Equity markets took a hit as fresh tariff rhetoric rattled traders. The uncertainty sent investors scrambling for safe havens—gold surged on defensive positioning as classic risk-off sentiment kicked in. When policy threats mount, portfolios rotate. Stock volatility climbs, bonds stabilize, and precious metals become the obvious hedge. This familiar playbook plays out whenever trade tensions escalate. For crypto traders watching traditional markets, it's a reminder: macro headwinds reshape sentiment across all asset classes, not just digital currencies.