Trump’s Tariffs Send Shockwaves Through Global Economy
April 7, 2025 — Asian stock markets crashed on Monday. The drop followed U.S. President Donald Trump’s announcement of sweeping new tariffs. The financial shock spread fast. Oil prices have been adding to global panic.
Markets Dive Across Asia
At the opening bell, markets turned red. The panic selling kicked in soon in the market. Japan’s Nikkei 225 sank 6.3%. Hong Kong’s Hang Seng Index plunged 9.8%. Taiwan’s index dropped nearly 10%. Singapore fell 8.5%. The losses from last week deepened, and volatility surged in the whole market.
Tariffs Trigger the Slide Trump’s new tariffs hit nearly all U.S. imports with a 10% base rate. About 60 countries face higher penalties. Bangladesh is among them. These measures take effect at midnight on April 9.
Investors Flee Risk
Global investors reacted fast. Many pulled out of risk assets. They fear worsening U.S.-China tensions and a global slowdown. Financial giants took damage. HSBC and Standard Chartered, big players in Asia, saw steep drops in their Hong Kong shares.
Oil Prices Collapse – Commodity markets didn’t escape the chaos. Crude oil prices fell sharply. WTI dropped to $60 per barrel. Brent fell to $63. Traders worry tariffs will crush demand, especially in Asia and the U.S.
Wall Street Wobbles – U.S. futures pointed to more trouble. Markets in the West may soon mirror Asia’s losses. Investors are especially watching tech and manufacturing stocks. These sectors rely on global supply chains now at risk.
Trump Doubles Down
Trump defended his strategy on Sunday night. “I don’t control the stock market,” he said. “But tough medicine fixes what’s broken.” He blamed Biden’s administration for letting other nations take advantage of the U.S. Trump vowed to restore balance and “Make America Great Again.”
Bangladesh Feels the Heat
Bangladesh faces new tariffs under Trump’s revised rules. Countries that overcharge U.S. imports now face a 50% tariff in return. For Bangladesh, a major garment exporter, the move could hurt exports and slow growth.
Critics Sound the Alarm – World leaders quickly condemned the move. China warned of “severe consequences.” The EU plans to reevaluate its trade policies. The IMF urged calm and called for dialogue.
Outlook Remains Uncertain
Markets face a stormy week. Stocks are down. Oil is sliding. Confidence is shaken. Analysts expect more volatility in the days ahead. Will Trump’s strategy fix trade? Or will it trigger deeper global damage? For now, the world watches—and braces for impact.