Šejk Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan a další investoři podporují 49% podíl v holdingu za plánovanou americkou bankou World Liberty Financial. Banka má spravovat USD1, dolarový stablecoin projektu.
Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan and co-investors are backing a 49% stake in the holding company behind World Liberty Financial’s planned US bank, according to The Wall Street Journal.
Tahnoon, the United Arab Emirates’ national security adviser and brother of the country’s president, is part of an investment group that holds the largest stake in the entity created to house World Liberty’s banking venture.
The arrangement expands the relationship between the Abu Dhabi royal and the Trump family-backed crypto company. Tahnoon previously backed a $500 million investment in World Liberty Financial in exchange for a 49% stake in the company, the Journal reported.
The disclosure comes after the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency granted preliminary conditional approval earlier this month for World Liberty Trust Company, National Association. OCC records show the charter application was approved on Aug. 14.
The federally chartered national trust bank is intended to issue, redeem and safeguard USD1, World Liberty’s dollar-backed stablecoin.
Tahnoon oversees an investment network spanning his personal wealth and state-backed entities, with assets exceeding $1.3 trillion, according to the Journal.
The new banking venture further deepens World Liberty’s ties to the UAE as the company expands its stablecoin operations and financial infrastructure in the US.
Disclosure: This article was edited by Editorial Team. For more information on how we create and review content, see our Editorial Policy.
World Liberty Financial spustila USD1 nativně na Canton Network, aby instituce mohly vypořádávat tokenizovaná reálná aktiva. Stablecoin s kapitalizací asi 4,05 miliardy USD je šestý největší na trhu.
World Liberty Financial launches USD1 natively on Canton NetworkLatest NewsPublishedAug 25, 2026
USD1 is the sixth-largest stablecoin, with a market capitalization of more than $4 billion, according to industry data.
World Liberty Financial has launched its USD1 stablecoin natively on the Canton Network, allowing institutions to use it to settle transactions involving tokenized real-world assets.
The stablecoin can be used as the cash leg for transactions including derivatives collateral, institutional lending, asset issuance and redemptions, according to a Tuesday announcement.
Native issuance allows USD1 to settle alongside tokenized assets in the same transaction while using Canton’s privacy and permissioning controls.
USD1 has a market capitalization of about $4.05 billion, making it the sixth-largest stablecoin, according to DeFiLlama data. The stablecoin is issued by BitGo Bank & Trust, which manages its reserves and processes mints and redemptions, according to World Liberty.
World Liberty Financial is a Trump family-backed crypto venture launched in 2024. USD1 debuted in March 2025 and is backed by reserves including short-term US Treasurys, government money market funds and dollar deposits, according to the company.
Canton, a public, permissionless blockchain designed for institutional finance, says it processes and issues more than $9 trillion in tokenized assets each month, with more than $350 billion in onchain US Treasurys moving across the network daily.
The integration follows another Canton expansion announced last week, when Digital Asset and former US House Speaker Paul Ryan’s American Idea Foundation unveiled plans to pilot a Canton-based system for distributing state-administered benefits across three US states beginning in 2027.
Magazine: Bitget CEO isn’t buying the Bitcoin rally — She’s waiting for $50K
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World Liberty Financial uvedla, že cirkulace USD1 přesáhla 4 miliardy USD. CEO Zach Witkoff tvrdí, že růst táhne institucionální poptávka, ne vazby na Trumpovu rodinu.
TLDR World Liberty Financial says USD1 stablecoin circulation has topped $4 billion, driven by institutional demand. CEO Zach Witkoff denies that political ties to the Trump family fueled the growth. MGX used USD1 for its $2 billion Binance investment in 2025, an early institutional use case. The OCC gave preliminary approval for a related trust bank on August 14. Lawmakers continue to question foreign ownership links tied to the company. World Liberty Financial says its USD1 stablecoin has grown past $4 billion in circulation. The company’s CEO, Zach Witkoff, says the growth reflects real demand rather than political favors.
Witkoff made the comments after CNBC reported on the story on August 25. He said USD1’s growth shows the token is being used regardless of any ties to President Donald Trump’s administration.
The comments came shortly after federal regulators gave early approval for a new trust bank tied to the company.
How USD1 Has Grown Since Launch USD1 launched in March 2025. It is a dollar backed digital token, meaning each coin is supposed to be backed by cash and similar safe assets held at financial institutions.
The token became one of the larger dollar backed cryptocurrencies in the market. Its early growth was tied closely to one large deal.
Abu Dhabi backed investment fund MGX used USD1 to complete a $2 billion investment in the crypto exchange Binance in May 2025. Witkoff announced the deal at a conference in Dubai, calling USD1 the official settlement token for the transaction.
That single deal gave USD1 a boost in credibility. But it also tied much of its supply to one exchange.
A Forbes report from February, based on data from Arkham Intelligence, found that wallets linked to Binance and its customers held close to $4.7 billion in USD1. That made up about 87 percent of the token’s total supply at the time.
Circulation has since dropped below that peak level. World Liberty Financial says it remains above $4 billion today.
The stablecoin is currently available on several exchanges, including Coinbase, Kraken, and Crypto.com.
Regulatory Approval and Political Questions On August 14, the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency gave preliminary conditional approval to World Liberty Trust Company. The application had been filed by WLTC Holdings LLC back in January.
Under the proposed structure, the trust would issue and redeem USD1 tokens. It would also manage reserves and provide custody services, work currently handled by BitGo.
The trust would not offer retail banking services. It would not take deposits, offer checking accounts, or issue loans.
Political scrutiny of the company has grown alongside its business. According to Reuters, a firm connected to the Trump family controls 38 percent of World Liberty Financial’s parent company.
Zach Witkoff is the son of Steve Witkoff, who serves as a Trump envoy and is also an emeritus founder of the crypto company.
