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Fake news about US tariffs misled the media, investors and caused a sharp drop in stock markets
Um rumor spread on X (ex-Twitter) caused a $2,4 trillion swing in the global financial market this Monday (8). In just ten minutes, investors reacted en masse to fake news about tariffs US commercials. The information, denied shortly after by the White House, reveals how the digital disinformation continues to impact entire economies, according to the website Revista Forum.
What happened: fake news with a blue seal
The episode began after a live interview with Kevin Hassett, US economic adviser, told Fox News. Asked about the possible suspension of trade tariffs, he gave vague answers. Soon after, verified accounts began publishing an alleged announcement from the American government.
- The account “Hammer Capital” stated that the US would suspend tariffs on all countries except China.
- The rumor was replicated by profiles with a blue paid badge, confusing users and the press.
- The account “Walter Bloomberg” also spread the information, unrelated to the Bloomberg agency.
- Reuters and CNBC reported it the alleged measure, but they deleted the posts minutes later.
Immediate impact: market reacted in seconds
According to Dow Jones Market Data, the global market lost $2,4 trillion in market value shortly after the rumor spread.
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- Declines in American and European stock markets
- Abrupt swing in the dollar and commodities
- Institutional investors were affected
The White House denied it officially the information still on Monday afternoon, but the damage was already done.
Rumors that became reality: experiment showed the danger
In 2023, the streamer Zealand did an experiment:
- Created a player transfer rumor Ismaila Sarr to Everton.
- Verified accounts spread the false information.
- Betting sites have adjusted the odds in more than 300% in a few minutes.
"I was disturbed by how easy it was to manipulate the system.”, said Zealand, after seeing his test go viral globally.
