The global economy is teetering on the edge of a trade war not seen in over a century—and at the center of it all is former U.S. President Donald Trump’s sweeping tariff policy. In a move dubbed “Liberation Day,” Trump announced expansive tariffs on April 2, sparing no country, not even an uninhabited island of penguins. The announcement sent global markets into freefall and reignited fears of a worldwide recession.
Trump’s “Liberation Day” Tariff Bombshell
Trump’s new policy includes a universal 10% tariff on all imports, with “reciprocal” tariffs climbing as high as 50%. India faces a 26% tariff, China 34%, the EU 20%, and the UK 10%. Markets responded with a brutal correction: the U.S. stock market logged its worst day since the 2020 COVID crash, and the dollar gave up all post-election gains.
Global Retaliation Begins: China, EU, and Canada Strike Back
China retaliated immediately with 34% duties on U.S. goods, while Canada and the European Union warned of countermeasures. As global economic anxiety builds, so do fears of inflation in the U.S. and mass layoffs. Experts say the price of basic goods may spike, and supply chains could face significant delays.
“Make America Wealthy Again”—Or Not?
“Four months into 2025, we can say one thing with certainty – tariff is the dreaded word of the year,” reads one analysis. “Make America Wealthy Again” is the slogan Trump touts, but early signs suggest the opposite could unfold. The possibility of recession looms large, and Americans are starting to feel the pinch.
Trump’s Third Term Ambitions: Can He Run Again?
Amid the chaos, Trump’s approval rating has dipped to 43%, the lowest since his re-election. Yet he continues to hint at a controversial third term run, despite the 22nd Amendment. Can he exploit a legal loophole?
Impeachment in South Korea Adds to Global Turmoil
South Korea’s President Yoon Suk Yeol has been officially removed from office after months of political turmoil and a brief martial law declaration in December. The country’s Constitutional Court upheld his impeachment, ending a tense chapter in South Korean politics.
Japan Issues Warning Over “Megaquake” Threat
Following a 7.7 magnitude quake in Myanmar and Thailand, Japan has warned of a looming megaquake in the Nankai Trough. The potential disaster could claim nearly 300,000 lives and result in $1.81 trillion in losses.
Nithyananda’s ‘Kailasa’ in Trouble Again
Self-proclaimed godman Nithyananda, who fled India after facing serious charges, is once again in the spotlight. His fictional nation ‘Kailasa’ has sparked diplomatic tensions after its so-called representatives attempted to “take over” Bolivia.
AI Art Trend Sparks Debate Over Data Privacy
Meanwhile, the internet is divided over ChatGPT’s viral Ghibli-style art trend. While the creative wave has captured imaginations worldwide, privacy concerns are growing. Is the AI model quietly collecting personal data?
From soaring tariffs and impeachment to fake nations and AI-powered trends, 2025 is already shaping up to be a rollercoaster of a year. As trade wars escalate, one thing is clear: the world is watching, and your job and wallet might be next in line.