The White House has said Trump’s business assets are held in a trust controlled by his children. It has also said Trump is not personally managing World Liberty Financial while in office.
Scrutiny increased further after reports that an investment vehicle called Aryam Investment 1 took a 49 percent stake in World Liberty Financial for $500 million. That vehicle is backed by UAE National Security Adviser Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who also chairs MGX.
In June, Democratic senators called for hearings into the deal. They want to know whether it played any role in decisions about selling weapons or advanced AI chips to other countries.
The OCC has said foreign investors cannot serve as principal shareholders of the proposed bank. Several investors reportedly signed agreements limiting their control over the bank’s operations to address that requirement.
For now, World Liberty Financial says USD1 remains above the $4 billion mark, and the trust bank application continues moving through the federal approval process.
Public Citizen uvedl, že Trump a jeho rodina od roku 2022 nechali investory v digitálních aktivech v odhadovaném minusu 4,7 miliardy USD. Největší ztráty, 3,2 miliardy USD, připadly na memecoin TRUMP.
The nonprofit consumer advocacy organization Public Citizen reported that US President Donald Trump “left investors at least an estimated $4.7 billion underwater” since 2022 through his and his family’s digital asset ventures.
According to Public Citizen, investors lost billions of dollars through the Trump family World Liberty Financial governance token, the president’s nonfungible token (NFT) trading cards launched in 2022, his memecoin Official Trump (TRUMP) and Trump Media’s digital asset treasury.
The bulk of the estimated losses, according to the organization, came from investors in the TRUMP memecoin, with $3.2 billion lost, while buyers of World Liberty Financial‘s USD1 stablecoin “haven’t suffered major losses.” Public Citizen said that in the case of the memecoin, the losses represented “wealth transferred to a small group of early buyers rather than money that simply vanished.”
Estimated losses for investors in Donald Trump’s crypto ventures. Source: Public Citizen
According to Public Citizen, amid the $4.7 billion in investor losses, Trump earned $7.2 million from the NFT licensing fees and royalties, more than $600 million from World Liberty token sales and selling an equity stake, $635 million in licensing fees for his memecoin and $197 million in revenue from capital contributions to World Liberty. This did not reflect the stakes in companies and ventures he continues to hold. Some of the figures were included in the president’s 2025 disclosures, reporting $1.4 billion in earnings tied to crypto.
Cointelegraph reached out to the White House for comment but did not receive an immediate response. Spokesperson Anna Kelly has repeatedly said in response to questions on Trump’s crypto investments that there were “no conflicts of interest.”
Crypto bill still weeks away from potential voteAmid the crypto ventures and more “potentially on the way” from Trump, the group renewed calls for ethics provisions in a cryptocurrency market structure bill, the Digital Asset Market Clarity (CLARITY) Act, claiming that “the president’s policy choices and personal portfolio cannot be separated” and any legislation should require a US president and his family to divest from projects in the industry.
Trump met with crypto company executives last week, calling for a “fair version” of the CLARITY Act to pass once the Senate returns to session next month. The bill is scheduled for a cloture vote on Sept. 15, which will require votes from at least 60 senators to advance.
Cointelegraph is committed to independent, transparent journalism. This news article is produced in accordance with Cointelegraph’s Editorial Policy and aims to provide accurate and timely information. Readers are encouraged to verify information independently.
USD1 od World Liberty získal nové využití díky RWA Vaultu od Concrete na Ethereum, který cílí na 8% APY. Vault směruje vklady do remitencí, soukromého úvěru, evropských půjček a financování datacenter.
@WorldLibertyFi's $USD1 stablecoin has gained a significant new use case through a real-world asset (RWA) Vault built by @ConcreteXYZ, positioning the token as a yield-generating instrument backed by real economic activity rather than a simple payment tool.
What the Vault Does The vault, which operates on Ethereum, is open to whitelisted liquidity providers and targets an 8% APY, according to Concrete's platform. It channels $USD1 deposits into a diversified set of asset classes, all routed through the same execution layer.
The four core strategies inside the vault are:
1. Cross-border remittance settlement through @ZIGChain Markets.
2. Tokenized private credit through @Qiro_Finance.
3. Asset-backed European loans via @ColbFinance.
4. Data center financing using Origin Assets.
The structure means $USD1 holders can earn yield from diversified real-world exposure without having to source or manage individual RWA positions themselves.
USD1's Expanding Role in DeFi and RWA The Concrete integration is part of a broader push to deepen $USD1's on-chain utility.
The Concrete RWA Vault extends that momentum into the tokenized asset space, where real-world yields are increasingly being routed on-chain.
The move signals a clear strategic shift: $USD1 is being developed not only as a settlement or payment layer, but as a foundational asset for structured, yield-bearing DeFi products.
Sources
Concrete XYZ Earn Platform (RWA USD1 Vault details)
CoinDesk: World Liberty Financial Launches DeFi Lending Platform for USD1
RWA.xyz: USD1 Asset Overview
Aster spustil první fázi kampaně odměn pro trhy USD1 a RWA a do konce roku 2026 rozdělí 250 milionů WLFI a 12,5 milionu USD1. USD1 je nyní výhradním vypořádacím aktivem pro všechny RWA a komoditní kontrakty Aster.
A Two-Pool Reward Structure Running Through Year-EndAster DEX has launched the first phase of its USD1 real-world asset (RWA) rewards campaign, running through December 31, 2026. The initiative is part of a broader partnership between Aster and World Liberty Financial (@worldlibertyfi), which has been positioning ethereum:0xda5e1988097297dcdc1f90d4dfe7909e847cbef6 as the base settlement layer for RWA perpetual markets on the platform.
The campaign distributes rewards across two independent pools. The combined growth fund holds 250 million WLFI tokens from World Liberty Financial and 12.5 million USD1 contributed by Aster. Of the WLFI allocation, 125 million tokens will be distributed based on eligible open interest, while a further 6.25 million USD1 will be allocated according to eligible trading volume. Because open interest and volume are tracked independently, traders can qualify for both pools simultaneously.
