TLDR
- Trump’s crypto ventures include a $100,000 limited edition watch and $299 sneakers, both accepting cryptocurrency payments
- World Liberty Financial received a $75 million investment from Justin Sun despite regulatory concerns
- Trump Media & Technology Group plans $250 million investment in crypto assets
- Meme coins launched by Trump and Melania saw rapid value fluctuation
- Recent executive orders aim to position US as crypto innovation leader
Donald Trump has rapidly transformed his business empire to embrace digital assets, launching multiple cryptocurrency ventures while implementing policies supporting the industry. The former crypto skeptic now oversees a growing portfolio of digital investments and branded products.
The Trump brand entered the luxury crypto market in early 2025 with the release of the “Crypto President Tourbillon” watch. Limited to 10 pieces and priced at $100,000 each, the timepiece features 229 orange sapphires and requires payment in bitcoin. The watch’s website promotes it as a symbol of “wealth, power, and vision.”
Expanding into more accessible price points, Trump’s licensing agreements include crypto-themed sneakers priced at $299. The orange low-top shoes, scheduled for April 2025 delivery, will have a production run of 400 pairs.
Digital Ventures and Investments
January 2025 marked Trump’s entry into cryptocurrency tokens with the launch of his personal meme coin. The digital asset reached a market capitalization of $15 billion within days before experiencing an $11 billion decrease in value. First Lady Melania Trump followed with her own meme coin launch, expanding the family’s presence in digital currencies.
World Liberty Financial, a decentralized finance platform developed with input from Trump and his sons, secured a $75 million investment from Chinese crypto entrepreneur Justin Sun’s company. The partnership raised eyebrows due to Sun’s ongoing legal challenges, including SEC allegations of price manipulation and claims his company processed transactions linked to designated terrorist organizations.
The platform demonstrated its commitment to Sun’s ecosystem by purchasing $4.7 million of TRON’s TRX token during Inauguration Day, despite regulatory scrutiny surrounding the cryptocurrency.
Trump Media & Technology Group (TMTG), Truth Social’s parent company, announced plans to allocate $250 million toward cryptocurrency investments and decentralized finance services. The company filed trademark applications for “Truth.fi Bitcoin Plus ETF” and “Truth.fi Bitcoin Plus SMA,” suggesting future launches of crypto investment products.
While TMTG reports modest revenues and continued losses, strong supporter backing has maintained its stock value since going public. Trump’s 53% ownership stake currently exceeds $3 billion, though the company maintains he holds no active management role.
Policy and Industry Impact
Speaking at Miami Beach’s FII PRIORITY Summit, Trump outlined executive orders designed to maintain American leadership in artificial intelligence and cryptocurrency innovation. He declared an end to what he characterized as previous administrative restrictions on digital assets, pledging to establish the United States as a global crypto hub.
Trump addressed industry legal challenges during the summit, suggesting that cryptocurrency-related indictments reflected political motivations rather than regulatory concerns. He noted that several cases were dismissed before the election, though specific examples weren’t provided.
The cryptocurrency industry, which provided substantial support during Trump’s campaign, has shown mixed reactions to his business ventures. While some view his involvement as mainstream validation, others express concerns about the intersection of political influence and private enterprise.
Trump’s assets operate through a trust managed by his children, with the former president pledging to maintain separation from business operations during his term. However, this arrangement hasn’t prevented promotion of Trump-branded cryptocurrency products.
TMTG’s planned crypto investment represents its largest strategic move since becoming publicly traded. The company cites portfolio diversification as the primary motivation for directing portions of its $700 million cash reserves toward digital assets.
Recent executive actions reflect Trump’s stated commitment to cryptocurrency adoption, marking a distinct shift from previous regulatory approaches. His administration’s policies particularly contrast with SEC oversight of digital assets.
Trump attributes recent Bitcoin price increases to market confidence in his pro-crypto stance, though market analysts note multiple factors influencing cryptocurrency valuations.
The convergence of Trump’s business interests with cryptocurrency ventures continues to generate industry discussion. His transition from skeptic to advocate parallels broader institutional adoption of digital assets, while raising questions about the balance between government leadership and private sector opportunities.
Stay Ahead of the Market with Benzinga Pro!
Want to trade like a pro? Benzinga Pro gives you the edge you need in today's fast-paced markets. Get real-time news, exclusive insights, and powerful tools trusted by professional traders:
- Breaking market-moving stories before they hit mainstream media
- Live audio squawk for hands-free market updates
- Advanced stock scanner to spot promising trades
- Expert trade ideas and on-demand support