Core Viewpoint - The potential freezing of China's $3.4 trillion overseas assets by the West in the event of a Taiwan Strait conflict could have severe economic repercussions for both China and the United States, with the latter facing a GDP decline of 8%-15% while China could manage a recession of less than 5% [1][3]. Group 1: Economic Impact - The freezing of Chinese assets could lead to a 30% depreciation of the Renminbi, skyrocketing import costs, and a potential global recession, with the WTO estimating a $3 trillion contraction in global trade due to US-China tensions [3]. - The total foreign assets in China amount to $5.8 trillion, which includes significant investments from major companies like Apple and Tesla, indicating a potential vulnerability for Western firms if China retaliates [4]. Group 2: Retaliatory Measures - China has the capability to implement reciprocal asset freezes, which could severely impact Western companies operating in China, such as Starbucks and Apple, leading to substantial revenue losses [4][5]. - The export controls on gallium and germanium have already demonstrated China's ability to influence global supply chains, with significant price increases and production cuts in the US military sector [6]. Group 3: Financial Leverage - China's reduction of US Treasury holdings from $1.3 trillion to approximately $800 billion poses a threat to US fiscal stability, with potential increases in bond yields and interest payments if China were to sell off its remaining holdings [7]. - The rise of the Renminbi as a trade financing currency, surpassing the Euro, and the establishment of the CIPS payment system indicate a shift away from dollar dependency, which could destabilize the US dollar's dominance [7][9]. Group 4: Mutual Dependence - The interdependence between the US and China means that any economic sanctions or asset freezes could lead to significant price increases in the US, affecting consumer goods and agricultural products [9]. - China's strategic preparations, including increasing gold reserves and diversifying foreign exchange holdings, are aimed at mitigating risks associated with potential US sanctions [9][11]. Group 5: Conclusion of the Analysis - The analysis suggests that freezing Chinese assets could trigger a global economic crisis, with both nations holding significant leverage over each other, indicating that neither side would emerge as a clear winner in this financial standoff [11].