In this article, we break down what to expect from Liberation Day and how it could shape the outlook for equities, the US economy and crypto markets.

 April 2, 2025 as "Liberation Day" — a moment he claims will restore America's trade fairness through sweeping reciprocal tariffs. With few concrete details confirmed, global markets remain on edge. Investors are bracing for the economic fallout of a potential trade war, and crypto traders are watching closely to assess the impact on digital assets. In this article, we break down what to expect from “Liberation Day” and how it could shape the outlook for equities, the US economy and crypto markets.

Since returning to the White House in January 2025, President Trump has prioritized reshaping US trade policy with a renewed focus on tariffs. His administration has already announced 

 on all steel and aluminum imports. Many of these actions take effect this week, coinciding with his so-called Liberation Day.

Trump argues that tariffs are a necessary tool to reduce the US trade deficit and force foreign nations to stop what he calls "economic warfare" against the American worker. Treasury secretary Scott Bessent 

 countries with persistent trade surpluses — dubbed the 

 — as primary targets for reciprocal tariffs. These include China, the EU, Canada and Mexico.

However, critics point to the growing risk of a global trade war, with multiple partners already threatening or initiating retaliatory measures. Goldman Sachs recently 

, citing declining business confidence and mounting economic uncertainty. The tariffs, designed to protect US industries, could instead raise prices and weigh on consumer spending.

What to expect from Trump's ‘Liberation Day’ announcement

Trump is expected to reveal his tariff plans in a Rose Garden press conference on April 2. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt 

 that the president would impose tariffs on "any country that has treated the American people unfairly" — though no nation-specific exemptions have been confirmed. Trump has promised these reciprocal tariffs will be 

While final details remain under wraps, proposals have included both country-wide and sector-specific tariffs. These could range from uniform, percentage-based levies to targeted charges on industries like pharmaceuticals, semiconductors and autos. Trump's advisers, including Trump trade adviser Peter Navarro and commerce secretary Howard Lutnick, claim the new tariffs could generate over $600 billion annually — though many economists dispute this figure.

Delayed tariffs on Canadian and Mexican imports, 

 in early March, are also set to take effect this week. These include taxes on agricultural products, energy goods and automotive components. Trump has also 

 a 25% tariff on imports from countries that purchase oil or gas from Venezuela.

Given the administration's conflicting signals in recent weeks, there's a wide range of potential outcomes. Whether “Liberation Day” ushers in immediate enforcement, additional delays or future negotiation rounds remains to be seen. For now, uncertainty reigns.

Potential impact on the US economy and global markets

Economists warn that broad-based tariffs could lead to slower US growth, higher consumer prices and widening inequality. Goldman Sachs now 

 Trump's trade policies to reduce annual GDP growth to 1.5% from 2%, while the odds of a recession are being raised from 20% to 35%.

Global equity markets have already shown signs of stress. European and Asian indices dipped ahead of “Liberation Day,” while the S&P 500 and Nasdaq-100 

 in March (respectively). Auto manufacturers, tech firms and retailers could be especially vulnerable if tariffs disrupt global supply chains.

There's also the question of the Federal Reserve's response. With inflation risks rising, policymakers may hold off on anticipated rate cuts, further complicating the economic outlook heading into Q2.

How will ‘Liberation Day’ affect the crypto industry?

Crypto markets have mirrored broader risk sentiment over the past quarter, with investors reducing exposure amid macroeconomic turbulence. As of April 1, the 

 is down 16.9% year-to-date. Bitcoin has fallen 10.48%, Ethereum 44.2% and Solana 33% — despite reaching new highs in January on hopes for pro-crypto policies from the Trump administration.

Investor optimism has since cooled as recession risks, inflation concerns and policy unpredictability drive a risk-off mood. Bitcoin dipped to $81,656 over the weekend, marking its weakest Q1 since 2018. Traders remain cautious ahead of “Liberation Day,” awaiting clarity before opening new positions.

