Binance CEO Richard Teng shared his belief that growing macro instability and U.S. protectionism may ultimately strengthen the case for Bitcoin and other digital assets.

Binance CEO Richard Teng said that rising global uncertainty — driven in part by renewed U.S. protectionist policies — may ultimately accelerate crypto adoption, even if the short-term outlook remains shaky.

In a post on X, Teng pointed to U.S. President Donald Trump’s push for new tariffs as a signal of surging protectionism, which he said is creating “significant volatility across global markets.” 

Crypto markets, he noted, have not been spared from the turbulence.

“This kind of macro uncertainty tends to trigger a risk-off response,” Teng wrote, referring to investors retreating from volatile assets during times of economic and political stress. But over a longer horizon, Teng argued that the same instability could strengthen crypto’s appeal.

“Looking further ahead, this environment could also accelerate interest in crypto as a non-sovereign store of value,” he wrote. 

Teng highlighted that many long-term holders still view Bitcoin (BTC) and other digital assets as resilient assets during periods of policy shifts and economic pressure.

Hedge against market fears

While short-term sentiment may remain cautious, Teng’s comments reflect a broader view among crypto leaders who see the sector’s decentralized foundations as a hedge against growing geopolitical and fiscal unpredictability.

Donald Trump’s announcement of tariffs on “Liberation Day” led to significant uncertainty in global markets and caused considerable volatility. 

These tariffs specifically targeted key U.S. trade partners, imposing levies on imports to leverage negotiations. Trump’s strategy is consistent with his previous trade policies, employing economic pressure to achieve more advantageous terms for the U.S. economy.