President Donald Trump would seem to have a distinct advantage going into his upcoming negotiations with Chinese leader Xi Jinping.

Economy: America’s economy is growing strong, boosted by AI and consumer spending. China’s overall growth remains robust, but its economy is struggling with challenges stemming from its housing collapse five years ago. ✔️ USA

Jobs: US companies are hiring, and unemployment remains low. China’s real estate crisis slammed the brakes on residential construction, evaporating jobs. ✔️ USA

Spending and inflation: American consumers keep spending, even as inflation rebounds (but nowhere close to where it was four years ago). Consumer spending in China is still running soft, and prices are only starting to bounce back from prolonged deflation, a worrisome economic trend that sends prices and paychecks falling. ✔️ USA

Energy prices: The United States, with its vast oil and gas resources, is much more insulated from the economic effects of the Iran war than most countries. As a major energy importer, China is more vulnerable to oil price shocks even with a healthy buffer of crude stockpiles. ✔️ USA