Worries about Trump’s plans to impose taxes on Chinese goods are causing the yuan to fall. People are concerned that China might let the yuan weaken to make up for losses in exports. China’s CSI 300 index went down by 0.3%, and Hong Kong’s Hang Seng Index fell by 1.1%, showing that investors are feeling uncertain about the future.
On Wednesday, the People’s Bank of China (PBoC) set the yuan’s daily exchange rate at 7.1887 yuan per dollar, almost the same as the day before. However, pressure grew after strong economic data from the U.S. made the dollar stronger. Experts say that even a small change in the yuan’s rate could cause investors to sell off their holdings.
Donald Trump, who is expected to return to office on January 20, has not made his tariff plans clear, keeping markets uncertain. In the past, he has threatened to impose very high tariffs of 150%-200% on Chinese goods if China takes strong actions against Taiwan. His government’s approach to trade could increase tensions, making global markets prepare for possible disruptions.