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Highlights
- $6.5 trillion surge follows Trump’s unexpected tariff pause
- Trump-linked (NASDAQ:DJT) surges 22.7% amid confusion over social media post
- Markets brace for continued volatility despite temporary tariff truce
Financial markets experienced an extraordinary turnaround after former U.S. President Donald Trump made a surprise announcement pausing most of his proposed tariffs for 90 days. This move came just hours after Trump posted a cryptic message on his social media platform suggesting that it was a “great time to buy,” signing off with "DJT" — the same ticker as his media company, Trump Media & Technology Group (NASDAQ:DJT).
The market response was immediate and significant. U.S. equities soared 9.5% in a single session, adding a staggering $6.5 trillion in value — the most robust rally since the Global Financial Crisis. The gains reversed about 70% of losses accumulated over the prior four trading sessions, offering temporary relief to jittery investors.
Amid the broader market surge, Trump Media & Technology Group (NASDAQ:DJT) saw its stock skyrocket by 22.7%, doubling the performance of major indices. With Trump holding a 53% stake in the company — now managed in a trust by his son, Donald Trump Jr. — the value of that position surged by approximately $671 million. Despite the company reporting a $650 million loss last year, the stock's performance was propelled by increased visibility and trading activity on its platform, Truth Social.
While the White House dismissed suggestions of market manipulation, questions lingered. Trump’s timing, vague messaging, and financial interest in a publicly traded company he directly referenced have sparked widespread speculation. Some observers argued it bordered on insider activity, though technically the message was made publicly.
Compounding the intrigue, Trump indicated that his decision to halt tariffs was influenced more by media appearances and market sentiment than by official briefings. His remarks highlighted the impact of bond market volatility, calling it “tricky” but “beautiful” after recent movements. This raises further questions about decision-making processes that have such sweeping global financial implications.
Despite the temporary easing of tensions, underlying trade disputes — particularly between the U.S. and China — remain unresolved. The 90-day pause merely delays the impact of escalating tariffs, including a universal 10% rate affecting most trade partners. Countries like Australia, which are already subject to these tariffs despite a trade surplus with the U.S., may find the negotiations increasingly frustrating.
With global trade talks still hanging in the balance and inflationary pressures mounting, the current calm in markets might prove to be short-lived.