“Liberation Day” could further weigh on crypto prices if market volatility increases and capital rotates out of risk assets. However, some analysts believe any resulting sell-off may offer an opportunity to 

 — especially if Trump follows through on crypto-friendly regulation later this year. For now, though, many eyes are on April 2.

With details still unknown, the crypto market remains in a "wait-and-see" phase. “Liberation Day” could mark a turning point — for better or worse — depending upon the scope and execution of Trump's tariff agenda.

Intermediate

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Trump's 'Liberation Day': What it means for crypto markets

Grayscale has filed to convert its private Digital Large Cap Fund, which includes Bitcoin, Ethereum, XRP, Solana, and Cardano, into a publicly available exchange-traded fund (ETF). 

Daily top performer — Compound Finance (COMP)

The S&P 500 rose 0.38% as investors awaited new tariffs amid weak factory data and declining job openings. Gold eased to $3,113 after hitting a record high, driven by profit-taking ahead of Trump's tariff announcement, but remains strong due to safe-haven demand and economic uncertainties. The Coindesk Indices, which tracks the broader crypto market, are up by 1.30%, with Bitcoin and Ether are up 3.10% and 5.19%, respectively, in the past 24 hours. Trade these markets and more with up to 500x leverage on Bybit MT5 using this 

Today's top performer is COMP, up 14.3%, following the proposal for the creation of a foundation to ensure consistent leadership and coordination by Compound.

Compound Finance (COMP), launched in September 2018, is a DeFi lending platform that allows users to earn interest on crypto assets. Built on smart contracts, it adjusts interest rates based on supply and demand, connecting lenders and borrowers without intermediaries. In June 2020, Compound decentralized with the launch of COMP and full governance transfer. However, it lacks a core operational pillar. With Compound v4 development and increased community engagement, the need for consistent leadership has grown. To address this, Compound Labs 

 creating a Compound Foundation for structure, clarity, and coordination, similar to other ecosystems like Uniswap.

Check out the latest prices, charts, and data of 

 to convert its private Digital Large Cap Fund, which includes Bitcoin, Ethereum, XRP, Solana, and Cardano, into a publicly available exchange-traded fund (ETF). The fund, which currently holds 79.4% Bitcoin and 10.69% Ethereum, has grown by 478.83% since its launch in 2018. The conversion would allow everyday investors to access the crypto market, covering about 75% of the digital asset market cap. If successful, it would eliminate the current barrier that restricts access to accredited investors. The filing is still in progress, with management fees and other details pending.

Yesterday, BTC spot ETF had a total outflow of $157.8 million, with GBTC seeing a loss of $10.1 million and non-GBTC products losing $147.7 million.

 that its airdrop might be approaching, with a claim page now live. Registration for the airdrop runs from April 2 to April 17, and claims are expected to open on April 22. However, nothing has been officially confirmed yet. Stay tuned for updates.

Beginner

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Grayscale files to convert digital large cap fund into publicly accessible crypto ETF

In this guide, we'll dive into how to trade crypto with the Bybit app, a convenient and feature-rich platform. Explore spot and derivatives trading for beginners on the Bybit app.

Welcome to our step-by-step guide on trading using the Bybit app. In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know — from downloading the app and setting up your account to executing spot, margin and derivatives trades. Bybit is a leading cryptocurrency exchange that offers a fully localized and user-friendly mobile experience, making it easy for both beginning and seasoned traders to manage their investments seamlessly.

First, download the Bybit app from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play (Android). Once you’ve installed the app, open it and select your preferred language.

 and register using your email address or phone number. Complete the verification process by submitting your mainland Chinese ID or passport as required. This step is crucial to ensure your account is secure, and to unlock higher withdrawal limits.

After verifying your identity, head over to the 

 tab to fund your account. You can directly deposit cryptocurrencies like BTC or USDT. Our 

 (UTA) streamlines fund management, allowing you to trade seamlessly across different markets without the hassle of multiple wallets.

Spot trading with Bybit lets you buy or sell cryptocurrencies at current market prices with immediate settlement.

