Trump’s Tariff Announcement Sparks Crypto Market Volatility

Bitcoin and major altcoins faced sharp declines as U.S.-China tariff tensions escalated following Trump’s announcement of a 100% tariff on Chinese imports, effective November 2025.

The significant market correction shifted flows into stablecoins and safe-haven assets, highlighting the crypto market’s sensitivity to geopolitical tensions and macroeconomic uncertainties.

Trump’s 100% Tariff Fuels Crypto Market Decline

Former President Donald Trump announced a 100% import tariff from China, effective November 1, 2025. This move is a reaction to China’s new export controls. The announcement has led to a sharp cryptocurrency market decline, affecting not only Bitcoin but also major altcoins like Ethereum. Ripple effects also impacted stablecoin inflows.

“We will impose a 100 percent tariff on all Chinese imports effective November 1, 2025, in response to China’s extraordinarily hostile trade stance and new export restrictions.” – White House Statement

$7 Billion in Crypto Liquidations Amid Tariff Chaos

The tariff-led volatility caused over $7 billion in leveraged crypto liquidations and a large shift into stablecoin investments as safe havens. Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other major cryptocurrencies experienced double-digit price drops, highlighting the broad financial impact.

Historical Parallels: Comparing Today’s Market Shock

This market activity is being compared to past macro-market shocks, like the 2020 pandemic crash in terms of its intensity and cross-asset effects. Market experts suggest similar events demonstrate Layer 1 crypto assets are more susceptible to liquidity and macroeconomic disruptions, emphasizing historical vulnerabilities.