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Trump's Tariffs Ignite Global Pressure – VanEck Identifies Bitcoin as a Beneficiary of Geopolitical Tensions
On April 2, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump announced reciprocal tariffs on 180 countries, sparking new global tensions. This development has simultaneously reignited interest in Bitcoin as a strategic asset. According to Matthew Sigel, Head of Digital Assets at asset manager VanEck, these tariffs could position Bitcoin at the center of a multipolar financial system.
“The tariffs are not just an economic story – they could be a catalyst for Bitcoin's role in a new global order,” Sigel stated in a client note dated April 4.
Following the announcement, Bitcoin briefly dropped to approximately $81,000 but quickly stabilized, demonstrating resilience compared to traditional stock markets. Sigel attributes this to Bitcoin's neutrality during politically charged times. He further explained that while slower economic growth alone is not bullish for Bitcoin, the monetary policy response to such conditions often is. If the tariffs negatively impact GDP without triggering a new wave of inflation, the U.S. Federal Reserve may have room to lower interest rates, a scenario historically favorable for Bitcoin.
| Key Developments | Impact on Bitcoin |
|---|---|
| New U.S. tariffs on 180 countries | Increased interest in Bitcoin as a neutral asset |
| Potential Federal Reserve rate cuts | Historically bullish for Bitcoin |
Summary: Trump's tariffs could accelerate Bitcoin's adoption as a neutral and decentralized financial system, especially in a politically polarized global economy.
Global Adoption of Bitcoin in Trade and Energy
Sigel highlighted several global trends showcasing Bitcoin's increasing use in real-world trade. For instance, China and Russia have reportedly conducted initial energy transactions using Bitcoin and other digital assets, signaling a shift away from the dollar-based system. Similarly, Bolivia has announced plans to pay for energy imports with cryptocurrencies to address foreign exchange shortages. In France, the state-owned energy provider EDF is exploring the monetization of surplus energy through Bitcoin mining instead of exporting it cheaply to Germany.
“These are no longer theoretical scenarios – we are witnessing monetary realignment in real-time,” Sigel emphasized.
- China and Russia: Initial energy transactions in Bitcoin and digital assets.
- Bolivia: Plans to use cryptocurrencies for energy imports.
- France (EDF): Considering Bitcoin mining to utilize surplus energy.
Sigel believes that Trump's tariffs could further pressure nations to explore alternatives to the U.S.-dominated financial system, with Bitcoin emerging as a viable option.
Summary: Countries like China, Russia, and Bolivia are increasingly integrating Bitcoin into trade and energy sectors, signaling a shift in global monetary practices.
Institutional Interest and Market Dynamics
Sigel advises investors to closely monitor the U.S. Dollar Index (DXY) and U.S. monetary policy. Should the Federal Reserve adopt a more dovish stance under economic pressure, Bitcoin could gain additional momentum. In 2025, U.S.-based Bitcoin spot ETFs have already attracted approximately $600 million in inflows, reflecting growing institutional interest. Additionally, increased on-chain activity and rising ETF volumes further underscore Bitcoin's expanding role in the financial ecosystem.
| Indicator | Current Status |
|---|---|
| Bitcoin Spot ETF Inflows (2025) | $600 million |
| On-Chain Activity | Increasing |
| Institutional Interest | Growing |
Summary: Institutional interest in Bitcoin is on the rise, with significant ETF inflows and increased on-chain activity pointing to its growing acceptance as a financial asset.
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