To begin, log in to the app and tap on the 

Choose your desired trading pair, such as BTC/USDC or ETH/USDT, from the list.

 lets you specify a price at which you want to buy or sell. 

Enter the amount you wish to trade, review the details and confirm your order.

Once your order is executed, monitor its status in the 

Bybit has an intuitive interface that displays real-time updates, so you can track your trades anytime with ease. 

How to execute a spot margin trade with the Bybit app

For traders looking to leverage their positions, Bybit offers a spot margin trading feature that allows you to borrow funds to increase your buying power. Start by logging into your account and tapping on 

Choose a trading pair, such as ETH/USDC, which supports margin trading with leverage options of up to 10x. 

Once your trading pair is selected, you’ll need to select the margin amount (e.g., 

 at which you want your limit order to execute.

You’ll also see several other important metrics, such as 

Enter the amount you wish to trade, and then carefully review all of the details.

After confirming your order, your margin trade will be executed. You can track your position in the 

 tab, where you can also set up stop-loss or take-profit orders to manage risk. 

How to trade derivatives with the Bybit app

Bybit also offers derivatives trading, which allows you to speculate on the price movements of cryptocurrencies without actually owning the underlying assets. Derivatives include Futures and Perpetual contracts, which can be traded with leverage, sometimes up to 100x.

To start, log in to your account and tap on 

Set your desired leverage (e.g., 50x) and choose between 

 margin modes, based on your risk preference.

 (if using limit or conditional orders) and 

Once you’re satisfied with your parameters, confirm your order and your position will appear in the 

Trading with the Bybit app offers numerous advantages that make managing digital assets both efficient and secure. The platform’s user-friendly design, high-speed execution and comprehensive risk management tools cater to traders of all levels. Our Unified Trading Account (UTA) streamlines fund management by consolidating assets for spot, margin and derivatives trading under one account, which reduces operational complexity and enhances overall efficiency. This streamlined approach lets you focus on strategy rather than logistics.

Additionally, Bybit’s state-of-the-art security measures — such as multi-factor authentication, regular independent audits and cold storage of assets — ensure that your transactions are conducted safely and transparently. With an interface designed to minimize distractions and provide real-time data, you can quickly monitor market movements and adjust positions. 

Our commitment to a secure and reliable trading experience is evident in our continuous improvements and proactive customer support. These features empower you to make informed trading decisions, fostering confidence in your ability to navigate the dynamic crypto market.

Bybit delivers a secure, robust and intuitive mobile platform that simplifies cryptocurrency trading for everyone. In this guide, we’ve explored how to set up an account, fund it and execute various types of trades — spot, margin and derivatives — using a fully localized and user-friendly interface. Our Unified Trading Account and comprehensive risk management tools ensure a smooth trading experience so you can focus on growing your investments.

Looking ahead, Bybit remains dedicated to innovation and excellence in the crypto industry. We continually refine our platform, based on user feedback and market trends, ensuring that you have access to the latest tools and features. Our commitment to transparency and security underpins everything we do as we build trust and empower traders. 

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How to trade with the Bybit app

Approval of an Aptos Spot ETF could drive price growth and mainstream adoption by offering regulated, accessible exposure to APT for investors.

In early March 2025, Bitwise Asset Management, Inc. filed an S-1 registration statement with the SEC to launch a Aptos Spot 

 (ETF), sparking fresh excitement in the crypto market. Known for its cutting-edge blockchain architecture and lightning-fast transactions, Aptos is gaining traction, and now joins the growing list of projects seeking mainstream investment products. 

This article describes how an Aptos Spot ETF works, its potential impact on the market, regulatory hurdles and the significance of potential approval for the future of altcoin investments. Could this be the move that propels Aptos to blockchain supremacy?

An Aptos Spot ETF is an exchange-traded fund that physically holds the 

 (APT) cryptocurrency and directly tracks its real-time price, providing investors exposure to its market performance without needing to own the asset itself.

An Aptos Spot ETF would operate by acquiring Aptos tokens through authorized participants (APs), typically large financial institutions. These APs play a crucial role in the creation and redemption of ETF shares. They purchase Aptos tokens, either from the open market or directly from exchanges, and transfer them to the ETF in exchange for newly issued shares.

