Tariff Tensions: China May Devalue Currencies, Economists Warn
Trade War Fears Spark Global Market Volatility as China’s Yuan May Face Devaluation
The global markets are in turmoil as the US’s reciprocal tariffs have sent shockwaves through international trade. Chief economist Neelkanth Mishra, of Axis Bank, warns that countries like China may be forced to devalue their currencies in response to the crisis. Speaking to NDTV, Mishra highlighted China’s precarious balance of payments position, fueled by increased capital flight and dwindling foreign direct investment. As the country’s trade surplus narrows and tariffs take their toll, Mishra believes a yuan devaluation may become inevitable.
Mishra emphasizes the high risk of a currency war, cautioning that once devaluation begins, the situation could spiral into an unpredictable environment. This would have far-reaching consequences for global financial markets, as countries shift their balance of trade and industrial policies, including export subsidies and currency manipulation, come under scrutiny. The US administration’s tariffs, Mishra argues, are not solely driven by economic concerns but also by a desire to reshape global trade dynamics, moving away from multilateral agreements to bilateral ones.
The implications for India are particularly concerning, as economic growth may slow, dampening investor confidence and financial markets. However, Mishra believes India’s financial foundation remains relatively stable, thanks to fiscal and regulatory easing, as well as decisive monetary policy actions by the RBI. The key lies in navigating the potential economic slowdown, which is expected to affect India’s low equity risk premium amid ongoing global uncertainties.
US President Donald Trump has reiterated his support for tariffs, dismissing concerns over their economic impact. "Sometimes you have to take medicine to fix something," he said, justifying market volatility. Nevertheless, the impacts are evident, with trillions of dollars in market value wiped off US companies since his tariff policies began. As fears of a prolonged trade war intensify, traders are bracing for further market disruption.
As the global economy teeters on the brink of uncertainty, investors are reassessing their exposure to international markets. China’s yuan may be the first victim of the currency war, but the far-reaching consequences will undoubtedly affect the world’s most significant trading nations. The fate of international trade hangs in the balance, with economic sanctions and devaluations threatening to upend the delicate balance of global markets.
We will continue to monitor the situation as it unfolds, providing updates on the impact of tariffs and the potential for a global economic slowdown on India’s financial markets. Stay tuned for the latest developments in the ongoing trade war saga.
Original Source: https://www.morungexpress.com/some-nations-like-china-may-devaluate-their-currencies-neelkanth-mishra-on-us-tariffs
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Publish Date: 2025-04-07 10:37:00