The U.S. Court of International Trade has ruled that Trump tariffs were ruled illegal, causing immediate reverberations across markets. Equities surged on relief over trade clarity, while Bitcoin dropped due to shifting risk appetite. The ruling restricts presidential trade powers and signals new challenges ahead for both conventional and crypto investors.
U.S. Court Rules Trump Tariffs Ruled Illegal, Limiting Executive Authority

The U.S. Court of International Trade has ruled that Trump tariffs ruled illegal, stating that former President Donald Trump exceeded his powers under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) of 1977. The ruling on May 28, 2025, clarified that only Congress has the authority to impose broad tariffs, not the president acting alone.
The tariffs, known as “Liberation Day tariffs,” were introduced as emergency measures targeting trade imbalances and national security concerns. However, the court found that applying emergency powers on such a wide scale breached constitutional limits. This decision marks a significant shift in U.S. trade law and has substantial implications for international markets.
Market Response: Stocks Rally as Bitcoin Declines
After the announcement that Trump tariffs ruled illegal, U.S. stock markets responded positively. The Dow Jones Industrial Average climbed 520 points (1.2%), the S&P 500 rose 1.7%, and the Nasdaq gained nearly 2%, reflecting relief among investors regarding trade uncertainties.
Conversely, Bitcoin suffered a notable drop. It declined about 3.36%, falling from $111,620 to roughly $107,750 soon after the news broke. Analysts attribute this fall to investors reallocating capital from cryptocurrencies back into traditional assets like stocks and ETFs. The phrase Trump tariffs ruled illegal acted as a catalyst for a shift away from riskier assets.
Bitcoin’s price movement highlights the increasing sensitivity of digital currencies to macroeconomic and regulatory developments.
Appeals Court Grants Stay Amid Ongoing Litigation
Despite the initial ruling that Trump tariffs ruled illegal, the Trump legal team promptly appealed. A federal appeals court issued a temporary stay, allowing the tariffs to remain in place during the legal review. This extension sustains uncertainty for businesses and investors.
Experts predict the case could reach the Supreme Court, with far-reaching consequences for trade policy and the balance of powers. Until a final verdict, companies face challenges in adjusting supply chains and compliance measures.
Effects on Cryptocurrency and Future Trade Regulations

The ruling that Trump tariffs illegal introduces new complexities to the cryptocurrency space. While it does not directly affect digital currencies, it exemplifies how government decisions on trade impact decentralized financial markets.
Proponents of blockchain argue that traditional market instability strengthens the case for cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin. Nevertheless, this ruling prompted a cautious retreat from crypto, as investors sought safer assets.
The decision may revive bipartisan discussions about digital trade, taxation of crypto assets, and blockchain’s role in global commerce. Increased congressional oversight might lead to clearer regulations for cryptocurrencies embedded in future trade policies.
Conclusion: Navigating Market Shifts Following Trump Tariffs Ruled Illegal
The ruling that Trump tariffs were ruled illegal signals a pivotal moment in trade law and economic policy. Investors should recognize the ongoing influence of geopolitical events on both conventional markets and cryptocurrencies.
Though Bitcoin’s price fell temporarily, the broader debate on decentralization and regulatory frameworks will continue. As legal proceedings progress, market participants must brace for a more regulated yet potentially stable environment.