15% vs 18% tariff: Are investors still on edge? Expert answers

Markets are once again facing uncertainty just when investors were hoping for clarity on the tariff issue, says market expert Sharmila Joshi.

Speaking about the recent developments, Joshi said it was “kind of ironic” that after discussions around an 18% tariff and signs of agreement, fresh doubts have emerged. Quoting a famous movie line, she said, “Picture abhi baaki hai.” She added, “We don’t know how the president is going to react or what steps are going to be taken next.” According to her, this has brought uncertainty back into the market at a time when investors were beginning to feel settled.

At the same time, she struck a mildly positive note. “15% is still lower than 18%,” she said, suggesting that the mood is not entirely negative. She advised investors to return to basics and focus on quality companies. “Look at stocks you like, where numbers are growing and businesses have something going for them,” she said, adding that large-cap names and select FMCG companies could offer relative comfort.

On artificial intelligence (AI), Joshi said the recent summit has made AI a central theme in business discussions. However, she cautioned investors on IT stocks. “Trade with caution,” she said. “See how much of their business is really AI-focused and how they are positioning themselves.”

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