaking with To Lam, the Highly Respected General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam,' Trump wrote. He added that Vietnam had agreed to lower its tariffs on all U.S. imports to zero, something that Trump said would benefit the U.S. car industry in particular. 'It is my opinion that the SUV or, as it is sometimes referred to, Large Engine Vehicle, which does so well in the United States, will be a wonderful addition to the various product lines within Vietnam,' Trump said. The deal was also confirmed by Vietnamese state media, which reported that on a call that Lam held with Trump yesterday, the two leaders 'welcomed the agreement reached by the two countries' negotiating teams on the Joint Vietnam-United States Statement on a Fair, Balanced, and Reciprocal Trade Agreement Framework.' According to one report, Trump 'affirmed that the U.S. would significantly reduce reciprocal tariffs on many of Vietnam's export items and would continue to work with Vietnam to address obstacles affecting bilateral trade relations, particularly in areas prioritized by both sides.' Lam also proposed that the U.S. 'soon recognize Vietnam as a market economy and lift export restrictions on certain high-tech products,' and extended an invitation for Trump to visit Vietnam. The announcement, which sent the shares of Nike and other Vietnam-based apparel makers climbing, comes just days before a July 9 deadline that Trump set to resolve negotiations before the imposition of the reciprocal tariffs, including the 46 percent tariff on Vietnamese goods. The tariff threatened to throttle the trade between the U.S. and Vietnam, which has grown by leaps and bounds since the first Trump administration. Indeed, Vietnam was one of the great winners of Trump's first 'trade war' with China. As multinational firms set up factories in Vietnam to reduce their reliance on China as a manufacturing base, the country increased its export share to the U.S. in all categories of products. However, this has seen Vietnam's trade surplus grow rapidly, from $38.3 billion in 2017 to $123.5 billion last year. This has attracted the attention of Trump's hawkish trade advisors, who say that the deficit has been pumped up by the use of Vietnam as a transshipment point for Chinese goods seeking to avoid previous U.S. tariffs. According to some reports, this represents both outright fraud – the slapping of 'Made in Vietnam' labels on Chinese-made products – and the establishment by Chinese companies of factories in Vietnam. Exactly how prevalent the issue is remains a subject of dispute, but on Fox News in April, Trump's hawkish trade adviser Peter Navarro accused Vietnam of being 'essentially a colony of communist China.' During the recent tariff negotiations, Vietnam duly pledged to address the issue. If confirmed, the terms of the agreement are set to significantly increase the price of the garments, electronics, and other goods that Vietnam exports to the U.S. However, Hanoi will likely be satisfied with this outcome, given the worst-case scenario. An earlier report by Reuters report suggested that Vietnam is hoping to get the 46 percent tariff 'reduced to a range of 22 percent to 28 percent, if not lower.' This may depend on whether there are any other unpublicized elements to the deal. Last month, Reuters news agency reported that U.S. trade negotiators had sent a list of 'tough' requests to Vietnam that would force the country to 'cut its reliance on Chinese industrial goods imports,' which have spiked in line with the rise in Vietnamese exports to the U.S. According to the report, the Trump administration 'wants Vietnam-based factories to reduce their use of materials and components from China and is asking the country to control more carefully its production and supply chains.' It also remains unclear whether the U.S. will agree to Lam's requests for the United States to recognize it as a market economy – a step that the Biden administration declined to take last year – and remove restrictions on the exports of high-tech products to the country. In the immediate term, the deal seems set to stabilize the relationship between Vietnam and the U.S., which has grown in recent years in large part due to a shared concern for China's rising power. The longer-term impacts are harder to guess. It is clear that Hanoi was stung by the announcement of the 46 percent tariff, one of the highest rates in the world, and Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh said that it 'did not reflect the strong bilateral relations between the two nations.' Despite this compromise, Vietnamese leaders will likely continue their efforts, telegraphed shortly after the April 2 tariff announcement, to diversify the country's export markets. Given the unpredictability of U.S. policy over the past few administrations, it is wise to cushion themselves against a future spasm of protectionism.
