Exposing Trump’s Market Manipulation and Its Impact on the Crypto Market
2025-04-15
Former U.S. President Donald Trump has recently come under scrutiny once again, this time for allegedly manipulating the market through a post on social media.
His statement, THIS IS A GREAT TIME TO BUY!!! DJT on Truth Social, followed by a surprising decision to delay trade tariffs, triggered a massive surge in global stock markets. This sparked widespread speculation about potential market manipulation and insider trading.
What Happened: Exposing Trump’s Market Manipulation
On Wednesday morning, just after the U.S. market opened, Trump posted on Truth Social, declaring it was the perfect time to buy. Shortly after, he announced a 90-day delay on additional trade tariffs—except for those targeting China.
The effects were immediate and dramatic:
- The S&P 500 rose over 9%
- The Nasdaq surged by 12%
- Japan’s Nikkei 225 gained 9%
- The UK’s FTSE 100 climbed 4%
- Trump Media & Technology Group shares jumped 22%
Also Read: Rumours Spreading on Trump's 90-Day Tariff Pause
Allegations of Market Manipulation
Many believe there was a manipulative intent behind Trump’s post. Democratic Senator Adam Schiff called for an investigation into possible insider trading, pointing out that such sudden policy shifts could give certain individuals unethical advantages.
Senator Chris Murphy even labeled it as a “developing insider trading scandal,” while Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez called for full transparency from members of Congress regarding any stock purchases made within the last 24 hours.
Impact on the Crypto Market
Although headlines mainly focused on the stock market, the crypto market also saw significant effects. As investors sought alternatives amid potential geopolitical instability, assets like Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH) also saw notable price increases.
Investors capitalized on the volatility by turning to crypto markets, especially when traditional markets became unpredictable. This shows that Trump’s comments—though directed at the stock market—had a broad psychological effect, extending to digital assets.
Government Response and Public Opinion
The White House defended Trump’s actions, calling them part of his negotiation strategy from The Art of the Deal. However, this did little to calm public suspicion.
Many argue that if anyone profited using privileged information, it would be a serious breach of ethical and legal market standards.
What Could Regulation Do?
This case underscores the need for stronger regulations concerning:
- Trading by public officials
- Transparency of stock transactions by government members
- Misuse of social media to signal market moves
The demand for banning insider trading among public officials is growing stronger. If ignored, it could erode public trust in the economic and financial system.
Also Read: Trump's Crypto Reserve Plan Ignites Market Rally
Stock Market Volatility as a Golden Opportunity
In recent weeks, global stock markets have shown sharp fluctuations. But for some investors, this volatility is seen as a golden opportunity to buy stocks at discounted prices. One such example is Marjorie Taylor Greene, a Republican representative from Georgia and a close Trump ally.
Stock Volatility Triggers Buying Signal
Greene disclosed several stock purchases on April 3 and 4, shortly after the market plummeted following Trump’s tariff announcement. Among the stocks she bought were Amazon and Apple—two U.S. tech giants that later surged by 12% and 15% respectively the following Wednesday.
The Trigger: Trump’s Tariff Policy
Trump’s new tariffs announced on April 2 were the main cause of the market turmoil. He introduced a “Liberation Day” plan to increase import tariffs on several countries, including China—the world’s second-largest economy.
Although some tariffs were eventually postponed, Trump continued to apply pressure on China. U.S. import tariffs on Chinese goods were raised to 125%, up from the previous 104%. In retaliation, Beijing imposed counter-tariffs of 84% on various U.S. imports starting Thursday.
Smart Investors Seize Opportunities Amid Uncertainty
Greene’s actions reflect a classic investment strategy: “buy the dip”—buying when prices drop sharply with the expectation of a rebound. The significant gains in Apple and Amazon stock show that this strategy can yield quick profits, especially in fundamentally strong sectors like tech.
Savvy investors who understand geopolitical dynamics and their effects on global markets often use such moments to enter while others panic.
Global Impact of U.S.–China Tariffs
Trade tensions between the U.S. and China are nothing new, but tariff hikes of this magnitude are rare. A 125% tariff from the U.S. and an 84% counter from China could lead to:
- Rising consumer goods prices
- Decline in exports and imports
- Disruption of global supply chains
- Increased uncertainty for investors and businesses
Yet on the flip side, such conditions can offer opportunities for investors who can analyze company fundamentals and long-term trends.
FAQ
What is market manipulation?
Market manipulation refers to actions intended to create a false or misleading impression of the price, demand, or supply of a financial asset—usually for personal gain.
Is Trump’s social media statement illegal?
This can’t be determined without further investigation. However, if anyone profited from the information before it was officially released, it could be classified as insider trading.
How did this affect the crypto market?
Crypto markets rose as investors sought alternative assets amid uncertainty over U.S. economic policies. Concerns over manipulation in traditional markets also drove interest toward decentralized assets like Bitcoin.
What are the U.S. government’s next steps?
There are growing calls for a thorough investigation. Some lawmakers are also proposing major reforms in market regulations and greater transparency in public officials' transactions.
Disclaimer: The content of this article does not constitute financial or investment advice.
