What Rising Gold and New Tariffs Signal for iGaming, Crypto, and Fintech

Despite only being a few months into 2025, this year has been marked by economic uncertainty, and gold is once again reflecting that. Often seen as a barometer of global instability, the precious metal has surged in value over recent months. After passing the $3,000 threshold in mid-March, it continued to climb — first past $3,300, and now above $3,400 per ounce.

Behind the surge lies a convergence of destabilising forces. Inflation concerns remain in many parts of the world despite efforts to bring it under control. Central banks, especially in emerging markets, are buying gold to diversify their reserves and reduce reliance on traditional currencies. Meanwhile, global tensions — including ongoing conflicts, political instability, and fluctuating interest rate policies — are contributing to a risk-averse investment climate.

Gold tends to perform well in times like these because it’s viewed as a safe store of value. Unlike currencies or equities, gold isn’t directly tied to a central bank or business cycle. When markets are volatile or hard to predict, investors often turn to it as a way to protect their wealth.

Why Markets are Becoming More Unstable

At the same time, international trade is becoming more complicated. Tariffs are being reintroduced across major economies, raising the cost and complexity of cross-border business. A few weeks ago, Donald Trump announced plans for broad global tariffs. Since then, he’s shifted his position slightly on China, adding to the uncertainty. Businesses are watching closely, unsure of what to expect next.

Trade barriers are taking shape in the form of import duties, retaliatory tariffs, and tighter export regulations. For companies operating across borders, especially in high-risk sectors like iGaming, cryptocurrency, and fintech, these changes can have a direct impact. Payment delays, increased costs, and compliance risks are becoming more common. In some cases, they can put real pressure on cash flow and margins.

It just shows how quickly conditions can shift — and how exposed businesses are to forces beyond their control. In high-risk industries like iGaming, cryptocurrency, and fintech, where operations depend on fast, frictionless, and global transactions, this kind of volatility isn’t just inconvenient — it’s disruptive.

How LAG Merchant Group Helps Businesses Stay in Control

At LAG Merchant Group, we help businesses deal with uncertainty by giving them the tools to keep their financial operations running smoothly, even when markets are anything but.

In high-risk industries like iGaming, cryptocurrency, and fintech, where delays and disruptions can have serious consequences, it’s essential to have systems in place that can handle pressure. Our services are built to do exactly that: reduce risk, improve reliability, and help you stay in control.

Multi-Currency Support

Exchange rate swings can hit margins hard. Our multi-currency accounts let you hold and transact in a range of currencies, so you’re less exposed to sudden changes in value. It’s a simple way to improve stability and take the guesswork out of global payments.

Smart Global Payment Routing

Fast, cost-effective payments are a must, especially when working across borders. Our payment routing technology finds the best path for your transactions, cutting down on fees and delays. That means quicker settlements, fewer failed transfers, and better cash flow.

Compliance Expertise

Rules and regulations are always changing, especially in industries that move quickly. We stay on top of what’s required so you don’t have to. From anti-money laundering checks to cross-border payment regulations, our team helps you stay compliant and avoid unnecessary fines or roadblocks.

At LAG Merchant Group, we give your business the support it needs to stay steady, even when conditions are anything but. In uncertain times, it pays to have a financial partner you can rely on — because when everything else feels volatile, stability is worth its weight in gold.

Contact us today to see how our payment solutions, risk controls, and compliance support can help your business stay strong, stable, and ready for whatever the market throws your way.