Aster is also offering a 2x open interest boost for eligible USD1-denominated RWA positions. The boost applies in full when traders use USD1 exclusively as collateral through Single Asset Mode. In Multi Asset Mode, USD1 must represent more than 50% of average collateral for the boost to apply.
USD1 as the Settlement Layer for RWA PerpsAster has listed SPCXUSD1, CLUSD1, XAUUSD1, SNDKUSD1 and SKHYNIXUSD1 under its AOS-2 standard, which sets the framework for new perpetual listings on the platform. The listed markets include assets linked to SpaceX, crude oil, gold, Sandisk and SK Hynix. USD1 is now the exclusive settlement asset for all of Aster's RWA and commodity contracts.
USD1 is a US-dollar stablecoin issued by World Liberty Financial and custodied by BitGo Trust Company, backed by cash, short-duration US Treasury bills, and government money market funds. Launched on Ethereum and BNB Chain in March 2025, it had grown to a circulating supply of roughly $4 billion by mid-2026. For World Liberty Financial, the Aster arrangement drives utility for USD1 beyond transfers and lending, as every open position locks USD1 as collateral and every trade generates settlement volume.
For Aster, the commodity expansion tracks with its transformation from a crypto-only perp DEX into a multi-asset trading platform. The exchange already offers perpetuals on US equities alongside its core crypto derivatives and recently launched the genesis phase of Aster Chain, a privacy-focused Layer 1 using zero-knowledge proofs.
Sources:
CryptoNinjas: Aster Launches Five USD1 RWA Perpetual Markets
Dealroom: Aster Launches USD1-Settled RWA Perpetuals with $28M Liquidity Fund
The Defiant: Aster to Settle RWA Perps Exclusively in USD1
World Liberty Financial získala předběžné schválení od OCC pro národní bankovní trustovou licenci. To může zkomplikovat snahu Senátu prosadit Clarity Act.
World Liberty Financial, a crypto venture backed by the Trump family, has received preliminary approval from the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) for a national bank trust charter. This development could potentially disrupt efforts by the U.S. Senate to pass the Clarity Act, a significant crypto market-structure bill. The Clarity Act, which has already cleared the Senate Banking Committee, is now facing uncertainty as the Senate has adjourned without a final vote. The approval allows World Liberty Financial to manage its USD1 stablecoin under a federally chartered trust bank, subject to regulatory conditions. Pricing in prediction markets appears to reflect a decreased likelihood of the Clarity Act being signed into law this year, with the odds currently at 23.5% for a YES outcome, down from 26% just 24 hours ago.
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Key Takeaways Market pricing suggests a decreased likelihood of the Clarity Act being signed into law in 2026, now at 23.5% YES. The preliminary approval for World Liberty Financial’s trust charter could complicate the legislative process for the Clarity Act. The Clarity Act had previously gained momentum but now faces new challenges as the Senate adjourns without a vote. What to Watch Observers should monitor any developments regarding the Clarity Act’s progress once the Senate reconvenes. Key actors such as President Donald Trump and Senate leaders like Chuck Schumer and Tim Scott could influence the bill’s trajectory. Market participants may also react to any further regulatory actions involving World Liberty Financial, which could impact the legislative environment for crypto regulation. The situation remains fluid, and further announcements from political leaders will be crucial in determining the likelihood of the Clarity Act’s passage.
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Clarity Act Signed Into Law In 2026
Contract Odds Δ since publish Volume 24h January 1 2027 23.5% — — View market → What Price Will Xrp Hit In August 2026
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Justin Sun uvedl, že soud v Kalifornii nepostoupil všechny jeho nároky vůči World Liberty Financial do soukromé arbitráže. Spor o zmrazené WLFI tokeny tak zůstává částečně před federálním soudem.
Justin Sun claims to have won a first round against World Liberty Financial. On August 20, a federal judge in California reportedly refused to send all of his claims to private arbitration. This decision comes just days after the conditional green light granted by the OCC to World Liberty Trust Company, which is set to resume issuing the USD1 stablecoin.
In brief According to Justin Sun, Judge James Donato refused to submit all his claims to private arbitration, maintaining his individual claims before the federal court. On August 14, the OCC granted preliminary conditional approval to World Liberty Trust Company, which plans to take over the issuance of USD1 and management of its reserves from BitGo. The fate of claims filed by Blue Anthem and Black Anthem remains to be determined. The written order regarding the August 20 hearing was not yet publicly available at the time of writing. Justin Sun obtains the maintenance of part of the case before the court The standoff between Justin Sun and World Liberty Financial has been going on for several months. The founder of Tron, who bought $45 million worth of WLFI tokens, brought the case before a federal court in San Francisco in April.
This dispute between WLFI and Justin Sun notably concerns the freezing of his tokens and the control powers that World Liberty would have integrated into the WLFI contract.
On June 2, World Liberty Financial asked Judge James Donato to force the plaintiffs to go through arbitration and to suspend the judicial procedure. The hearing on this request took place on August 20.
At its outcome, Sun stated that his personal claims would remain publicly reviewed before the federal court. In other words, World Liberty did not get the transfer of the entire dispute to a private procedure.
This distinction matters. Indeed, arbitration generally allows settling a conflict outside of public hearings and with much more limited visibility on exchanged documents.
However, nothing has yet been decided on the merits. Blue Anthem Limited and Black Anthem Limited, two companies also parties to the complaint, have their own claims. Their treatment remains under discussion. Importantly, the written order from the judge was not yet publicly available at the time of writing this article.
World Liberty prepares in parallel its bank for USD1 The timeline adds another dimension to the case. On August 14, six days before the hearing, the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency granted a preliminary conditional approval to World Liberty Trust Company.
