Mr. Trump's Anti-China Price Controls Send Bitcoin to $111K, Says Mr. Scott Bessent

Mr. Scott Bessent, the U.S. Treasury Secretary, told markets that the recent policy move is intended to help the United States compete against what he described as “non-market” economies such as China. At the same time, Mr. Trump’s announcement of aggressive anti-China price controls appears to have triggered a dramatic risk-on move in cryptocurrency markets, driving Bitcoin to an eye-catching $111,000 in a sharp intra-day swing.

The juxtaposition of macroeconomic policy shifts and geopolitical tension — effectively an all-out trade confrontation between the U.S. and China — has pushed investors to reassess safe-haven and risk assets. According to commentary from the U.S. Treasury, the measures are meant to counterbalance non-market distortions, but markets have interpreted them as a broadening of economic rivalry, elevating systemic risk and volatility.

From a market-structure standpoint, the move to $111K reflects a powerful short-covering rally and rotation away from equities and traditional havens into crypto. The price action shows that Bitcoin has become increasingly sensitive to macro policy shocks: when trade tensions intensify, liquidity can surge into digital assets perceived as hedge vehicles or tactical alternatives. Traders should note that such rapid moves often produce equally rapid retracements as profit-taking and margin dynamics kick in.

Technically, the breakout toward $111K cleared prior resistance bands, but sustainable gains will depend on volume confirmation and macro follow-through. Key levels to watch: near-term support around previous consolidation zones, and resistance that may form if volatility encourages further speculative inflows. Risk managers should consider widening stop bands and reassessing leverage given the elevated correlation spikes between crypto and macro headlines.

Policy-wise, the Treasury’s framing — particularly the language used by Mr. Scott Bessent — signals potential for further economic tools aimed at counteracting perceived unfair trade practices. Markets will be tracking whether these measures remain targeted price controls or evolve into broader restrictions with spillover effects. If the latter occurs, capital allocation patterns could shift structurally, boosting demand for decentralized, cross-border instruments like Bitcoin.

For investors, the immediate takeaway is to balance opportunistic exposure with disciplined risk controls. A dramatic headline-driven push to $111K can present both entry opportunities and traps: consider phased positions, clear stop-loss levels, and scenario plans for renewed policy escalation or de-escalation. Analysts should also monitor order-book depth and derivatives positioning to gauge the sustainability of the move.

Conclusion: The intersection of geopolitical policy — spearheaded by Mr. Scott Bessent and highlighted by Mr. Trump’s anti-China stance — and market psychology has produced a significant, rapid re-rating in crypto risk. While Bitcoin’s move to $111K underscores its growing role in macro portfolios, traders should remain cautious: headline-driven volatility can reverse quickly, and structural policy outcomes will ultimately determine longer-term direction.