In the complex dynamics of the global economy, it is sometimes difficult to discern what is cause and what is effect. Not surprisingly, however, the Chinese yuan has dropped 9 percent against the U.S. dollar since mid-April amidst the trade sanctions being imposed between the U.S. and China. This is the most recent significant devaluation since 2015 and it is also the biggest drop in the yuan in about 25 years. 

Obviously, the imposition of tariffs on Chinese goods – and the threat of more – has impacted the yuan’s value. Additionally, the strong economic growth in the U.S. is supporting the value of the dollar. However, the yuan is a managed currency, limited to moving within a 2 percent band, and it is likely tha...