The future national trust bank is to take charge of issuing and redeeming USD1, as well as managing its reserves. It plans to take over these activities from BitGo, which currently serves this role.
But World Liberty Trust cannot start its operations yet. Final authorization depends on meeting several conditions imposed by the OCC.
The bank must notably have at least $20 million in Tier 1 capital. It must also maintain sufficient liquid assets to cover 180 days of operational expenses and notify the regulator before any significant changes to its business model.
The OCC also retains the possibility to modify, suspend, or withdraw its preliminary approval before the official opening of the institution.
Another element in the document deserves attention: World Liberty Trust will neither be able to issue, hold, nor trade WLFI tokens. However, the OCC specifies that World Liberty Financial and the future bank indirectly share some owners.
On paper, a clear boundary is thus drawn between the WLFI token and the banking activities related to USD1.
Previous token freezes fuel questions This separation comes as the control powers exercised over certain assets linked to World Liberty are already at the heart of several conflicts.
In June, World Liberty Financial froze some on-chain addresses associated with HTX as part of a sanctions compliance review. The crypto platform challenged this decision and suspended several pairs involving WLFI and USD1. It also announced the conversion of its users’ USD1 holdings into USDT.
A few months earlier, in September 2025, Justin Sun himself saw a significant portion of his WLFI tokens blocked after movements to exchange platforms. This episode notably led to the current dispute.
The legal battle is not limited to California. World Liberty also sued Justin Sun for defamation and market manipulation in a separate proceeding.
For now, none of these proceedings have concluded on the merits of the accusations.
The next steps should bring more clarity. On one side, Judge Donato’s written order will specify which claims will remain before the court and which might still be subject to arbitration. On the other, World Liberty Trust must meet the OCC’s requirements before obtaining its final authorization.
Two separate cases, but the same underlying question: how far does the control exercised within the World Liberty ecosystem extend, as USD1 is about to enter a federally regulated banking framework reinforced by the American legislation on stablecoins?
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Fenelon L.
Passionné par le Bitcoin, j'aime explorer les méandres de la blockchain et des cryptos et je partage mes découvertes avec la communauté. Mon rêve est de vivre dans un monde où la vie privée et la liberté financière sont garanties pour tous, et je crois fermement que Bitcoin est l'outil qui peut rendre cela possible.
DISCLAIMER
The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in this article belong solely to the author, and should not be taken as investment advice. Do your own research before taking any investment decisions.
Investoři World Liberty Financial včetně Erica Trumpa souhlasili, že nebudou zasahovat do řízení plánované svěřenecké banky při schvalování regulátorem. OCC jí už dal předběžné schválení, finální povolení ale ještě chybí.
World Liberty Financial investors including Eric Trump have agreed to limit their influence over the management of the company’s proposed national trust bank as it moves through the federal approval process.
Trump, World Liberty cofounder Zak Folkman and Emirati businessman Hamad Khalfan Ali Matar Alshamsi signed agreements known as passivity commitments on behalf of their respective companies, according to documents disclosed alongside the bank’s preliminary approval last week.
The agreements commit the investors to avoiding influence over the bank’s management. World Liberty said the arrangements are intended to ensure certain stakeholders do not exercise control over the operations of World Liberty Trust Company.
The commitments have attracted attention because of World Liberty’s connections to President Donald Trump’s family and foreign investors.
Similar arrangements have previously been used by major institutional investors. Vanguard Group has pledged not to influence banks held in its investment portfolios, while China’s sovereign wealth fund entered a passivity agreement when acquiring a stake in Morgan Stanley.
World Liberty said it intends to operate under continued federal oversight.
The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency granted World Liberty Trust Company preliminary approval last week. The charter still requires final approval.
If approved, the trust bank would be able to issue and redeem World Liberty’s USD1 stablecoin, manage its reserves and provide digital asset custody services. It would not operate as a traditional commercial bank.
The proposed charter has faced political scrutiny because of the Trump family’s financial interests in World Liberty.
Senate Democrats including Elizabeth Warren have introduced legislation that would prevent regulators from approving bank charters for companies owned or controlled by a president or members of their immediate family.
World Liberty has said Trump and his family do not serve as officers, directors or employees of the company. The White House has rejected claims that the president’s financial interests create a conflict of interest.
The bank application also includes organizers and directors connected to the Witkoff family, including Zach Witkoff, Scott Alper and Robert Witkoff.
World Liberty’s ownership structure has also drawn scrutiny. Before Trump’s inauguration, the company agreed to sell a 49% stake to a firm backed by Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed, the brother of the United Arab Emirates president, for $500 million, according to the Wall Street Journal.
Securing a charter would allow World Liberty to bring issuance and reserve management for USD1 in-house. The stablecoin has a market capitalization of nearly $4 billion, making it one of the world’s largest dollar-backed stablecoins.
The OCC has taken a more receptive stance toward crypto banking applications under Comptroller Jonathan Gould. Ripple, Paxos, and Fidelity Digital Assets received conditional trust bank approvals in 2025, while Coinbase received similar approval earlier this year.
Disclosure: This article was edited by Editorial Team. For more information on how we create and review content, see our Editorial Policy.
Pákistán spustil první komplexní právní rámec pro virtuální aktiva a po zhruba osmi letech zákazu otevřel licenční režim. Bilal Bin Saqib vyzval zahraniční firmy, aby přišly, získaly licenci a podnikaly v zemi.
Pakistan has announced a new regulatory framework for crypto after banning the asset class for close to a decade,
Announcing the news in an X post Friday, Bilal Bin Saqib, the special assistant to the prime minister on blockchain and cryptocurrency, invited foreign businesses to come to the country and set up shop.
Pakistan’s Virtual Assets Act introduces the country’s first comprehensive legal framework for overseeing virtual assets and the businesses that operate in this space.
8 years of prohibition end today.
