The Trump effect: Steel tariffs, Bitcoin surge, and the future of crypto in Japan and beyond

The Trump effect: Steel tariffs, Bitcoin surge, and the future of crypto in Japan and beyond

Global financial markets are navigating a complex landscape shaped by geopolitical tensions, domestic policy shifts, and the ever-evolving dynamics of technological innovation. President Donald Trump’s recent pledge to impose tariffs on all steel and aluminium imports has sent ripples through global markets, exacerbating already jittery sentiments about trade tensions.

This policy announcement, with broader economic indicators and the rise of cryptocurrency-related developments, presents a multifaceted scenario that demands careful analysis. As a journalist committed to rigorous research and factual reporting, I aim to unpack these developments, offering a comprehensive view of their implications while critically examining the narratives surrounding them.

President Trump’s announcement of a 25 per cent tariff on steel and aluminium imports has undoubtedly heightened global risk sentiment. This move, which Trump did not specify regarding its effective date, has added a layer of uncertainty to an already tense economic environment. Commodity currencies such as the Australian and Canadian dollars have felt the immediate impact, depreciating as markets react to the potential for escalated trade conflicts.

Similarly, Asian equities have experienced declines, reflecting broader concerns about the ripple effects of these tariffs on global supply chains and economic stability. The timing of this announcement, just before Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell’s semiannual congressional testimony, further amplifies its significance as investors and policymakers alike scrutinise the potential monetary policy responses to these trade developments.

In the United States, financial markets have responded with caution and resilience. The MSCI US index edged lower by 0.9 per cent, with the Energy sector outperforming despite broader market declines. This resilience in the Energy sector can be attributed to relatively stable oil prices, with Brent crude hovering around US$75 per barrel, even as markets weigh the implications of the new tariffs.

Meanwhile, US Treasury yields have risen, with the 10-year yield increasing by 6.1 basis points to 4.49 per cent and the two year yield climbing by 7.8 basis points to 4.29 per cent. These movements suggest a market expectation of tighter monetary policy or heightened inflationary pressures, possibly in response to the tariffs. The US Dollar Index has held firm, gaining 0.3 per cent, while gold prices continue their upward momentum, approaching US$2,900 per ounce, as investors seek safe-haven assets amid uncertainty.

Across the Pacific, Asian equities have displayed a mixed performance, with early trading reflecting the cautious sentiment pervasive in global markets. However, US equity index futures suggest a modestly optimistic opening, implying a 0.3 per cent higher start for US stocks. This divergence highlights the nuanced reactions across different markets, shaped by local economic conditions and the varying degrees of exposure to US trade policies.

In Singapore, for instance, DBS Group Holdings Ltd. shares reached a record high, buoyed by the announcement of an investor payout plan. This development underscores the resilience of certain financial institutions in Southeast Asia, even as broader market sentiments remain tentative.

Markets on edge as jobs data, currency shifts, and crypto milestones shape the week

Amid these traditional financial market dynamics, the cryptocurrency space has emerged as a significant focal point, particularly in Asia. The Korea Exchange chairman’s push for the adoption of cryptocurrency exchange-traded funds (ETFs) reflects a growing recognition of digital assets as a potential driver of market growth.

South Korea, a nation known for its technological innovation and significant cryptocurrency adoption, stands at a critical juncture. Embracing crypto ETFs could position the country as a leader in this burgeoning financial sector, potentially attracting substantial foreign investment and fostering innovation. However, this move also carries risks, including regulatory challenges and the inherent volatility of digital assets, which could undermine financial stability if not managed carefully.

The meteoric rise of Metaplanet Inc., a Japanese company that has pivoted from hotel management to Bitcoin investment, exemplifies the transformative potential of cryptocurrencies. Shares of Metaplanet have soared by over 4,000 per cent in the past year, making it the top-performing stock among Japanese equities and one of the highest globally. This extraordinary performance is largely attributed to the ripple effects of President Trump’s pro-crypto agenda, which has fuelled a surge in Bitcoin demand in Japan.

