Crypto: Why fear persists despite the USA-China tariff truce

In the crypto world, memories are stubborn. October 11 left its mark: 19 billion dollars gone in a few hours. Since then, even positive signals have had difficulty waking up the markets. Donald Trump and Xi Jinping are trying to play firefighter with a major tariff truce. But in this environment, we know too well their potential for explosion. Traders remain cautious, still short of breath.

Red October: when the memory of crashes paralyzes the market

Certain dates imprint themselves on minds like burns. On October 11, 2025, Donald Trump threatens to overtax China 100%. The crypto market collects: 19 billion liquidated in 24 hours.

Since then, the Crypto Fear & Greed Index remains frozen. He goes timidly from 33 to 37, but fear still dominates. Bitcoin hovers around $110,000, Ether around $3,900. Nothing reassuring.

For some, like Michael van de Poppe, this kind of crash represents a low. Yet investors remain on the defensive. Confidence is eroded, altcoins are dragging. Resilience moves backwards. Even with the calmer air, no one is jumping on the bull run bandwagon. Too early, too risky.

Trump-Xi truce: promises galore, head full of doubts

The agreement signed between Donald Trump and Xi Jinping represents a turning point: lifting of measures against rare metals, massive purchases of American soybeans, suspension of controls on key sectors. Enough, on paper, to boost the global economy and the crypto industry.

But crypto operators are not fooled. They know that these agreements are sometimes illusions. Confidence among them is measured by the test of facts. Every tweet, every political about-face can destroy what has been built.

On X, Ash Crypto talks about a “bullish” outlook for the markets. In contrast, other observers note that big announcements are not enough. Experience has shown that stability is fragile. In fact, the crypto market remains in reserve. Because at the slightest misstep, the agreement can once again become a double-edged sword.

Crypto still cautious: why the recovery is not taking off (yet)

Volatility is a way of life for the crypto market, but since the FTX–Covid–October black streak, investors are acting with restraint. The USA-China tariff truce could have breathed new life. However, few actors see it as a lasting boost.

Solana, Chainlink and a few others are rising timidly. Volumes are improving. But overall, distrust dominates. Technical signals say “why not”, traders’ instinct says “not yet”.

The proof? Reactions to X oscillate between feigned euphoria and assumed skepticism. Everyone keeps in mind that the protagonists of this agreement are the same ones who, just yesterday, agitated the markets with sanctions.

Five facts to remember about the Trump-Xi truce and its effect on cryptos

• On October 11, 2025, $19 billion was liquidated in 24 hours in crypto;
• The Fear & Greed index remains stuck between 33 and 37 despite the announcements;
• China will buy 25 million tonnes of US soybeans/year until 2028;
• Exports of rare metals to the USA are reauthorized;
• The price of bitcoin and that of Ether did not explode despite the agreement signed in Seoul.

The month of October definitely did not do Bitcoin any favors. The expected “Uptober” has turned into a dark month. It remains to be seen whether November will take over, with a less vivid memory and a dynamic finally underway.