Once the tokens are bought, the ETF stores them securely, often through specialized custodial services that ensure transparency and regulatory compliance. The ETF tracks the value of Aptos (APT) by referencing a specific pricing benchmark, such as the CF Aptos-Dollar Settlement Price, aggregating data from major trading platforms in order to accurately reflect the APT token’s market value. 

Creation and redemption of Aptos Spot ETF shares

Creation and redemption of ETF shares takes place in large blocks, known as Baskets, which typically consist of 10,000 shares. APs are key in maintaining liquidity and ensuring that the ETF’s price stays aligned with the value of the underlying asset. 

In the creation process, an AP delivers cash for an amount equivalent to the value of the ETF shares it wants. The fund’s sponsor then uses this cash to acquire Aptos tokens from pre-approved trading counterparties, who operate independently of the APs. Once the tokens are acquired, the ETF issues the corresponding number of shares to the AP, which can then sell them on the open market.

On the flip side, during the redemption process, an AP wishing to redeem ETF shares returns the specified number of shares to the fund. In return, the AP receives cash for an amount equivalent to the value of the underlying Aptos tokens. To fund this redemption, the sponsor arranges for the sale of the required Aptos tokens to approved counterparties, and the cash proceeds are used to fulfill the redemption request.

Once created, ETF shares are listed and traded on public stock exchanges, allowing investors to buy and sell them as they would traditional stocks during market hours. This provides liquidity and accessibility to a broader range of investors.

The ETF provider charges an annual management fee for overseeing the fund's operations. These fees compensate the provider for managing the fund and ensuring its alignment with the underlying asset's performance. This mechanism ensures that the Aptos Spot ETF stays closely aligned with the market value of Aptos tokens, while offering investors the convenience of trading ETF shares on traditional financial markets.

On Mar 5, 2025, Bitwise Asset Management submitted an 

 to the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), seeking approval to launch an Aptos Spot ETF. To address regulatory concerns, Bitwise has decided to exclude a staking provision from the Aptos ETF. (

 allows users to earn rewards by holding their cryptocurrency instead of selling it, but this can complicate ETF structures and raise issues with the SEC.) 

Bitwise still needs to submit an SEC Form 19b-4 for its Aptos Spot ETF application. Once the SEC acknowledges receipt of the 19b-4, the review process will officially begin, which could take several months. With the SEC grappling with an increasing number of Spot ETF applications, Bitwise's filing is expected to draw significant attention. The outcome could set an important precedent for the future of altcoin ETFs in the US.

Current impact of Aptos Spot ETF applications on the crypto market

The announcement of Bitwise’s filing for an Aptos Spot ETF had an immediate and positive effect on the crypto market. In response to the news, 

, jumping more than 18% to around $6.48. This spike reflected investor optimism surrounding the potential approval of the ETF and the impetus it would provide for growing acceptance of Aptos in traditional financial markets.

The market’s reaction highlights a rising interest in alternative cryptocurrencies, as well as the anticipation of more diversified investment options. While the approval of the Aptos Spot ETF is still uncertain, the filing has already had a significant impact on market sentiment, demonstrating the powerful influence of regulatory developments on cryptocurrency valuations.

What will it mean if an Aptos Spot ETF application is approved?

​The approval of an Aptos Spot ETF by the US SEC would mark a significant milestone in the cryptocurrency and traditional finance sectors. 

Looking to capture the market and trade APT tokens? Bybit offers the 

The potential approval of an Aptos Spot ETF represents a transformative moment for both the crypto and traditional finance sectors. It promises increased accessibility and liquidity for Aptos, while also offering institutional and retail investors a regulated means to gain exposure to Aptos via its APT token. Enhanced price discovery and regulatory validation could stabilize the token’s value and boost market confidence. Finally, success in this application may pave the way for additional altcoin ETFs, broadening investment opportunities and further integrating cryptocurrencies into mainstream financial markets.

aptos etf.png

Aptos Spot ETF: Fast track to blockchain supremacy

Bybit Learn

web3

Explainers

Altcoins

Blockchain

DuckChain (DUCK) is a Layer 2 blockchain integrating AI and cross-chain interoperability, transforming Telegram into a crypto super-app with seamless DeFi access.

