• President Trump signals a deal is likely, citing progress in talks.
  • Key details remain under wraps, but the scope spans trade and tariffs.
  • Markets respond cautiously, with investors awaiting formal confirmation.

Trump: ‘We Will Most Likely Sign a Deal’

President Donald Trump said Thursday that the U.S. is “most likely” to reach an agreement with counterparties, offering the strongest signal yet that weeks of negotiations are nearing a conclusion. Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump described the talks as “productive” but declined to specify the deal’s full scope. According to people familiar with the matter, the discussions have centered on tariff reductions and market access, though the final text has not been released.

“We’re very close,” Trump said. “I think we’ll get it done.” The White House did not respond to requests for additional comment by press time.

The announcement sent mixed signals through financial markets. The S&P 500 edged up 0.3% in afternoon trading, while the yield on the 10-year Treasury note hovered near 4.2%, reflecting cautious optimism. Analysts noted that a deal could relieve pressure on supply chains and curb inflation, but warned that any agreement would face scrutiny from both parties in Congress.

“This is a pivotal moment,” said a senior trade analyst at a Washington-based consultancy. “If the deal is as broad as hinted, it could reshape trade flows for years. But if it’s narrowly focused, markets may be disappointed.”

Negotiators have been racing against a self-imposed deadline, with sources indicating that a formal signing could occur as early as next week. Political hurdles remain, however. Several lawmakers have already expressed skepticism, demanding full transparency before any ratification vote.

The economic stakes are high. A preliminary analysis suggests that a deal could boost GDP growth by 0.5 percentage points over the next two years, according to economists at a major investment bank. Conversely, failure to reach an agreement would likely trigger renewed volatility, particularly in sectors sensitive to trade policy, such as agriculture and manufacturing.

Background and Implications

Trump’s latest comments mark a shift in tone from earlier this month, when he warned that talks were “going nowhere.” The change appears driven by concessions on both sides, though specific terms remain confidential. Industry groups have largely welcomed the prospect of a deal, with the National Association of Manufacturers calling it “a step in the right direction.”

Looking ahead, the focus will now turn to the details. Investors are eager to see whether tariff rates will be rolled back or merely frozen, and whether enforcement mechanisms are included. Without a deal, the administration had threatened to escalate tariffs, which would have hammered consumer goods and industrial inputs.

Correction: An earlier version of this article incorrectly stated the timing of the potential signing. The correct timeline is next week, not this week.