Metaplanet’s strategic shift to adopting Bitcoin as a primary treasury reserve asset, inspired by the playbook of MicroStrategy’s Michael Saylor, has resonated with investors, particularly in a context where traditional financial assets are facing heightened uncertainty. The company’s ambitious plans to acquire 21,000 Bitcoin by 2026, supported by a US$745 million capital raise, further underscore its commitment to this strategy, positioning it as a potential leader in Asia’s cryptocurrency landscape.

However, this rapid ascent is not without its complexities. The volatility of Bitcoin, which recently hit a record high of US$109,241 before partially retracing, poses significant risks for companies like Metaplanet. Moreover, the high capital gains taxes on direct Bitcoin purchases in Japan—up to 55 per cent—make investing in stock proxies like Metaplanet an attractive alternative for small-scale and first-time buyers, particularly through programs like the Nippon Individual Savings Account. This tax structure, combined with the broader market dynamics influenced by Trump’s trade policies, creates a unique environment where investors navigate traditional and digital asset markets with heightened caution.

President Trump’s apparent obsession with cryptocurrencies, evidenced by his administration’s pro-crypto stance, has broader implications for global financial markets. Some analysts argue that Trump’s pledge to overhaul US financial regulations could present opportunities for the UK to lead in the crypto space in the United Kingdom. With its robust financial infrastructure and history of regulatory innovation, the UK is well-positioned to capitalise on any shifts in US policy that might create regulatory gaps or opportunities.

However, this optimism must be tempered by critically examining the challenges involved, including the need for robust regulatory frameworks to protect investors and ensure market stability. The UK’s ability to lead in this space will depend on its capacity to balance innovation with prudent oversight, a task made more complex by the global nature of cryptocurrency markets.

The new norm: Stabilising global risk sentiment in a volatile market

From my perspective, the interplay between traditional financial markets and the cryptocurrency sector underscores a broader shift in the global economic landscape. President Trump’s tariffs on steel and aluminium, while aimed at protecting domestic industries, risk exacerbating global trade tensions and economic uncertainty.

This uncertainty, in turn, drives investors toward alternative assets like gold and Bitcoin, which are perceived as hedges against traditional market volatility. However, the rapid rise of companies like Metaplanet and the push for crypto ETFs in South Korea highlights the transformative potential of digital assets, even as they introduce new risks and regulatory challenges.

Critically examining the establishment narrative, it is essential to recognise that the enthusiasm for cryptocurrencies, particularly in the context of Trump’s policies, is not without its pitfalls. The volatility of digital assets, the potential for regulatory overreach, and the risk of market manipulation are significant concerns that must be addressed.

Moreover, the reliance on Bitcoin as a treasury reserve asset, as seen with Metaplanet, raises questions about long-term sustainability and the broader implications for corporate governance and financial stability. While the allure of high returns is undeniable, the risks associated with such strategies cannot be overlooked.

In conclusion, the current global financial landscape is a tapestry of interconnected developments, from traditional trade policies and market dynamics to the disruptive potential of cryptocurrencies. President Trump’s tariffs on steel and aluminium have heightened global risk sentiment, driving investors toward safe-haven assets and alternative investments like Bitcoin.

Meanwhile, the rise of Metaplanet in Japan and the push for crypto ETFs in South Korea reflect the growing influence of digital assets in shaping economic strategies. As these trends unfold, policymakers, investors, and journalists alike must approach them with a critical eye, balancing optimism with a rigorous assessment of the risks and opportunities they present.

The future of global finance will likely be defined by how effectively we navigate these complexities, ensuring that innovation is harnessed responsibly and sustainably.

 

Source: https://e27.co/the-trump-effect-steel-tariffs-bitcoin-surge-and-the-future-of-crypto-in-japan-and-beyond-20250210/

 

Anndy Lian is an early blockchain adopter and experienced serial entrepreneur who is known for his work in the government sector. He is a best selling book author- “NFT: From Zero to Hero” and “Blockchain Revolution 2030”.