The Star
18 hours ago
- Business
- The Star
Vietnam and US reach agreement on trade deal
HANOI: General Secretary To Lam and President Donald Trump welcomed the agreement reached by the two countries' negotiating teams on the Joint Vietnam–United States Statement on a Fair, Balanced, and Reciprocal Trade Agreement Framework. General Secretary To Lam held a telephone conversation with United States President Donald Trump on Wednesday (July 2) to discuss Vietnam–US relations and negotiations on reciprocal tariffs between the two countries. Vietnamese and US top leaders expressed their delight at the strong and positive development of bilateral relations. General Secretary To Lam and President Donald Trump welcomed the agreement reached by the two countries' negotiating teams on the Joint Vietnam–United States Statement on a Fair, Balanced, and Reciprocal Trade Agreement Framework. President Trump highly appreciated Vietnam's commitment to granting preferential market access to US goods, including large-engine vehicles. He affirmed that the US would significantly reduce reciprocal tariffs on many of Vietnam's export items and would continue to work with Vietnam to address obstacles affecting bilateral trade relations, particularly in areas prioritised by both sides. Party leader Lam proposed that the US soon recognise Vietnam as a market economy and lift export restrictions on certain high-tech products. General Secretary Lam and President Trump also discussed key orientations and major measures to promote the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in the years to come. The two leaders agreed to enhance delegation exchanges, high-level and all-level contacts, and to strengthen cooperation in the areas of economy, trade and investment, especially in key and breakthrough sectors such as science and high technology. On this occasion, General Secretary Lam reiterated his invitation for President Trump and the First Lady to visit Vietnam, and expressed his hope to meet President Trump again shortly. President Trump warmly thanked the General Secretary for the invitation and expressed his desire to meet again soon. On Truth Social, US President Trump stated that, per the "Great Deal of Cooperation," Vietnam would "pay the United States a 20% tariff on any goods sent into our Territory, and a 40% Tariff on any Transshipping." This is down significantly from the 46 per cent in the original reciprocal tariff plan announced on April 2, 2025, a date Trump referred to as "Liberation Day." In return, Vietnam would cut all tariffs on American goods into the country. "The United States would reportedly gain 'TOTAL ACCESS' to Vietnamese markets, enabling American products—particularly large engine vehicles like SUVs—to be sold in Vietnam at zero tariff," Trump wrote. He went on to say that "the SUV or, as it is sometimes referred to, Large Engine Vehicle, which does so well in the United States, will be a wonderful addition to the various product lines within Vietnam." The two countries' leader had a phone call two days after the US President announced a sweeping tariff policy targeting most of the US trade partners in early April, in which Party chief To Lam has offered to slash all tariffs for US goods to zero, and urged the US to do the same for Vietnamese goods. Vietnam and the US, in the grace period, have conducted three rounds of negotiations on a trade deal. - Vietnam News/ANN
Asia News Network
21 hours ago
- Business
- Asia News Network
Vietnam, US top leaders announce agreement reached on trade deal
July 3, 2025 HANOI – General Secretary Tô Lâm held a telephone conversation with United States President Donald Trump on Wednesday to discuss Việt Nam–US relations and negotiations on reciprocal tariffs between the two countries. Vietnamese and US top leaders expressed their delight at the strong and positive development of bilateral relations. General Secretary Tô Lâm and President Donald Trump welcomed the agreement reached by the two countries' negotiating teams on the Joint Việt Nam–United States Statement on a Fair, Balanced, and Reciprocal Trade Agreement Framework. President Trump highly appreciated Việt Nam's commitment to granting preferential market access to US goods, including large-engine vehicles. He affirmed that the US would significantly reduce reciprocal tariffs on many of Việt Nam's export items and would continue to work with Việt Nam to address obstacles affecting bilateral trade relations, particularly in areas prioritised by both sides. Party leader Lâm proposed that the US soon recognise Việt Nam as a market economy and lift export restrictions on certain high-tech products. General Secretary Lâm and President Trump also discussed key orientations and major measures to promote the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in the years to come. The two leaders agreed to enhance delegation exchanges, high-level and all-level contacts, and to strengthen cooperation in the areas of economy, trade and investment, especially in key and breakthrough sectors such as science and high technology. On this occasion, General Secretary Lâm reiterated his invitation for President Trump and the First Lady to visit Việt Nam, and expressed his hope to meet President Trump again in the near future. President Trump warmly thanked the General Secretary for the invitation and expressed his desire to meet again soon. On Truth Social, US President Trump stated that, per the 'Great Deal of Cooperation,' Việt Nam would 'pay the United States a 20% tariff on any and all goods sent into our Territory, and a 40% Tariff on any Transshipping.' This is down significantly from the 46 per cent in the original reciprocal tariff plan announced on April 2, 2025, a date Trump referred to as 'Liberation Day.' In return, Việt Nam would cut all tariffs for American goods into the country. 'The United States would reportedly gain 'TOTAL ACCESS' to Vietnamese markets, enabling American products—particularly large engine vehicles like SUVs—to be sold in Việt Nam at zero tariff,' Trump wrote. He went on to say that 'the SUV or, as it is sometimes referred to, Large Engine Vehicle, which does so well in the United States, will be a wonderful addition to the various product lines within Vietnam.' The two countries' leader had a phone call two days after the US President announced a sweeping tariff policy targeting most of the US trade partners in early April, in which Party chief Tô Lâm has offered to slash all tariffs for US goods to zero, and urged the US to do the same for Vietnamese goods. Việt Nam and the US in the grace period have conducted three rounds of negotiations on a trade deal.