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 (TON) blockchain in 2024 has focused the crypto industry's attention on the Telegram messaging app and its potential 

 use cases. The Open Network, frequently referred to as TON, became the first major blockchain project to tightly integrate the worlds of crypto and Web 2.0–based social media. And Telegram, with its nearly 1 billion active monthly users and popularity for one-to-one and one-to-many interactions, can be an absolute goldmine for web3 projects.

It was only a matter of time before other blockchain technology projects recognized the messenger's massive potential, and rushed to leverage opportunities. One of the earliest among these projects is DuckChain (DUCK) — a 

 network. DuckChain aims to leverage artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, 

 (EVM) compatibility and cross-chain interoperability with a unified gas system, and to close integration with Telegram to become a significant bridge between Web 2.0 and web3 environments.

 (DUCK) is a high-performance, AI-powered Layer 2 chain designed for tight integration with the Telegram social media network.

 It’s based on Arbitrum Orbit technology, a framework for building highly scalable and cost-efficient Layer 2 chains with EVM compatibility. As a Layer 2 platform, DuckChain links to TON’s Layer 1 network while also providing the functionality to integrate assets from the Ethereum and 

DuckChain's Arbitrum Orbit–based foundation supports its platform’s high throughput and low transaction costs. Naturally, the use of the Arbitrum Orbit stack also ensures EVM compatibility. In fact, DuckChain is one of the first, if not the first, web3 solutions within the wider TON ecosystem that features direct compatibility with EVM. As of yet, TON’s underlying blockchain has no built-in compatibility with the Ethereum ecosystem, making DuckChain a pioneer in bridging these two major blockchain environments.

DuckChain is not only fully EVM-compatible — it’s also connected to Bitcoin, allowing assets from Ethereum and Bitcoin ecosystems to be utilized on the platform. Additionally, 

 — social tokens widely used on Telegram for monetization — can be tokenized on DuckChain for further use within its 

 (DApps). In the future, the platform also hopes to implement cross-chain interoperability with 

DuckChain’s network has also integrated several AI-supported functions. These include AI-driven governance, personalized AI assistants for token holders, AI analysts that assist users in navigating the 

 (DeFi) ecosystem and AI-driven cross-chain operations.

The DuckChain team has made AI integration a key focus for its platform. In January 2025, the project’s communications began frequently referring to DuckChain as the “Telegram AI Chain,” highlighting the importance of AI functionality for the platform's future direction and vision. DuckChain — or the Telegram AI Chain, if you will — is building up an impressive network of partner platforms to realize its AI vision. Among the key AI partner platforms are 

 (FLOCK). Each of these partners will support specific functions and use cases for DuckChain’s AI agents.

DuckChain’s Layer 2 network uses the underlying TON blockchain for finalized transaction settlement. Built using Arbitrum Orbit, it enjoys EVM compatibility, high scalability and low transaction costs. The chain’s architecture includes three primary layers — aggregation, execution and data.

DuckChain’s Aggregation Layer is a component of its blockchain’s architecture, serving as a bridge between DuckChain and TON’s Layer 1 network. It’s made up of three elements: 

The Execution Layer is DuckChain's main processing engine, powered by Arbitrum Orbit technology. In addition to transaction processing, this layer is also responsible for keeping DuckChain synchronized with the Telegram environment.

DuckChain's Execution Layer can handle around 5,000 

 (TPS) thanks to Arbitrum Orbit technology, which facilitates the processing of high volumes of transactions in a scalable and cost-efficient way.

The third component of DuckChain’s architecture, the Data Layer, ensures that all transaction data is securely stored and accessible for verification. DuckChain’s platform uses a distributed mode for its data storage. The Data Layer allows Layer 1 validators to access and securely verify transaction data from the DuckChain Layer 2 network.