Currently, he is appointed as the Chief Digital Advisor at Mongolia Productivity Organization, championing national digitization. Prior to his current appointments, he was the Chairman of BigONE Exchange, a global top 30 ranked crypto spot exchange and was also the Advisory Board Member for Hyundai DAC, the blockchain arm of South Korea’s largest car manufacturer Hyundai Motor Group. Lian played a pivotal role as the Blockchain Advisor for Asian Productivity Organisation (APO), an intergovernmental organization committed to improving productivity in the Asia-Pacific region.

An avid supporter of incubating start-ups, Anndy has also been a private investor for the past eight years. With a growth investment mindset, Anndy strategically demonstrates this in the companies he chooses to be involved with. He believes that what he is doing through blockchain technology currently will revolutionise and redefine traditional businesses. He also believes that the blockchain industry has to be “redecentralised”.

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Bitcoin Set to Rise Beyond $70,000 in ‘Coming Weeks,’ Experts Say

Bitcoin Set to Rise Beyond $70,000 in ‘Coming Weeks,’ Experts Say

Bitcoin’s price surge shows no signs of slowing down, with some predicting a breach of the $70,000 price tag in the coming weeks.

The world’s largest crypto is currently trading at over $67,600 after swelling to highs not seen since the beginning of August, CoinGecko data shows.

Yet is the current rally sustainable?

According to Jonathan de Wet, chief investment officer at Zerocap, Bitcoin’s upward momentum remains robust, he opined in an investor note on Wednesday.

 “We see [Bitcoin] at $70,000 in the coming weeks,” de Wet stated, pointing to a technical breakout providing a solid foundation for further gains.

Several tailwinds are beginning to converge, including political developments in the U.S., fueling optimism over favorable policy geared toward the crypto industry.

Republican nominee and former President Donald Trump has vowed to make the U.S. the world’s crypto capital, alongside protecting users’ right to custody their assets.

Democratic nominee and current Vice President Kamala Harris, meanwhile, has promised to create rules of the road for crypto while attempting to foster innovation.

Trump’s plans to create a Bitcoin reserve could mark a turning point for crypto regulation, Anndy Lian, an intergovernmental blockchain expert, told Decrypt.

“This political backing could lead to a more favorable regulatory environment, boosting investor confidence and demand,” Lian said.

Lian believes Bitcoin will reach its all-time high next week, driven by global monetary policies, including extensive rate cuts by major central banks that could boost risk assets, including crypto.

Still, questions linger over China’s economic strife, de Wet said, which includes soaring local government debt, slow growth, and weak demand for goods and services.

The world’s second-largest economy has vowed to inject hundreds of billions of dollars through stimulus measures to kickstart its stock market and spur demand.

There’s also concerns surrounding geopolitical tensions in the Middle East as the region remains a dominate player in energy production and trade suppy chains.

However, traders have nothing to fear from that end if BitMex co-founder Arthur Hayes’ musings turn out to be right.

 

Source: https://decrypt.co/286814/bitcoin-rise-beyond-70000-coming-weeks-experts-say

Anndy Lian is an early blockchain adopter and experienced serial entrepreneur who is known for his work in the government sector. He is a best selling book author- “NFT: From Zero to Hero” and “Blockchain Revolution 2030”.

Currently, he is appointed as the Chief Digital Advisor at Mongolia Productivity Organization, championing national digitization. Prior to his current appointments, he was the Chairman of BigONE Exchange, a global top 30 ranked crypto spot exchange and was also the Advisory Board Member for Hyundai DAC, the blockchain arm of South Korea’s largest car manufacturer Hyundai Motor Group. Lian played a pivotal role as the Blockchain Advisor for Asian Productivity Organisation (APO), an intergovernmental organization committed to improving productivity in the Asia-Pacific region.

An avid supporter of incubating start-ups, Anndy has also been a private investor for the past eight years. With a growth investment mindset, Anndy strategically demonstrates this in the companies he chooses to be involved with. He believes that what he is doing through blockchain technology currently will revolutionise and redefine traditional businesses. He also believes that the blockchain industry has to be “redecentralised”.