Miami Herald
a day ago
- Health
- Miami Herald
Inside Integrative Health: Fertility fundamentals everyone should know
As the average age of conception rises and fertility challenges are becoming increasingly common, many individuals and couples are wondering how they can optimize their chances of not only conceiving, but also ensuring a healthy pregnancy. While the standard medical approach tends to start with, 'Try for 12 months, then we'll talk,' couples are left to sift through huge amounts of information trying to uncover what is actually helpful — and rooted in science. Fortunately, there is a significant and often overlooked place to start: Supporting reproductive health holistically. Adopting proactive dietary and lifestyle changes can affect fertility for both men and women, sometimes even reducing the need for expensive and invasive procedures. Still, knowing where to begin isn't always easy, even for the most health-conscious. The Foundation: A Balanced Plate for Reproductive Health A stable blood sugar curve is key to hormone balance and ovulation, which is why intake of macronutrients — protein, fats and complex carbs — is so important. Rapid spikes and drops in blood sugar caused by energy drinks or carb-heavy meals can disrupt the delicate hormonal rhythms essential for both egg and sperm health. A good rule of thumb is making sure you fill about half your plate with colorful or green leafy vegetables, a quarter with protein and a quarter with high-quality carbohydrates. For snacks, make sure to always add a protein or fat source. Even healthy bites like fruits and vegetables have the potential to disrupt blood sugar when eaten alone. Pair your apple with nut butter or cheese and dip your vegetables in a creamy dip or hummus for better blood sugar regulation. Micronutrients — the vitamins and minerals found in smaller amounts in our food — are equally essential for various processes throughout the body. Vitamin A supports egg and sperm development, hormone production and fetal D aids ovarian function and follicular development in women, and boosts semen quality in is essential for cell growth, detoxification and neural tube formation. It also improves sperm count and morphology. The most effective way to meet these micronutrient needs is through nutrient-dense whole foods. Overreliance on packaged and processed foods can leave significant nutritional gaps. Here are some fertility superfoods for optimal nutrient density: Liver & organ meats: Commonly referred to as 'nature's multivitamin' because of high concentrations of retinol (Vitamin A), folate, B12, iron, zinc, and selenium, crucial for both male and female fertility. Fish & seafood: Cold-water fatty fish (sardines, wild salmon), oysters, clams, and mussels for omega-3s, zinc and B12. Wild-caught is commonly more nutrient-dense than farm-raised. Pastured animal products & healthy fats: Grass-fed meats and eggs are filled with essential amino acids, critical for reproductive health. Fats are also vital for hormone production — opt for healthy sources like ghee, grass-fed butter, lard, olive oil and avocados. Leafy green vegetables & fruits: Filled with fiber, phytonutrients and antioxidants, fill your plate with colorful, fresh fruits and vegetables whenever possible. Beyond the Plate: Lifestyle Factors for Fertility Nutrition is just one piece of the puzzle. Lifestyle habits — especially those linked to stress, sleep and toxins — can affect reproductive function. Stress Management Chronic stress can disrupt hormone balance and potentially lead to fertility challenges. Our hormones are regulated by our brain, and the same part of the brain (the hypothalamus) that helps manage reproductive processes also manages our cortisol levels. Cortisol is a stress hormone — when you're stuck in fight-or-flight mode, the body will most likely de-prioritize fertility hormones like progesterone. This can lead to delayed ovulation, irregular cycles and other hormonal imbalances. Practicing mindfulness may seem like a luxury, but it's essential for a healthy body and healthy hormones. Meditation, yoga or simply setting aside time for relaxation can make all the difference in signaling safety to your body and creating an environment that's more supportive of reproduction. Sleep It's no secret that sleep is important. We all know we should be getting more of it, but getting to bed earlier is easier said than done. You might have factors outside of your control affecting your rest, like racing thoughts about the busy day ahead, a partner who snores or a tiny human that needs things in the middle of the night. Aim to get at least seven hours of sleep per night and make sure to get adequate natural light (especially in the morning) during the day to help keep your circadian rhythms regulated. A calming and consistent nighttime routine can go a long way to improve your rest. Reducing light exposure is key — do your best to put down your phone and turn off the TV or laptop at least one hour before bed. Reading or journaling are great wind-down activities. Blue light blockers are a smart hack if you have to use screens after the sun sets. They are even more effective if they have a red tint to filter out 100% of the blue light in your environment. Exercise Exercise supports metabolic and hormonal health, but overdoing it can backfire. High-intensity