Crypto Markets React to U.S. Tariffs, Circle IPO, and Global Regulatory Shifts

Tariff Tensions and U.S. Strategy Spark Market Fluctuations

Cryptocurrency markets are experiencing renewed volatility as geopolitical and institutional forces shape the digital asset landscape. The latest spark came from U.S. President Donald Trump’s sweeping new tariffs on global imports, which unsettled broader financial markets and reverberated across crypto trading platforms.

Bitcoin and Ethereum both saw significant price swings following the announcement, with many investors interpreting the tariffs as an inflationary threat that could drive long-term crypto demand. Additionally, Trump announced a controversial move to include Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), XRP, Solana (SOL), and Cardano (ADA) in a new U.S. strategic reserve—a symbolic gesture that some see as elevating digital assets to national interest status. This development alone triggered a double-digit rally in Bitcoin and Ether. (Reuters)

As geopolitical uncertainty rises, digital assets are increasingly viewed as a hedge against fiat instability and centralized monetary policy. However, the market remains highly sensitive to regulation and institutional news.

Circle’s IPO, SEC Settlements, and Global Crypto Policy Shifts

In the U.S., Circle Internet Group, the issuer of the stablecoin USDC, filed to go public on the New York Stock Exchange. The IPO filing revealed the company generated $1.68 billion in revenue last year, an increase from $1.45 billion in 2023. This is Circle’s second attempt at going public following a scrapped $9 billion SPAC deal. The move is seen as a vote of confidence in the future of regulated stablecoins amid growing competition and scrutiny. (Reuters)

Meanwhile, Gemini Trust and the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) are reportedly working toward resolving a lawsuit over the Gemini Earn program. Both parties have requested a 60-day pause to explore settlement terms—potentially easing pressure on the broader DeFi ecosystem.

Regulatory winds are also shifting internationally. Japan’s Financial Services Agency is planning to recognize cryptocurrencies as official financial instruments under existing market laws, including applying insider trading regulations to crypto trades. This move would elevate digital assets to a new level of market legitimacy.

Russia’s central bank, previously a strong critic of crypto, has proposed allowing “specially qualified” wealthy investors to gain regulated access to crypto markets—a dramatic policy shift meant to tap into a growing financial sector while maintaining state oversight.

In the U.S., the FDIC has loosened restrictions on banks engaging in crypto activities. Previously, banks required prior approval to offer crypto services. Now, they may proceed without advance permission, provided they effectively manage associated risks.