The tariffs, which took effect recently, have heightened concerns about escalating global trade tensions. The All Share index began the day trading at more than half a percent down, while local bond yields saw an uptick.

Market Analyst Viv Govender weighed in on the situation, highlighting the negative sentiment surrounding President Donald Trump's tariffs.

"Trump's tariffs have been viewed quite negatively by the market. I think the only positive factor around his tariffs has been the fact that people had come to the belief that he was not being really serious about them, except for maybe around China," Governder explained.

However, recent developments have shown that Trump is indeed serious about imposing significant tariffs on countries like Mexico and Canada.

"The agent of the serious tariffs in places like Mexico and Canada was viewed as, you know, unlikely. However, in recent days, it's been declared that he is planning to do some significant tariffs against these countries, and that would be quite negative, not just for Canada and Mexico obviously, but also negative for the US economy," Govender added.

The introduction of these tariffs has already started to show its effects on the global market, with investors becoming increasingly cautious. The uncertainty surrounding the potential escalation of trade tensions has led to a more defensive stance among market participants.

Local bond yields have risen as a result of the increased demand for safer investments. This shift in investor sentiment reflects the broader concerns about the potential impact of the tariffs on the global economy. The JSE's performance is a clear indicator of the apprehension felt by investors as they navigate the uncertain landscape of international trade.

--SABC/ChannelAfrica--