workouts multiple times per week — or twice-daily sessions — can affect ovulation and lower sperm quality. Balance is key. If you experience very light periods, long cycles, or show other signs of overtraining, it might be time to dial it back in favor of more restorative movement. Environmental Toxins and Xenoestrogens Exposure to environmental toxins can affect reproductive health for both men and women. Pesticides in our food supply and other estrogenic chemicals (also called xenoestrogens) can be found in many consumer products such as personal care items and cleaning supplies. It's good to be aware of this fact but there's no need to overhaul everything all at once. When you run out of a product you usually use, make the swap to a cleaner alternative. Laundry detergent and other daily-use personal care products can be a good place to start. You can use an app like Clearya to easily find healthier versions as you shop. Other Specific Male-Factor Lifestyle Considerations Keep things cool: Testicles function best when they stay cool — about 2-7 degrees cooler than the rest of the body. Tight-fitting undergarments, prolonged sitting and frequent use of hot tubs or saunas can all raise testicular temperature and negatively affect sperm parameters. Medical check-ups: A semen analysis can identify underlying issues like urogenital tract infections or varicocele (enlarged veins in the scrotum that increase testicular temperature), which may contribute to fertility problems and often go undetected without testing. Final Thoughts The true beauty of taking a holistic approach to reproductive health is the ripple effect it can have. Optimizing your diet and lifestyle not only supports fertility outcomes, but also can balance hormones, improve cycle regularity and boost overall well-being. By addressing these foundational elements now, you're setting your body up for success in all aspects, not just reproduction. Ultimately, you have more agency in your reproductive health journey than you might think. Start with the basics: Nourishing food, stress relief, restorative sleep and reducing exposure to harmful toxins. The results can be profound. As always, it's important to consult with your healthcare provider before making any significant changes to your diet, lifestyle or medical care. While these holistic strategies can support reproductive health, ongoing concerns should be discussed with a qualified healthcare professional or fertility specialist. Information adapted from the Fertility Awareness Mastery Mentorship (FAMM) program © Fertility Friday Publishing Inc.
Scoop
22-06-2025
- Business
- Scoop
ASB Appoints Frank Jasper As Chief Investment Officer
Press Release – ASB Frank has a proven track record of success as an investment manager, including time as a Senior Portfolio Manager and then Chief Investment Officer at Fisher Funds, with more than 20 years of experience in the industry. ASB has appointed Frank Jasper to the new role of Chief Investment Officer (CIO), strengthening ASB's in-house investment management expertise. Frank has a proven track record of success as an investment manager, including time as a Senior Portfolio Manager and then Chief Investment Officer at Fisher Funds, with more than 20 years of experience in the industry. Frank will work closely with ASB investment partner, BlackRock, which will see clients continue to benefit from BlackRock's global reach, expertise, and proven performance. 'I look forward to building on ASB's strong investment track record, working alongside BlackRock to continue to deliver strong returns for our clients in a rapidly changing environment. Delivering strong investment returns is only part of the puzzle to unlock greater wealth for Kiwi. I am very passionate about helping our clients, and all New Zealanders, to feel empowered to make better investment decisions, which will have a great long-term impact on their finances.' says Frank. ASB General Manager Wealth Emma-Jayne Liddy says Frank is a fantastic addition to the ASB team, bringing valuable experience and perspective both from his role on our Investment Committee and beyond, and is joining at a critical time for this part of the business. 'It's an exciting time for our Wealth business. We are proud of our strong investment track record, with the Morningstar KiwiSaver Survey placing our 12-month returns in the top quartile across all our diversified funds as at 31 March 2025. Additionally, the MJW 2025 Investment Survey has placed us in first place for one-year returns, across our Growth, Balanced and Moderate KiwiSaver funds, and we were also a finalist for Fund Manager of the year for 2025 in the Morningstar Awards for Investing Excellence. We want to continue building on this success for our clients. With a volatile market, the recent changes to KiwiSaver announced by the Government, and an uncertain geopolitical environment, it's important for our clients and all New Zealanders to have confidence in their investments. We have a big role to play here and we're looking forward to Frank's leadership and expertise to help set the business up to deliver on its ambition.' says Emma-Jayne. Frank Jasper started in his new role in June 2025. Alongside his new role as ASB CIO, Frank will continue as a member of the ASB Investment Committee, which he has been a part of since 2022.
