The Current Economic Landscape (August 2025)

The world is facing a growth slowdown: global GDP is expected to be ~3.0% in 2025, down from ~3.3% in 2024—reflecting sluggish demand and trade headwinds.

Emerging markets are faring somewhat better, but most regions are seeing growth dip below pre‑pandemic rates.

Trade policy uncertainty, especially due to U.S. tariffs introduced earlier this year, continues to weigh heavily on global economic sentiment.

In the U.S., concerns about stagflation—rising inflation even amid flat growth—are causing volatility in markets and uncertainty over whether rate cuts will materialize.

Meanwhile, global investor sentiment is shifting as the strength of the U.S. dollar surprises many and capital flows favor domestic assets over emerging markets.

Crypto in This Climate: Challenges and Opportunities

Why Bitcoin and Stablecoins Matter

In volatile markets, Bitcoin stands out as an alternative store of value—albeit a volatile one. Its deflationary design can appeal to investors wary of inflation and currency devaluation, though it's not a perfect inflation hedge.

Stablecoins, especially USD-backed ones, offer a digital alternative for cross-border payments, enabling faster settlement and avoiding traditional banking delays and fees—a benefit for businesses and individual users alike.

Risks and Caveats

Bitcoin tends to drop sharply in recessionary environments; for instance, it fell nearly 27% from its early‑2025 high during the April correction tied to tariff shocks.

Research also shows Bitcoin may react negatively to inflation surprises, weakening confidence in its role as a safe haven during sudden rate shocks.

How Unbank Can Help Navigate These Turbulent Times

Here's how Unbank’s model—especially cash-based crypto access and stablecoin usage—can be especially fitting now:

1. Access Without a Bank Account

Unbank enables people to convert cash to crypto at thousands of retail locations. This empowers those excluded from traditional financial systems to participate in digital finance.

2. Quick, Low-Cost Transfers

Using stablecoins, users can conduct faster and more cost-effective payments than via banks, which matters in economies strained by tariff volatility and slow remittance networks.

3. A Digital Hedge

While Bitcoin is volatile, holding it gives users access to a digital store of value that isn’t tied to banks or local currencies, offering alternative exposure in uncertain times.

4. Liquidity on Demand

Unbank helps users convert seamlessly between cash and crypto—even moving to USD-based stablecoins quickly in a pinch—supporting flexibility in a shifting financial landscape.

5. Education and Trust Tools

Unbank stands out by simplifying onboarding and emphasizing user education—crucial in times when crypto is polarizing or misunderstood.

A practical approach to building a balanced portfolio strategy using Unbank. To preserve value and avoid the volatility of local currencies, users can hold USD-backed stablecoins, which offer a more stable store of value. When looking to hedge against inflation or a weakening dollar, Unbank makes it easy to gain controlled exposure to Bitcoin, especially during key market moments like anticipated interest rate cuts.

Unbank enables fast, low-cost payments by letting users send stablecoins without the burden of bank or foreign exchange fees. When it’s time to convert back to cash, Unbank allows seamless redemption of both stablecoins and Bitcoin at retail locations. And to round out your financial toolkit, Unbank offers educational resources to help you manage risk, avoid scams, and secure your crypto wallet with confidence.

What Are You Going To Do?

Yes, global growth is slowing, inflation and trade uncertainty abound, and markets are choppy right now. Crypto—including Bitcoin and stablecoins—can offer valuable flexibility and alternative options. While Bitcoin's volatility requires caution, stablecoins and cash-based access via Unbank can empower users to transact efficiently, preserve value, and stay nimble.