Trade Tensions Threaten Market Stability: ETF Strategies to Follow

Core Viewpoint - U.S. stocks may decline by up to 11% if trade tensions between the U.S. and China remain unresolved before the November deadline, driven by high valuations and investor exposure [1][4]. Trade Tensions and Market Impact - U.S. stocks experienced a sharp decline on October 10, 2025, following President Trump's threat of increased tariffs on Chinese goods, citing China's hostility due to new restrictions on rare earth metals [2]. - Beijing has implemented new export restrictions requiring foreign companies to obtain a license for shipping products with over 0.1% rare earth content, effective from December 1 [3]. Market Predictions - Morgan Stanley's chief U.S. equity strategist predicts that continued trade uncertainty could lead the S&P 500 index to fall between 5,800 and 6,027 points, representing an 8-11% decline from the previous close [4]. Investment Strategies - Dividend-paying stocks are recommended as they provide a steady income stream and can mitigate losses during market downturns, with companies known as dividend aristocrats being quality picks [6]. - High-quality dividend stocks, such as those in the Vanguard Dividend Appreciation ETF (VIG), are highlighted for their potential for income and capital appreciation [7]. - Gold is identified as a safe-haven asset, with SPDR Gold Trust (GLD) suggested for investors seeking stability [8]. - Covered call ETFs, like TappAlpha SPY Growth & Daily Income ETF (TSPY) and Global X S&P 500 Covered Call ETF (XYLD), are recommended for generating higher income and reducing volatility, with annual yields of 13.94% and 13.09% respectively [10]. - Low-volatility ETFs, such as iShares MSCI USA Min Vol Factor ETF (USMV) and Invesco S&P 500 Low Volatility ETF (SPLV), are suggested for their potential to outperform the broader market in uncertain environments [11][12]. - Defensive sectors, including consumer staples, utilities, and healthcare, are noted for their resilience to market volatility, with ETFs like Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR ETF (XLP) and Utilities Select Sector SPDR ETF (XLU) being recommended [13].