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Shaping the Future of DevPortals: A Think Tank on Decentralization, AI, and Beyond

Shaping the Future of DevPortals: A Think Tank on Decentralization, AI, and Beyond

The digital landscape is rapidly evolving, reshaping how we build, deploy, and interact with software. At the forefront of this revolution are DevPortals, the unsung heroes that empower developers to build the future.

But What Are Developer Portals?

Blockchain Developer Portals (DevPortals) are specialized platforms designed to provide developers with the necessary resources, documentation, and tools to interact with blockchain networks and build decentralized applications (dApps). These portals play a critical role in the blockchain ecosystem by enabling developers to integrate blockchain functionalities into their applications, deploy smart contracts, and interact with various blockchain networks.

Ethereum, Polkadot, Solana, Binance Smart Chain (BSC), and Cardano are just a few of the popular blockchain networks that had their own dedicated DevPortals. Ethereum, for example, had been a cornerstone for dApp developers, offering extensive resources on smart contract languages like Solidity and tools like Truffle. Solana, on the other hand, gained traction due to its emphasis on high-speed transactions and low fees, making it ideal for DeFi applications. Polkadot’s Developer Hub stood out for its focus on interoperability, providing guidance on building parachains and custom blockchains using Substrate.

And, very recently, Shiba Inu’s Layer 2 scalability solution Shibarium joined the ranks of these innovative platforms with the launch of the ShibDev portal.

To explore the future of these crucial platforms, we’ve assembled a panel of industry luminaries. Anndy Lian, a pioneer in intergovernmental blockchain, joins forces with the forward-thinking team at Unification, and Mikko Ohtamaa, co-founder of TradingProtocol. Together, they’ll delve into the transformative potential of decentralized technologies, AI, and the metaverse.

From secure and transparent collaboration to personalized AI assistance, these experts envision a future where DevPortals are more than just repositories of code. They’ll become dynamic ecosystems that empower developers to build faster, smarter, and more inclusively.

In this Alpha Insights, we look into the challenges, opportunities, and ethical considerations that lie ahead. By understanding the future of DevPortals, we can pave the way for a new era of innovation and accessibility for all.

Decentralization: Building Trust, One Block at a Time

Lian believes that blockchain technology holds the key to unlocking a new level of trust and transparency in developer portals. “Imagine a world where every contribution is immutably recorded, and ownership is clearly defined,” he said. By leveraging blockchain’s inherent security features, developer portals can become secure havens for valuable code and data.

However, Lian acknowledged that decentralization presents its own set of hurdles. Scalability – the ability to handle a growing number of users and projects – remains a key concern. Governance, too, requires careful consideration. Decentralized models, while empowering, must be designed to prevent malicious actors from hijacking the platform.

AI: The Personalized Tutor and the Ethical Tightrope

The Unification team envisioned a future where AI assistants become indispensable companions for developers. “AI can go far beyond code suggestions,” they explained. “Imagine an AI that predicts the environmental impact of your code and suggests optimizations.” This level of personalized assistance could significantly accelerate the development process.

But Lian cautioned that the integration of AI must be approached with ethical awareness. “AI algorithms can inherit and amplify existing biases,” he warned. He highlighted that transparency in how AI makes decisions and user consent in data collection are crucial to building trust.

Interoperability: Bridging the Islands of Code

Lian advocates for open standards and protocols to enable seamless integration between different developer portals. “Think of it like building bridges between islands,” he said. This interoperability would allow developers to move freely between platforms, accessing a wealth of resources and expertise.

However, challenges like vendor lock-in and differing technical architectures must be addressed. Lian believes that a commitment to open standards and the development of adapter layers can pave the way for a truly interconnected developer ecosystem.

The Metaverse: From Virtual Hangouts to Revenue Generators

Lian sees the metaverse as more than just a place for developers to socialize. He envisioned immersive environments where developers can collaborate on debugging in real-time, manipulating 3D data structures with their hands.