Chairman PVARA @BilalBinSaqib announces the notification of the Licensing Regulations and the opening of the licensing portal, and sets out what licensing requires of providers and what it guarantees consumers.
Get licensed. Get compliant. Come… pic.twitter.com/STVPsoX1so
— Pakistan Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (@PakistanVARA) August 21, 2026 “For approximately a decade, Pakistan’s answer to virtual assets was complete permission and complete ban — but history tells us that technology never waits for permission,” Bin Saqib said.
He added: “To the companies watching Pakistan from outside, the front door is open for you. Come, get licensed. Come, get banked. Come, build here under rules that are clear, public and enforceable.”
In a separate post, Bin Saqib said that the country now has “the rules, the regulator and the licensing framework to bring virtual assets into the formal economy, protect consumers and build the foundation for the next generation of financial infrastructure.”
Pakistan’s virtual Assets Act was approved by the senate earlier this year and then signed into law by President Asif Ali Zardari. Friday’s announcement indicates that licensing regulations are now in place.
Pakistan has made a crypto-friendly pivot in recent years. In 2025, plans to launch a national strategic Bitcoin reserve were announced at the Bitcoin 2025.
Before that, the country announced that it was allocating 2,000 MW of surplus electricity to Bitcoin mining and AI data centers in an initiative aimed at generating revenue, creating jobs, and attracting foreign investment, according to the Pakistani government.
The country has played an important part as a mediator between the U.S. and Iran. A relationship started forming between the two after it became an affiliate of Trump-backed crypto project, World Liberty Financial.
Weeks after President Donald Trump’s return to power last year, WLF leaders went to Islamabad to meet with Pakistan’s prime minister.
Mathew Di Salvo
Mathew is a reporter who's covered the space since 2019, reporting on everything from Salvadoran president Nayib Bukele's Bitcoin bet to crypto exchange FTX's bankruptcy.
Binance uvedl, že jeho zaměstnanci byli v SAE po rutinních dotazech kvůli tokům peněz u třetích stran propuštěni. Přesto policie zadržela dva pracovníky a jeden další byl v červenci vyslýchán na stanici.
Binance runs its global exchange under Abu Dhabi’s regulator. Emirati police still detained two of its employees over financial crime inquiries, the New York Times reported.
All have been released. A third staff member, who leads the company’s Dubai arm, answered questions at a police station in July.
A Foothold Built on Licenses and State MoneyThe Emirates is not a side market for Binance. It is the base.
Abu Dhabi’s Financial Services Regulatory Authority granted the exchange three licenses on December 8. No other crypto exchange had won a global license under that framework. The permissions went live on January 5.
The money runs just as deep. State-backed fund MGX invested $2 billion in March 2025. It paid in USD1, a stablecoin from World Liberty Financial, a venture the Trump family part-owns.
The relationship even shapes policy. Binance has cited its Abu Dhabi licensing rules to explain why it now handles some foreign police requests differently.
Airport Stops and an Overnight HoldTwo workers were pulled aside at Emirati airports, people familiar with the inquiries said. One midlevel employee passed through Sharjah this month. Officers took him to a station and held him overnight.
What police are chasing is unclear. Binance told the Emirati government that its staff were swept into fraud cases centered on customers. None were tied to the offenses, the company said.
The link may be mundane. Some employees’ names sit on a corporate bank account Binance keeps in the country. That account processes customer deposits and withdrawals.
“A small number of our personnel were recently asked to provide standard statements to local authorities as part of routine inquiries relating to third-party fund flows… all who provided statements were promptly cleared and released,” A Binance spokesman, speaking to the New York Times.
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A Familiar Pattern for Binance StaffEmirati authorities were already tracing money around the exchange. Dubai’s Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority fined an unlicensed local firm, Shelbit, on July 24. Reuters tracked about $4 billion through Shelbit, and roughly $676 million reached Binance.
Binance’s record invites that attention. The company pleaded guilty in the United States in November 2023 and paid $4.32 billion. Prosecutors found it had let more than $898 million in trades pass between US and Iranian users.
That deal placed an independent compliance monitor over the company for three years. The term still has months left to run.
Staff have been caught in national cases before. Compliance executive Tigran Gambaryan spent months held in Nigerian custody in 2024. US diplomatic pressure secured his release.
The detentions have rattled the workforce. Binance approached Emirati officials this month, seeking help and raising concerns about employee safety.
Whether the questioning stays limited to customer fraud will test how much protection those licenses actually buy.
Soud v Kalifornii zamítl snahu World Liberty Financial přesunout spor s Justinem Sunem do soukromé arbitráže; případ tak zůstane veřejný. Sun tvrdí, že WLFI má skrytý backdoor pro zmrazení nebo spálení tokenů.
TLDR: World Liberty Financial failed to move Justin Sun’s lawsuit into private arbitration proceedings. Sun alleges WLFI’s smart contract has a hidden backdoor to freeze or burn token holdings at will. USD1 stablecoin reportedly shares the same freeze and burn controls Sun alleges exist in WLFI tokens. Sun questions whether World Liberty holds enough capital to cover a judgment worth hundreds of millions. World Liberty Financial faced a setback in California federal court after a judge ruled that Justin Sun’s individual claims against the project will stay in open court.
The ruling rejects World Liberty’s push to move the dispute into private arbitration and seal case documents. Sun, an early investor in the project, called the decision a major win for transparency.
Court Sides With Sun on Open Proceedings The California federal court decision addressed World Liberty’s request to force Sun’s claims into confidential arbitration. Sun’s legal team argued the case belongs in public view, and the judge agreed.
World Liberty also asked the court to send company-related claims to arbitration. The judge did not fully grant that request. Instead, the parties were ordered to determine which claims stay in court.
Sun described the outcome as evidence that token holders deserve visibility into how projects treat their investors.
He said World Liberty would not fight so hard to avoid scrutiny if its conduct were defensible. Sun has positioned the ruling as a step toward accountability in the dispute.
