Bitcoin climbed over 2% on Friday to $83,959, outperforming equities after China announced retaliatory tariffs against U.S. goods. While most major cryptocurrencies like Solana and Dogecoin also gained around 6%, crypto-related stocks such as Coinbase fell, though MicroStrategy rose nearly 4%. 

Analysts suggest the decentralized nature of crypto may insulate it from geopolitical shocks, potentially attracting capital away from traditional markets. 

Investors reacted sharply to escalating trade tensions, with China’s 34% levy mirroring Trump’s earlier tariff hike, further pressuring U.S. markets. Despite recent volatility, bitcoin has held steady in the $80,000–$90,000 range, showing resilience compared to stocks. 

Finsum: As global trade realigns and dollar reliance weakens, bitcoin is increasingly seen as both a liquidity source and a hedge against uncertainty.