Trade tensions between United States and China escalate, shaking stock markets across America, Asia, and Europe. Fresh tariff impositions spark massive sell-offs, leaving investors rattled. World’s top 500 billionaires lose staggering $208 billion in single day, reflecting scale of economic turmoil.

Last Wednesday, US President Trump announces steep tariffs targeting nearly 100 countries. China, hit hardest, retaliates with equal counter-tariffs. Beijing’s swift response intensifies global market unrest. Wall Street records worst two-day plunge since COVID-19 pandemic, erasing $5 trillion in value. European stock indices drop 4% on average, while crude oil prices slump 8%.

International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Trade Organization (WTO) voice strong concerns. IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva warns sluggish global growth faces bigger risks from new tariffs. WTO predicts 1% decline in global trade by 2025 if tensions persist. Both organizations condemn US moves, urging rethink.

Despite criticism, Trump stands firm. “Tariff policy won’t change,” he declares, vowing to make America wealthier. He slams China’s counter-tariffs as “mistake,” doubling down on aggressive stance. US Customs agents begin collecting 10% duties on imports from multiple nations, adding fuel to fire.

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Market panic spreads fast. Investors, already jittery, see wealth vanish overnight. Analysts point to Trump administration’s unprecedented tariff hikes as trigger for chaos. Global economy, still fragile, braces for more shocks as trade war deepens.