Today, my counsel appeared in California federal court to oppose World Liberty Financial's @worldlibertyfi efforts to force our dispute into secret arbitration proceedings and seal documents from public view.
We argued forcefully that this case belongs in open court—and the…
— H.E. Justin Sun 👨🚀 🌞 (@justinsuntron) August 20, 2026
Sun was among World Liberty Financial’s earliest and largest backers, investing $45 million in WLFI tokens. He has said that investment helped push the project’s token sale past $550 million. His lawsuit against World Liberty seeks hundreds of millions of dollars in damages.
Backdoor Allegations Center on Token Control Sun’s complaint alleges World Liberty built hidden backdoor controls into the WLFI smart contract. Those controls reportedly let the team freeze, restrict, or burn any holder’s tokens without notice. Sun claims World Liberty used this power against his own token holdings.
He also alleges he faced threats of criminal referrals after trying to assert his legal rights. Following the filing, Sun obtained a court order blocking World Liberty from destroying his tokens. He said the order was necessary given the alleged threats and technical capability to act on them.
Sun further claims World Liberty built the same backdoor functions into its USD1 stablecoin. He urged USD1 users to understand that their assets could reportedly be frozen or destroyed. He pointed to the alleged treatment of WLFI holders as a warning sign for stablecoin users.
Sun said he is not the only person who believes they were harmed by World Liberty. He noted others have privately described similar concerns but remain hesitant to file suit. He attributed that hesitation to fear of retaliation, which he said the complaint documents.
Financial Stability and Leadership Questions Raised Sun raised concerns about whether World Liberty has enough capital to cover a judgment. He noted USD1’s reported $4 billion market cap represents user collateral, not company funds. That collateral cannot legally be used to satisfy a court judgment, he said.
Public reports cited in the discussion state World Liberty deposited roughly five billion WLFI tokens as collateral. The deposit reportedly went to Dolomite, a lending platform co-founded by World Liberty’s own chief technology officer. Analysts have compared the circular borrowing structure to leverage patterns seen at FTX.
Sun also referenced World Liberty co-founder Chase Herro’s earlier project, Dough Finance. That platform claimed a hack occurred, but an investor lawsuit alleged Herro personally moved the funds. Public reporting indicates most of those assets remain unaccounted for.
Sun said the combination of factors raises doubts about World Liberty’s ability to meet its obligations. He cited his own damages claim, potential claims from others, and the borrowing structure. Sun encouraged investors to conduct independent research before engaging further with the project.
Aster spustil pět nových RWA perpetualů vypořádávaných v USD1, včetně SPCXUSD1, CLUSD1, XAUUSD1, SNDKUSD1 a SKHYNIXUSD1. Na likviditu je navázán fond zhruba 28 milionů USD.
Five New RWA Perp Markets Go Live on Aster@Aster_DEX has listed five new perpetual markets settled in solana:USD1ttGY1N17NEEHLmELoaybftRBUSErhqYiQzvEmuB, covering SPCXUSD1, CLUSD1, XAUUSD1, SNDKUSD1 and SKHYNIXUSD1. The exchange describes these as the first real-world asset (RWA) perpetual contracts denominated in the stablecoin. Further markets are planned under its AOS-2 listing standard.
Every perpetual contract tracking real-world assets on Aster will settle exclusively in $USD1, @worldlibertyfi's dollar-pegged stablecoin. The move positions $USD1 as the sole margin and settlement layer for Aster's RWA vertical, replacing conventional alternatives such as USDT or USDC for these pairs.
The fee structure for $USD1 commodity pairs is set at 1 basis point for takers and a negative 0.5 basis points for makers, meaning the exchange will pay a rebate to liquidity providers.
A $28 Million Liquidity Fund Backs the LaunchTo seed depth across the new pairs, the two projects have established a dedicated growth fund. @worldlibertyfi is contributing 250M ethereum:0xda5e1988097297dcdc1f90d4dfe7909e847cbef6, while Aster is adding 12.5M $USD1, bringing the combined pool to roughly $28 million at current prices.
Both teams indicated they are exploring deeper integration across their respective token ecosystems, suggesting the partnership could expand beyond settlement.
$USD1 is a fiat-backed stablecoin pegged 1:1 to the U.S. dollar, launched in March 2025, and is fully collateralized with reserves including U.S. dollar deposits, short-term Treasury bills, and cash equivalents held by regulated custodian BitGo Trust and subject to monthly audits. By Q1 2026, USD1 had grown to a circulating supply near $4.5 billion, making it the fastest-growing fiat-backed stablecoin of that period.
For Aster, the launch marks a deliberate push beyond crypto-native derivatives. The move signals a strategic shift toward multi-asset perpetuals beyond pure crypto. With more markets set to follow under AOS-2, the platform is building out what it frames as a new category of on-chain, stablecoin-settled RWA trading.
Sources:
The Defiant: Aster to Settle RWA Perps Exclusively in USD1
World Liberty Financial: Meet USD1 (Official)
BusinessWire: USD1 Crosses $3 Billion in Market Capitalization
World Liberty Financial spojila USD1 s platformou WorldClaw, která nabízí přibližně 90 AI modelů, z nichž 43 pochází od čínských firem. Některé z nich čelí omezením a kontrole amerických úřadů kvůli národní bezpečnosti.
WorldClaw collaboration integrates World Liberty’s USD1 stablecoin with AI model marketplace. Nearly half of WorldClaw’s 90 available AI models originate from Chinese technology companies. Multiple Chinese developers on the platform face Pentagon designations and Commerce Department restrictions. World Liberty, with 38% Trump family ownership, generates revenue from USD1 adoption. Partnership creates tension between commercial AI access and US national security policies. A new partnership between World Liberty Financial and WorldClaw, an artificial intelligence aggregator based in Hong Kong, has thrust the Trump-connected cryptocurrency venture into the center of ongoing debates about Chinese technology access. The collaboration enables customers to pay for Chinese and American AI models using World Liberty’s USD1 stablecoin, creating questions about compliance with evolving security frameworks.
