Wondering how is the stock market right now? As of October 2025, global markets are navigating a complex landscape shaped by trade policy changes, rising sovereign debt, and the growing influence of digital assets like Bitcoin and Ethereum. This article breaks down the latest market trends, key economic drivers, and what they mean for both traditional and crypto investors.
On October 26, 2025, the United States and Thailand announced a significant trade agreement. The US imposed a 19% tariff on Thai goods, while Thailand eliminated tariffs on 99% of American exports. According to official statements, this move aims to enhance transparency and competitiveness in bilateral trade. The immediate market response was positive: Thailand’s Stock Exchange (SET) rose by 0.79% on optimism for improved US market access (Source: Coincu, October 26, 2025).
This agreement positions Thailand more favorably within ASEAN, especially compared to Vietnam’s 20% tariff rate. The deal is also expected to accelerate digitalization and blockchain adoption in supply chains, reflecting broader regional trends.
Another major factor influencing how is the stock market right now is the US national debt, which surpassed $38 trillion in 2025. This marks the fastest $1 trillion increase outside the COVID-19 period. Persistent budget deficits, rising interest costs, and increased government spending are driving this trend. Annual interest payments have ballooned above $880 billion and are projected to exceed $1.8 trillion by 2035 (Source: Peter G. Peterson Foundation).
Economists warn that the US debt-to-GDP ratio, now near 124%, is on a concerning trajectory. While inflation remains under control compared to 2022, core inflation is still above 3%, and real wage growth has stagnated. Investors are increasingly seeking safe havens, turning to assets like Bitcoin, gold, and government bonds to hedge against potential dollar debasement.
Digital assets are playing a growing role in shaping how is the stock market right now. Bitcoin’s fixed supply of 21 million coins makes it attractive as a hedge against currency dilution. After the 2020 stimulus, Bitcoin surged from $9,000 to over $60,000 by 2021, demonstrating its sensitivity to monetary expansion. However, during periods of tight monetary policy, both Bitcoin and traditional stocks have faced downward pressure.
Institutional adoption is accelerating in 2025. Major asset managers like T. Rowe Price, VanEck, and BlackRock have launched or filed for crypto ETFs, attracting billions in inflows. Over 155 crypto ETF filings are currently awaiting regulatory review. This shift is moving Bitcoin from a niche asset to a mainstream investment vehicle, similar to gold’s evolution two decades ago.
Ethereum (ETH) also remains a key player, with a price of $4,067.28 and a market cap of $490.91 billion as of October 26, 2025. Its 24-hour trading volume surged by 52.29%, and it gained 7.08% over the past 90 days (Source: CoinMarketCap).
Despite growing legitimacy, some critics argue that Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies still behave like high-beta tech assets, closely tracking the Nasdaq rather than acting as true safe havens. Recent liquidations of over $700 million in leveraged crypto positions highlight ongoing market volatility.
Meanwhile, the US dollar index (DXY) remains strong, indicating continued international confidence in US debt and Treasury market liquidity. This suggests that, for now, the dollar’s status as a global reserve currency is intact, even as alternative assets gain traction.
The new US-Thailand trade agreement is expected to drive further blockchain integration in supply chains. Regulatory advancements and digitalization efforts are likely to support compliance and transparency, benefiting both exporters and importers. These trends align with broader moves across ASEAN to modernize trade infrastructure and enhance competitiveness.
For those asking how is the stock market right now, the answer is: it’s a period of transition. Traditional markets are adapting to new trade realities and fiscal pressures, while digital assets are gaining institutional acceptance. Investors should stay informed about macroeconomic shifts, regulatory changes, and technological innovations that could impact both stocks and crypto.
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