Trump Tariff Investment Strategy: 10 CFP Tips to Navigate 2025 Tariffs

Published: April 17, 2025

President Trump’s 2025 tariff plan, featuring a 10% blanket tariff on major U.S. trading partners and a 145% tariff on Chinese goods, is driving market volatility and economic uncertainty. A 90-day pause on some tariffs offers a brief reprieve, but investors are left wondering: Should you adjust your Trump tariff investment strategy? We consulted 10 certified financial planners (CFPs) for expert advice on safeguarding your portfolio. (Seeking personalized guidance? Connect with a fiduciary advisor via our partner SmartAsset or resources like NAPFA and the CFP Board.)

1. Bolster Cash Savings

Laura LaTourette, CFP, Family Wealth Management Group
“Trump tariffs could spark market swings. Increase savings and invest in CDs to stay secure, and consider early RMD distributions for added flexibility.”
Action: Explore top savings and CD rates at Bankrate.

2. Recalibrate Risk Levels

Anna N’Jie-Konte, CFP, Poder Wealth Advisors
“Avoid drastic changes, but reassess your risk tolerance. If market volatility feels unsettling, adjust your portfolio to match your comfort zone.”
Tip: Use portfolio tools to ensure risk alignment.

3. Resist Headline-Driven Moves

Cary Carbonaro, CFP, Ashton Thomas Private Wealth
“Don’t let tariff news disrupt your Trump tariff investment strategy. Long-term plans are built to endure short-term noise.”
Key Point: Emotional reactions often harm returns.

4. Add Bonds for Balance

Spencer Betts, CFP, Bickling Financial
“Bonds and conservative equities reduce volatility. Retirees should hold 12–16 months of cash in money markets or short-term bonds.”
Pro Tip: Rebalance to include bonds if suitable.

5. Stick to Your Core Plan

Jeremy Shipp, CFP
“Robust investment planning withstands political shifts. If your goals are unchanged, maintain your Trump tariff investment strategy to avoid losses.”
Reminder: Goal-focused portfolios outperform reactive ones.

6. Diversify with Alternatives

Henry Yoshida, CFP, Rocket Dollar
“Private and alternative assets are less tied to tariff-driven swings. Consider them to strengthen your Trump tariff investment strategy.”
Insight: Tariff news is boosting alternative asset interest.

7. Don’t Sell in Panic

Andrew Lokenauth, TheFinanceNewsletter.com
“Panic-selling during tariff announcements locks in losses. My diversified investment planning stays steady, as markets historically rebound.”
Lesson: Discipline captures recoveries.

8. Capitalize on Dips

Eric Blattner, CFA, CFP, Divvi Wealth Management
“Corrections are buying opportunities. Since 1950, the S&P 500’s 5-year return after a 10% drop averages over 8% annually.”
Stat: Long-term investors thrive through volatility.

9. Avoid Overreactions

Chitra Patel, CFP, WealthWorth
“Tariffs have fueled the most volatile U.S. stock quarter in three years. Stay patient, as impulsive shifts can derail financial planning.”
Fact: Tariffs may raise U.S. import duties to a 100-year high of 24%.

10. Focus on Long-Term Gains

Ben Bakkum, CFP, Betterment
“Tariffs could lift prices, but recession odds are 35–45%. With job growth steady, don’t sell stocks. Prioritize growth in your Trump tariff investment strategy.”
Outlook: Economic resilience supports stability.

5 Steps to Build a Resilient Trump Tariff Investment Strategy

• Increase Liquidity: Save more cash to weather market volatility.
• Check Risk Tolerance: Adjust allocations for comfort.
• Diversify Assets: Include bonds or alternatives for stability.
• Stay Calm: Ignore short-term tariff noise.
• Get Expert Help: Consult a fiduciary advisor for tailored financial planning.

Take Control of Your Financial Future

Trump’s tariffs may challenge markets, but a disciplined Trump tariff investment strategy ensures you’re prepared. Stay diversified, avoid emotional decisions, and align your portfolio with long-term goals. For expert guidance, connect with a fiduciary advisor via SmartAsset or platforms like the CFP Board.