USD1 Stablecoin Integration Powers WorldClaw Services The Hong Kong-based WorldClaw platform aggregates approximately 90 different artificial intelligence models for commercial use. According to Reuters analysis, nearly half—43 models specifically—were created by Chinese technology firms such as Alibaba, Baidu, Z.ai, DeepSeek, and Moonshot. American tech giants also contribute models to the platform’s offerings.
World Liberty generates income when users conduct transactions with USD1, as the stablecoin earns returns on the reserve assets backing its one-dollar peg. These reserves typically consist of US Treasury bonds and similar dollar-denominated financial instruments. The Trump family maintains a significant 38% equity position in World Liberty Financial, directly benefiting from cryptocurrency-related revenues.
While WorldClaw operates independently from the Trump family’s crypto enterprise, connections exist through personnel and promotion. Ryan Fang, World Liberty’s growth executive, provides advisory services to WorldClaw focused on USD1 integration and global expansion. Additionally, Donald Trump Jr. and Eric Trump have actively publicized WorldClaw across their social media platforms.
Pentagon and Commerce Department Restrictions Target Model Providers Multiple Chinese technology companies accessible through WorldClaw’s platform currently face official United States government restrictions or enhanced scrutiny. The Department of Defense has formally identified both Alibaba and Baidu as entities with connections to China’s military apparatus. Separately, the Commerce Department added Z.ai to its entity list, citing national security risks.
Federal authorities have additionally accused DeepSeek and Moonshot of unauthorized appropriation of proprietary technology from American artificial intelligence developers. Chinese corporate representatives and government officials have disputed these allegations regarding military ties and technology transfer practices. Nevertheless, the formal restrictions against certain companies remain active.
WorldClaw’s provision of these Chinese AI models appears legally permissible under current regulations, even for American customers. Yet the association with World Liberty Financial creates an apparent contradiction with broader Washington policy objectives targeting sensitive Chinese technology sectors. The current administration has emphasized strategic competition with China specifically in artificial intelligence, semiconductor manufacturing, and emerging technologies.
Cryptocurrency Payment Integration Expands AI Model Distribution WorldClaw’s infrastructure includes WorldRouter, a unified interface enabling customers to access diverse artificial intelligence models through a single service portal. Company statements indicate the platform serves over 10,000 active users while processing millions of computational requests. Future development plans include AI agent functionality capable of autonomous task completion, from email management to restaurant ordering.
Customers selecting USD1 as their payment method create a direct commercial link between the AI marketplace and World Liberty’s stablecoin ecosystem. This integration potentially amplifies USD1 transaction volume while diversifying the stablecoin’s application beyond conventional cryptocurrency exchange activities. Reuters reporting did not identify specific revenue-sharing arrangements or financial terms governing the World Liberty-WorldClaw partnership.
The collaboration consequently positions World Liberty Financial at the intersection of cryptocurrency commerce, international AI model distribution, and ongoing policy disputes regarding Chinese technology access. While no existing statutes prohibit this business arrangement, and WorldClaw characterizes its model aggregation as standard technology practice, the partnership inevitably situates World Liberty within contentious discussions balancing commercial innovation, national security imperatives, and geopolitical technology competition.
Oliver Dale
Editor-in-Chief of Blockonomi and founder of Kooc Media, A UK-Based Online Media Company. Believer in Open-Source Software, Blockchain Technology & a Free and Fair Internet for all. His writing has been quoted by Nasdaq, Dow Jones, Investopedia, The New Yorker, Forbes, Techcrunch & More. Contact [email protected]
OCC udělil společnosti World Liberty Trust Company předběžné podmíněné schválení národní trustové licence, které jí umožní přímo vydávat a vykupovat stablecoin USD1. Dosavadní emise přes BitGo tak přejde pod vlastní správu.
The limited-purpose bank charter lets World Liberty Trust Company issue and redeem USD1 in-house, displacing BitGo — and immediately triggers Warren's 'Ending Presidential Corruption in Banking Act.'
The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency has granted preliminary conditional approval for a national trust bank charter to World Liberty Trust Company, N.A., an affiliate of the Trump family-backed World Liberty Financial. The approval, issued August 14 under OCC Corporate Decision #1385, follows an application filed January 7 and authorizes the entity to directly issue and redeem the USD1 stablecoin.
The charter is surgically narrow. World Liberty Trust Company can manage and hold customer assets, settle payments, and custody the reserves backing USD1 — but it cannot take deposits, make loans, or operate as a federally insured depository. It is not a bank under the Bank Holding Company Act, and it is not seeking a Federal Reserve master account. What it gets is the federal imprimatur of OCC supervision without the capital and liquidity requirements of a full commercial bank. The USD1 stablecoin, previously issued through BitGo Bank & Trust, will move under the new entity’s proprietary umbrella.
CoinDesk and Reuters reported the approval. The OCC imposed conditions including a $20 million minimum capital requirement, a qualified internal audit manager, and satisfaction of all preopening requirements before the bank can open. The OCC retains the right to modify, suspend, or rescind the conditional approval.
The ownership structure is what makes this charter a political event. World Liberty Financial is approximately 38% owned by an entity tied to Donald Trump Jr. and other Trump family members. The trust company’s president is Zach Witkoff, son of Steve Witkoff, who serves as a presidential special envoy. Senator Elizabeth Warren, ranking member of the Senate Banking Committee, called the approval “the most brazen act of self-dealing our financial system has ever seen,” adding that “President Trump is now the first President in history to approve, operate, and supervise his own bank.”
