'It's going to be hard': US firms race to get ahead of Trump tariffs

The tariff threats can negatively affect retail stocks and consumer-goods companies that rely heavily on foreign imports. Companies like Walmart and fashion brands may struggle to maintain margins as they pass increased costs to consumers, leading to decreased consumer spending. The overall uncertainty surrounding these policies is likely to restrain economic growth going forward.

Retail companies focused on apparel and footwear are likely to suffer as tariff implementation would lead to increased costs for consumers, impacting sales negatively. Companies such as Steve Madden, which are moving operations outside of China, may face challenges in maintaining profitability during the transition.

Tariff increases proposed could adversely affect companies in the construction and hardware sectors, like Stanley Black & Decker, as they may pass on costs related to imported tools and materials to consumers, leading to probable declines in sales.