📉 What’s Happening in the Stock Market?

Markets around the globe have been hit hard:

• S&P 500 dropped over 6% last Friday; futures point to another 4% decline today.
• Dow Jones plunged more than 2,200 points on April 4—its worst day since the COVID crash.
• Nasdaq is in bear market territory, having fallen more than 20% from its peak.
• Japan’s Nikkei 225 tumbled nearly 8% today after a 9% weekly loss.

The primary catalyst? A surprise move from President Trump, who announced a sweeping 10% tariff on imports from 90 countries—up to 50% on some. Markets are reacting to the threat of slowed global trade and retaliatory action.

Crypto Markets Are Sliding Too

Crypto is not escaping the carnage:

• Bitcoin (BTC) fell below $77,000, with over $800 million in liquidations in 24 hours.
• Ethereum (ETH) dropped over 14%, trading near $1,540.

Risk-off sentiment has hit the entire crypto sector. Despite long-term bullish narratives, digital assets are behaving like high-risk tech stocks—falling fast in uncertain macro conditions.

Is a Recession Coming?

Yes—at least, that’s what major banks are warning:

• J.P. Morgan: 60% chance of global recession
• Goldman Sachs: 45% chance of U.S. recession
• Investor Bill Ackman: Called for a 90-day tariff timeout, warning of an “economic nuclear winter”
• U.S. Bank: 25–30% recession risk, but still hopes for a soft landing

Analysts fear higher consumer prices, slower GDP growth, and tighter profit margins as a result of these new tariffs.

💡 What Should Investors Do?

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, you’re not alone. Here are a few tips:

• Diversify across stocks, bonds, commodities, and crypto.
• Hold some cash to buy during dips.
• Stay informed—markets are reacting to headlines more than fundamentals right now.
• Don’t panic sell—especially if you’re investing for the long haul.

Final Thoughts

Whether this is the beginning of a full-blown recession or just a rough quarter, one thing is certain: volatility is back. Watch trade policies closely, stay calm, and be ready to act strategically as opportunities emerge.