**SEO Title**: Bank of America CEO Predicts Trade Tensions Will Ease in 2026
**Meta Description**: Brian Moynihan of Bank of America anticipates a reduction in trade tensions under the Trump administration, despite current tariff challenges.
**URL Slug**: bank-of-america-ceo-trade-tensions-2026
**Headline**: Bank of America CEO Brian Moynihan Anticipates Easing Trade Tensions in 2026
In a recent interview, Bank of America Chief Executive Officer Brian Moynihan expressed optimism regarding the potential de-escalation of trade tensions under the Trump administration in 2026. Following a tumultuous period marked by tariffs that significantly impacted the U.S. economy, Moynihan believes that the current trajectory indicates a move towards reduced trade barriers.
Moynihan’s comments, recorded earlier in December and broadcast on CBS News’ Face the Nation, highlighted that Bank of America is now observing a trend of “de-escalation, not escalation.” He noted that the average tariff rate has increased to 15%, with even higher rates imposed on countries that do not commit to U.S. purchases or fail to lower non-tariff barriers. “Transitioning from a 10% across-the-board tariff to 15% for a broad range of countries is not a significant impact,” Moynihan stated, emphasizing that this shift signals a beginning of de-escalation.
In April, the Trump administration introduced a baseline tariff rate of 10% on all exporters to the U.S., followed by additional tariffs in July that were projected to raise the average rate to 15.2% for major trading partners. According to Bloomberg Economics, the average U.S. tariff rate surged from 2% to 14% after Trump resumed office.
Moynihan acknowledged that China presents a unique challenge, as do North American trading partners, particularly with a review of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement scheduled for next year. “However, on a broader scale, we can see a potential endpoint to these tensions,” he remarked.
The impact of higher tariffs and trade policy uncertainty has been felt by small businesses, particularly in the second quarter of the year. However, Moynihan noted that recent easing of rates has provided some relief. Currently, he indicated that small businesses are more concerned about labor availability than tariffs, as certain immigration policies from the Trump administration have yet to stabilize.
In conclusion, as the U.S. navigates its trade relationships, the outlook from Bank of America’s CEO suggests a cautious optimism for a future with reduced trade tensions, which could benefit the broader economy.
**FAQ Section**
**Q: What are the expected changes in U.S. trade policy under the Trump administration?**
A: Bank of America CEO Brian Moynihan anticipates a de-escalation of trade tensions, with a shift from higher tariffs to more stable trade relationships, particularly as the U.S. reviews its agreements with major trading partners.