US Tariff Tensions and Cryptocurrencies as a Safe Haven

US Tariff Tensions Fuel Bitcoin Adoption in Brazil

In 2025, the United States finds itself embroiled in tariff disputes, a consequence of both long-standing protectionist policies and recent impactful decisions. Historically, the US has employed tariffs as a tool for economic protection and geopolitical leverage.

However, the Trump administration significantly escalated this approach, imposing broad measures against various trade partners, including China, Canada, and, more recently, Brazil. While these actions are justified as efforts to reduce trade deficits, they have triggered retaliations, increased input costs, and destabilized global supply chains.

Brazil has responded by filing a complaint with the World Trade Organization (WTO) and announcing countermeasures. The Brazilian Supreme Court is also being asked to determine the extent of the president’s constitutional authority to act in this manner.

Bitcoin as a Safe Haven

Guilherme Sacamone, CEO of OKX in Brazil, observes that “recent tariff measures in the US demonstrate how restrictive economic policies can amplify inflationary pressures and increase risk aversion in global markets, reinforcing the need for investors to seek assets that preserve value and liquidity on an international scale.”

This environment of trade shocks and legal uncertainties has prompted a classic risk-off response from markets. Investors are seeking “safe havens” to protect their capital from volatility, inflation, and regulatory instability.

It is within this context that Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies are gaining traction as protective alternatives. In countries affected by high tariffs, input inflation, and currency devaluation, assets not directly controlled by governments become increasingly attractive.

Furthermore, unlike traditional assets that can be frozen or restricted during sanctions and trade wars, cryptocurrencies circulate globally without the need for intermediaries.

Diversification and Global Relevance

Sacamone adds, “The move towards cryptocurrencies in these scenarios is not solely defensive. It also demonstrates how investors are seeking intelligent diversification and exposure to an asset class that is growing in global relevance.”

Brazil’s Leading Role in Crypto Adoption

According to Chainalysis’ “Geography of Cryptocurrency” report, published in September 2025, Brazil ranks 5th globally in cryptocurrency adoption, trailing only India, the United States, Pakistan, and Vietnam. It leads Latin America in all evaluated metrics, including retail, DeFi, and institutional activity.

These figures illustrate how, amid economic and political tensions, Brazil is emerging as a leading adopter of cryptocurrencies, solidifying digital assets as strategic instruments for diversification and capital protection.