Emre Yumlu 
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has drawn attention to the devastating effects of trade wars on the global financial system, stating that the recent market fluctuations are directly linked to Trump’s aggressive customs tariffs.
Geopolitical Uncertainty Threatens the Financial System
In its report, the IMF emphasized that increasing geopolitical tensions threaten financial stability and create significant uncertainty in the markets. The report stated:
“The rise in geopolitical risks increases the likelihood of new tensions and their potential impacts on macro-financial stability.”
The sharp declines in global stock markets have particularly affected major investment institutions such as hedge funds and pension funds. The IMF noted that such severe fluctuations have triggered margin calls, where banks demand more collateral from investors.
Indeed, earlier this month, hedge funds received the largest margin calls since the pandemic. The reason was the sharp drops in stock prices following new tariff announcements from the Trump administration.
The Cost of Trade Wars and Complacency: Market Crisis
The IMF warned that investors’ inability to accurately price geopolitical developments could lead to severe market reactions, potentially resulting in widespread financial turmoil. Events such as Trump’s trade war against China and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine were highlighted as past examples of this risk.
Trade Tensions Between the US and China Are Escalating
During his second presidential term, Trump resorted to the highest customs tariffs in history as part of his trade policy. The reciprocal taxes applied between the US and China now exceed 100%. This means every imported product costs twice as much.
IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva stated following Trump’s so-called “liberation day” that such tariffs represent a serious threat to the global economy.
IMF: Markets Are Not Ready for a Crisis
The report stressed that geopolitical risks are still not being adequately considered by investors. According to the IMF, the failure to fully price in these risks could lead to sudden and prolonged corrections, creating instability in the markets.
In summary, the analysis published by the IMF reveals that Trump’s trade wars threaten not only the economy but also financial security. With rising tariffs, sharp market reactions, and increased investor uncertainty, the IMF warns that a global financial storm may be looming.
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