In this episode of The Band of Traders, Kyle, Bear Goes Long, and special guest Eric Mason (CFO) dive into the economics of tariffs, trade deficits, and the real impact of protectionist policies. Eric, an economist with a sharp wit, breaks down why tariffs rarely work as intended and how trade imbalances are often misunderstood. The trio also explores the unintended consequences of economic policies, from price distortions to supply chain shifts.

Beyond the markets, the conversation takes some unexpected and hilarious detours—including lucid dreaming, getting diagnosed with type 1 Diabetes, and the surprising history of TGI Fridays. With a mix of deep economic insight and offbeat humor, this episode is both an informative and entertaining ride.

Previous episode on tariffs:

"Tariffs Never Make Something Better"

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Eric:

Eric is a practicing labor economist, who currently works as a chief financial officer for the city of Quincy, Ma. His area of research focuses primarily on small business and macroeconomics trends. Eric has a special interest in historical economics, cliometrics and steers clear of ideological hardlines, preferring to use empirical analysis in his appearances.

theinformaleconomist.com

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Bear:

Bear made the transition from investing to trading at the beginning of COVID. After initial success with options, he quickly learned that his luck was greater than his skill and shifted his focus to futures. Bear has fully embraced the role of emotions and mental capital with the mindset that trading futures is purely an internal struggle that rewards patience, calm, bravery, focus, passion, and commitment. Beyond markets Bear finds joy in his community as a volunteer firefighter and EMT.

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