Trump announces 10% global tariff following SCOTUS ruling

CoinTelegraph

by Vince Quill

February 20, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

The U.S. Supreme Court recently ruled that President Donald Trump cannot impose tariffs during peacetime using national emergency powers under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). In response, Trump announced a 10% global tariff, vowing to implement it through alternative legal frameworks such as the Trade Expansion Act of 1962 and the Trade Act of 1974. Trump expressed frustration with the court’s decision, calling it “ridiculous,” and emphasized his intent to proceed with the tariffs despite the setback. The move has sparked significant market uncertainty, particularly in high-risk sectors like cryptocurrency and equities. Investors have grown increasingly cautious as tariffs often lead to severe downturns in these volatile markets. The announcement has further complicated an already tense global trade landscape, with analysts warning of potential long-term economic impacts. For readers interested in crypto and blockchain, this development is particularly relevant due to the interconnectedness of financial markets. Tariffs and trade-related uncertainties tend to amplify market volatility, which can directly affect cryptocurrency prices and investor sentiment. The ongoing tension between U.S. trade policies and global markets underscores the risks associated with high-risk investments like crypto. In a broader context, Trump’s decision highlights the potential for prolonged economic instability, which could have far-reaching consequences for industries reliant on global trade. The shift to alternative legal methods for imposing tariffs signals a willingness by the administration to continue pursuing protectionist measures, even in the face of legal challenges. For those following blockchain and crypto, this underscores the importance of staying informed about macroeconomic factors that can influence market dynamics. As global trade policies evolve, their impact on financial markets—and by extension, crypto—will remain a critical area of focus for investors and enthusiasts alike.

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Originally published on CoinTelegraph on 2/20/2026