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Disinformation on X Causes Market Instability and Moves $2.4 Trillion in Minutes

Written by Roberta Souza
Published on 14/04/2025 at 21:30
Updated on 14/04/2025 at 21:31
EUA, fake news,
Foto: Olhar Digital
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Fake News About US Tariffs Misled Media, Investors, and Caused a Sharp Drop in Markets

A rumor spread on X (formerly Twitter) caused a $2.4 trillion fluctuation in the global financial market this Monday (8). In just ten minutes, investors reacted en masse to a false news story about US trade tariffs. The information, denied shortly afterward by the White House, reveals how digital misinformation continues to impact entire economies, according to the site Revista Forum.

What Happened: Fake News with a Blue Check

The episode began after a live interview with Kevin Hassett, economic advisor to the US, on Fox News. When asked about the possible suspension of trade tariffs, he gave vague answers. Shortly after, verified accounts began to publish a supposed announcement from the US government.

  • The account “Hammer Capital” claimed that the US would suspend tariffs for all countries except China.
  • The rumor was replicated by paid blue check profiles, confusing users and news outlets.
  • The account “Walter Bloomberg” also spread the information, unrelated to Bloomberg News.
  • Reuters and CNBC reported the supposed measure but deleted the posts minutes later.
YouTube Video

Immediate Impact: Market Reacted in Seconds

According to Dow Jones Market Data, the global market lost $2.4 trillion in market value right after the rumor spread.

  • Drops in American and European stock markets
  • Sudden fluctuations in the dollar and commodities
  • Institutional investors were affected

The White House officially denied the information still in the afternoon of Monday, but the damage was already done.

Rumors That Became Reality: Experiment Showed the Danger

In 2023, streamer Zealand did an experiment:

  • Created a rumor about the transfer of player Ismaïla Sarr to Everton.
  • Verified accounts spread the false information.
  • Betting sites adjusted the odds by over 300% in just a few minutes.

I was disturbed by how easy it was to manipulate the system,” said Zealand after seeing his test go viral globally.

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Roberta Souza

Author for the Click Petróleo e Gás portal since 2019, responsible for publishing over 8,000 articles that have garnered millions of views, combining technical expertise, clarity, and engagement to inform and connect readers. A Petroleum Engineer with a postgraduate degree in Industrial Unit Commissioning, I also bring practical experience and background in the agribusiness sector, which broadens my perspective and versatility in producing specialized content. I develop content topics, disseminate job opportunities, and create advertising materials tailored for the industry audience. For content suggestions, job vacancy promotion, or advertising proposals, please contact via email: santizatagpc@gmail.com. We do not accept resumes

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