Furthermore, the metaverse could unlock new revenue streams for developer portals. Virtual marketplaces for code libraries and tools, and even virtual conferences and hackathons, could generate income for both the platform and its users.

Accessibility and Inclusivity: Building a Welcoming Space for All

Lian emphasized the importance of designing developer portals that are accessible to everyone, regardless of disability. Screen reader compatibility, keyboard navigation, and adjustable font sizes are just some of the features that can make a difference.

The Unification team stressed that accessibility should not be an afterthought. “It should be baked into the initial requirements from the very beginning,” they argue. They advocate for close collaboration with diverse communities to ensure that developer portals are truly inclusive.

Emerging Technologies: Adapting to Stay Ahead

Lian believes that emerging technologies like quantum computing and augmented reality will reshape the development landscape. Developer portals must adapt by providing educational resources, investing in robust infrastructure, and implementing strong security measures.

Ohtamaa, however, offers a reminder that human expertise remains paramount. “No technology can replace the need for high-quality senior developers to craft these portals,” he says.

A Collaborative Future

The future of DevPortals is bright, but it requires a concerted effort to address the challenges and seize the opportunities. By embracing decentralization, AI, and the metaverse, while prioritizing accessibility and inclusivity, DevPortals can become powerful engines of innovation and collaboration.

As the digital landscape continues to evolve, DevPortals will play a crucial role in empowering developers to build a better future. By providing the tools, resources, and community support they need, these platforms can foster creativity, collaboration, and the development of groundbreaking applications.

Want to dive deeper into the future of DevPortals? Read the full interviews at the links below.

Shaping the Future of DevPortals: An Exclusive Interview with Anndy Lian

The Future of DevPortals: An Exclusive Interview with Unification

About the Experts

Anndy Lian is a global blockchain strategist and thought leader. As an early adopter and investor, he has played pivotal roles in shaping the industry through advisory work with governments, corporations, and international organizations. His expertise is reflected in his books, Blockchain Revolution 2030 and NFT: From Zero to Hero. Currently leading digital transformation in Mongolia, Lian’s impact spans from cryptocurrency exchanges to automotive giants.

Unification (FUND) is a hybrid blockchain pioneering Web3 accessibility. It empowers both traditional enterprises and dApp developers by providing a user-friendly platform and open-source tools. It focuses on decentralization, rapid deployability, and multi-chain compatibility. We’re committed to bridging the gap between Web2 and Web3, making the decentralized world more accessible to everyone.

Mikko Ohtamaa is a seasoned blockchain expert with over 25 years of experience in software development. He has held CTO positions at numerous fintech companies and co-founded TokenMarket, a successful blockchain fundraising platform. As an early adopter of Ethereum, Mikko has deep expertise in Solidity development and auditing.

Mikko now leverages his experience to advise blockchain startups and conduct technical due diligence for DeFi projects. His extensive knowledge and hands-on experience make him a valuable asset to the industry.

 

Source: https://magazine.shib.io/article/66d86a7287c4c100015d5d7f

Anndy Lian is an early blockchain adopter and experienced serial entrepreneur who is known for his work in the government sector. He is a best selling book author- “NFT: From Zero to Hero” and “Blockchain Revolution 2030”.

Currently, he is appointed as the Chief Digital Advisor at Mongolia Productivity Organization, championing national digitization. Prior to his current appointments, he was the Chairman of BigONE Exchange, a global top 30 ranked crypto spot exchange and was also the Advisory Board Member for Hyundai DAC, the blockchain arm of South Korea’s largest car manufacturer Hyundai Motor Group. Lian played a pivotal role as the Blockchain Advisor for Asian Productivity Organisation (APO), an intergovernmental organization committed to improving productivity in the Asia-Pacific region.

An avid supporter of incubating start-ups, Anndy has also been a private investor for the past eight years. With a growth investment mindset, Anndy strategically demonstrates this in the companies he chooses to be involved with. He believes that what he is doing through blockchain technology currently will revolutionise and redefine traditional businesses. He also believes that the blockchain industry has to be “redecentralised”.

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