Home
/
Market analysis
/
Price trends
/

Market crash explained: is it tariffs or manipulation?

Market Chaos | Tariffs, Algos, and Whales Drive Fall

By

Hassan Al-Sayed

Oct 11, 2025, 06:52 AM

Updated

Oct 11, 2025, 09:00 PM

2 minutes needed to read

Graph showing a steep decline in stock prices with a distressed investor looking at a computer screen

A sharp drop in the cryptocurrency market has left investors bewildered. Speculation surrounding U.S.-China tariffs and alleged manipulation by large investors, or whales, are fueling the turmoil.

Market Context

On October 11, 2025, the market faced a significant downturn with crypto assets plummeting sharply. This decline followed announcements of 100% tariffs on Chinese goods set for November 1, sparking panic among traders. Many are attributing this rapid collapse to not just governmental actions but also to algorithmic trading and market manipulation.

Key Themes from Recent Commentary

  1. Tariff-Driven Concerns

    Ongoing worries about the impact of tariffs are prevalent. One commentator noted, "100% additional tariffs" could be a catalyst for broader economic repercussions, destabilizing crypto networks.

  2. Market Manipulation Allegations

    Comments suggest that big investors may be exploiting the situation for profit. "Flash crash, algos, driven by the tariff talk," pointed out a trader, highlighting how market algorithms might have influenced the rapid selling.

  3. Investor Sentiment & Resilience

    Despite the chaos, some users reported a calmer perspective after the initial shock. One trader remarked, "While I am still down it’s nothing to get too scared of thankfully," emphasizing a resilience among investors amidst uncertainty.

Market Sentiment

The mood remains largely negative, with many expressing confusion. Phrases like "Rip" and "No idea what happened. But it was Ugly quick??" reflect a broader sense of uncertainty in the market.

"Cause: The things and people that lurk in dark places." - An anonymous contributor

Key Observations

  • πŸ“‰ The market faces backlash from potential external factors, especially tariffs.

  • 🚨 Manipulation by major players seems to be exacerbating the situation.

  • πŸ’Έ Investor sentiment is pessimistic, with many holding losses but some finding reasons for calm.

With the crypto market's future hanging in the balance, traders are left wondering about the trajectory in this volatile climate. Will the impending tariffs lead to further declines, or can market confidence rebound?

Looking Ahead

Traders should brace for potential turbulence as the November tariffs approach. Experts suggest there's about a 60% chance further declines could occur if the tariffs are enacted without relief measures. If major players continue to influence the market, the likelihood of recovery could drop to around 30%. As events unfold, awareness of economic shifts and the actions of large investors will be crucial for strategy moving forward.

Historical Parallel

Consider the tumultuous crypto landscape against the backdrop of the California Gold Rush, where fortunes boomed and busts were common. Investors today may navigate a similar treacherous path, where swift policy changes and market speculations dictate their fates.