DuckChain’s close integration with Telegram creates access to on-chain opportunities for the messenger's nearly 1 billion active users. Telegram users can generate a DuckChain account in a streamlined way, without the usual procedures involved in setting up a blockchain network address. Thanks to DuckChain's integration with the core Telegram app, tedious procedures, such as 

Its blockchain also provides a mechanism to deposit Telegram Stars 

social tokens widely used on the messenger to pay for digital goods 

 and convert them into native crypto assets for DeFi purposes, such as gas payments, 

DuckChain also features a unique unified 

. Besides enabling Telegram Stars for gas payments, its system also lets users pay transaction fees on the network using The Open Network's native TON coin and tokens from compatible EVM chains.

TON coin is among the top twenty crypto assets on the market (as of Feb 10, 2025) by market cap, and features high liquidity levels. Gas payments in TON and popular EVM tokens provide the DuckChain network with sufficient levels of liquidity for transactions at all times.

The Layer 2 chain is a unique platform, offering 

 via DuckChain bridges for three large ecosystems 

 Ethereum, Bitcoin and TON. This cross-chain functionality is of particular note for two reasons. First, it creates opportunities for using DApps among holders of BTC, the world's most-capitalized cryptocurrency. And secondly, it provides a common platform for assets from two large ecosystems — TON and Ethereum — that aren’t natively compatible.

DuckChain's AI module supports several features powered by 

, a technology that’s currently experiencing explosive growth, including in the world of web3. One of these features is AI Governance DAO, powered by the Quack AI protocol. It supports members of the platform's governance DAO by assigning them personalized AI agents that assist the DAO members in analyzing proposals, suggesting new ideas and carrying out other governance processes.

In Q1 2025, the DuckChain project aims to introduce personalized AI agents for all holders of the platform's native token, DUCK. In addition to governance power, these agents will provide their owners with services such as blockchain education, guidance on user procedures and financial analytics.

DuckChain also integrates AI agents for cross-chain interoperability processes and the analysis of DeFi opportunities.

The platform’s native cryptocurrency, DUCK, had its token generation event (TGE) in mid-January 2025. DUCK runs on multiple chains — T

— and its utility functions include the following:

DUCK is currently priced at $0.0032 (as of Feb 11, 2025), and has a total and maximum supply of 10 billion. Its current circulation is 5.9 billion. Supply allocation shares are per the chart below.

In January 2025, DuckChain announced its first 

 campaign, with eligibility criteria determined on Jan 7, 2025. The airdrop was designed to reward two groups of early adopters: 

The airdrop allocation criteria included various factors, such as using on-chain Telegram Stars, the number of friends invited to the platform, using testnet 

 (NFTs), staking earnings, accumulating loyalty points and participating in the asset bridging event.

 as a Perpetual contract with USDT. Under the contract, you can trade DUCK with up to 50x leverage.

The DuckChain project is unique in several ways. First, it’s one of the first Layer 2 platforms for The Open Network — often referred to as TON. It also connects the ecosystems of three major blockchain environments — TON, Ethereum and Bitcoin — thus allowing holders of TON, BTC and Ethereum-compatible tokens to utilize them within DuckChain’s DApps. Very few (if any) web3 projects operating in the industry provide this kind of diversified connectivity.

At the same time, the most crucial feature of DuckChain is undoubtedly its integration with Telegram. The use of Telegram Stars within the platform is a unique feature that should act as a major driver for crypto adoption by the messenger's extensive user community. DuckChain isn't the first blockchain project to leverage Telegram, but it does represent the first major web3 initiative to provide easy monetization of Telegram Stars 

 the primary digital currency of the Telegram social network — within the world of 

If you've stocked up on some Telegram Stars, and are thinking of crypto-related opportunities, DuckChain might be an intriguing platform for you to peruse.

DuckChain (DUCK): Transforming Telegram Into a Crypto Super-App

Grab Up to 5,000 USDT in Rewards

Grab Up to 5,000 USDT in Rewards