U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping held a critical 90-minute phone call on June 5, 2025, marking a pivotal moment in easing trade tensions between the world’s two largest economies. While the conversation revolved primarily around tariff disputes and rare earth exports, its ripple effects have already begun to influence global markets, including crypto assets.
The call, which came after months of stalemate in trade talks, resulted in several tangible developments that not only revived diplomatic dialogue but also bolstered short-term market optimism.
Trade Talks Reignite: A Temporary Pause in the Economic Cold War
According to official sources, both leaders agreed to restart formal trade negotiations, with high-level U.S. representatives including Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, and Trade Representative Jamieson Greer expected to visit Beijing in the coming weeks.
In a goodwill gesture, Trump confirmed a temporary rollback of tariffs on Chinese goods from a staggering 145% to 30% for a 90-day period. In return, China reduced its tariffs on U.S. imports from 125% to 10%, signaling a thaw in what has been described as an economic cold war.
“It was a productive and results-oriented call that brought real movement for both nations,” President Trump said in a press statement. “We’re hopeful this leads to something lasting.”
Rare Earths at the Heart of Strategic Dialogue
A critical point of discussion was rare earth mineral exports, an area where China holds a strategic advantage. Trump mentioned that the call produced “a very positive conclusion for both countries,” though specific export commitments remain under wraps. Given that rare earth elements are essential for advanced electronics, EVs, and even blockchain infrastructure, this portion of the dialogue carries indirect weight for the tech and crypto sectors.
Markets React to Diplomatic Detente
U.S. equity markets reacted positively to the call’s news. Futures for the Dow Jones, S&P 500, and Nasdaq-100 each rose approximately 0.2% in pre-market trading. The S&P 500 erased earlier losses, signaling improved investor sentiment.
This shift was mirrored across risk-on assets, with Bitcoin climbing modestly from $69,200 to $70,480, and Ethereum rising 1.3% to $3,940. Analysts noted that although crypto wasn’t discussed during the call, the improved geopolitical climate had a knock-on effect on speculative assets.
“Markets love predictability, and this phone call is a step toward global stability — that’s good for Bitcoin,” said Liam Rowe, chief strategist at Web3 analytics firm ChainSight.
Crypto Market Implications: Indirect, But Influential
While the Trump–Xi call focused on trade and technology, the crypto world has reason to pay close attention. Historically, strained U.S.-China relations have led to regulatory tightening in both regions, especially China’s aggressive stance on crypto mining and trading.
With tensions cooling, some experts speculate that China may soften its regulatory posture, particularly toward blockchain innovation and CBDC cross-border trials. The U.S., under Trump’s second term, has also signaled greater openness to crypto integration, especially after Circle’s recent IPO and growing calls for stablecoin regulation clarity.
Improved diplomatic relations may also accelerate collaboration on global financial technology standards, including CBDC interoperability, digital asset taxation frameworks, and cross-border payment infrastructure, all of which are key to the next stage of crypto adoption.
What Comes Next?
Despite the positive headlines, much remains uncertain. The 90-day tariff pause could either pave the way for a comprehensive trade deal or collapse into renewed hostilities. For the crypto market, this interim period presents an opportunity for short-term gains, especially in risk assets that benefit from macroeconomic stability.
Meanwhile, crypto investors and institutions will be closely monitoring whether this diplomatic breakthrough translates into policy shifts or remains a symbolic gesture.
Conclusion: Stability Returns, But for How Long?
The Trump–Xi phone call has temporarily eased the tension in global markets and injected fresh optimism into the trading environment. While crypto assets were not directly addressed, the broader implications of de-escalated U.S.–China trade tensions are being felt across financial markets.
As the two powers move toward renewed negotiations, the world and the crypto sector will be watching closely. When the giants talk, markets listen.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why did Trump and Xi Jinping speak on the phone?
The two leaders held a 90-minute call to restart trade negotiations, ease tariff tensions, and address disputes over rare earth mineral exports.
How did the markets react to the Trump–Xi call?
U.S. stocks rose modestly, and crypto markets responded positively. Bitcoin and Ethereum both saw slight gains due to increased investor confidence.
What does this mean for crypto investors?
While crypto wasn’t directly mentioned, improved U.S.–China relations may lead to global financial stability, which typically benefits digital assets.
Glossary of Key Terms
CBDC (Central Bank Digital Currency)
A government-issued digital version of fiat currency designed to offer programmable features and increased control over monetary policy.
Rare Earth Minerals
Naturally occurring elements critical for tech production, including electronics, batteries, and blockchain hardware. China dominates this export market.
Tariff
A tax imposed on imports or exports between countries. High tariffs were at the center of recent U.S.–China trade tensions.
Trade War
A conflict between countries where they impose tariffs or other restrictions on each other’s goods, often resulting in economic instability.
Circle IPO
Circle, the issuer of the USDC stablecoin, recently debuted on the NYSE under the ticker CRCL, signaling growing institutional acceptance of crypto.