Can Trade Policy Be Exploited for Private Benefit?

Tariffs, Power, and Personal Gain: Can Trade Policy Be Exploited for Private Benefit?

In April 2025, global markets surged and plunged in response to sudden tariff moves by President Trump. Billions were lost, then regained-raising serious questions about the intersection of public policy and personal opportunity. This article explores how trade tools have historically benefited powerful leaders and asks what safeguards are needed in a democracy when one individual can move markets.