On August 15, Warren introduced the “Ending Presidential Corruption in Banking Act” with nine co-sponsors, including Senators Van Hollen, Alsobrooks, Murphy, Sanders, Blumenthal, Reed, Kim, Duckworth, and Gallego. The bill would prohibit the Fed, OCC, and FDIC from approving banking applications involving a president, vice president, members of Congress, or their immediate families.
World Liberty’s response frames the charter as a hedge against future political risk rather than a product of current political access. Spokesman David Wachsman told Newsweek the firm is “running towards regulation and continuous oversight.” The company maintains the charter ensures “robust and permanent OCC regulatory supervision that will outlast the Trump administration” — an argument that uses the permanence of federal oversight as a shield against the perception of political favoritism.
The structural question is whether a limited-purpose trust charter can serve as a stablecoin regulatory template. The model concentrates on custody, reserve management, and redemption mechanics while explicitly excluding the systemic risks of deposit-taking. For stablecoin issuers navigating the GENIUS Act’s emerging framework, a trust charter offers a path to federal legitimacy without the overhead of full banking regulation. Circle has pursued a different route — a national trust bank subsidiary through the OCC’s standard process — but the outcome here suggests the trust charter model may be more accessible than previously assumed.
The catch is that this particular trust charter is inseparable from its political context. Whether the “regulatory moat” it creates for USD1 is a genuine institutionalization of stablecoin infrastructure or a one-time artifact of political proximity depends on whether the model survives the legislative response now gathering around it.
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Americký regulátor podmíněně schválil národní trustový charter pro World Liberty Financial spojenou s Trumpovou rodinou. Firma by tak mohla přímo vydávat stablecoin USD1 a spravovat dolarová aktiva, která jej kryjí, pod dohledem OCC.
Aug 14 : A national U.S. bank regulator on Friday conditionally approved a bank charter application linked to President Donald Trump and his family’s crypto venture, World Liberty Financial, effectively greenlighting an expansion of its stablecoin operations.
The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency said in a letter published on its website that it has granted conditional preliminary approval of World Liberty Trust Company’s application for a national trust charter, which it applied for in January.
The charter, if ultimately approved at a later date, would allow World Liberty, through the newly created trust bank, to manage and hold assets on behalf of customers and settle payments faster. It does not generally permit deposit-taking or lending like traditional banks.
Hoping to capitalize on the Trump administration’s crypto-friendly stance, the industry has been knocking on the OCC’s door for such charters. They allow crypto companies to hold assets on behalf of clients nationwide under a single federal charter, as well as to provide other settlement and asset servicing functions — making it easier to court major institutional clients.
Other crypto firms, including Ripple and Circle, have received preliminary approval for such charters under Comptroller Jonathan Gould, whom Trump appointed to the role last year.
In the case of World Liberty, the charter would allow it to directly issue its USD1 stablecoin, as well as custody the U.S. dollar assets backing it, both of which are now handled by a business partner, BitGo.
In a statement on Friday, the firm welcomed the conditional approval, calling it a "milestone" in its efforts to open the bank.
"A national trust bank brings USD1 issuance, custody, and reserve management together under OCC supervision, examined on the same standards that have governed banks for generations. We welcome continuous scrutiny from Federal regulators for many years to come," Zach Witkoff, World Liberty Trust president and chairman, said in a statement.
As in most cases, the charter is subject to conditions, including notifying the regulator of any major business plan changes, maintaining at least $20 million in capital and hiring a qualified employee to serve as the firm's internal audit manager.
In its approval letter, the OCC noted it had received comments raising concerns about non-U.S. investors in World Liberty Financial.
The regulator said such investors were not considered principal shareholders in the bank, adding that the OCC had received so-called "passivity agreements" from several bank investors, including those outside the U.S., who vowed that they would not seek to control or influence the bank's operations or decisions.
Among the signatories on those agreements was Eric Trump, the president's son, as president of a Trump-family affiliated investment vehicle.
In February, two Democratic members of the U.S. Senate Banking Committee asked Trump's Treasury secretary to examine the potential national security implications of a reported purchase of a $500 million stake in World Liberty Financial in a deal linked with the United Arab Emirates' national security adviser.
FIRM HAS TIES TO TRUMP ALLIES
World Liberty Trust’s leadership is deeply intertwined with Trump's longtime allies, the Witkoff family.
Zach Witkoff is the son of Trump’s special diplomatic envoy, Steve Witkoff. The Witkoffs were among the co-founders of World Liberty Financial with Trump and his three sons in late 2024, with Zach Witkoff currently serving as its CEO.
Steve Witkoff’s brother Robert Witkoff, a former insurance company executive, will be a director of World Liberty Trust. Another proposed director, Scott Alper, is the president of the Witkoff family’s real estate business.
The OCC is part of the Treasury Department and unlike many other financial regulators does not have a bipartisan board.
Democrats have said a World Liberty charter would pose a major conflict of interest, and pressured Gould during a February congressional hearing to confidentially share the company's unredacted application. The public version did not include full details on its capital structure or business plans.
In its approval letter, the OCC said Gould and staff "acted consistently with their statutory duties and ethical obligations with respect to the application," adding the application was reviewed by career staff and the bank would similarly be supervised by nonpolitical examiners.
LUCRATIVE BUSINESS
World Liberty is the most prominent among the Trump family’s stable of lucrative crypto ventures. Its stated vision is to democratize finance, allowing anyone to bypass a traditional banking system that the Trumps have characterized as restrictive and unfair.
World Liberty has promoted the USD1 stablecoin as a flagship product that is designed to be a safe, U.S. dollar-backed asset allowing for entry to a range of financial products on the blockchain.
USD1 has grown quickly since being announced in March 2025. It is currently the fourth largest stablecoin by market capitalization, at around $4 billion.
Reuters estimated that the Trump family earned about $50 million from the USD1 stablecoin to the end of June 2026.
Overall, World Liberty Financial funneled more than $1.6 billion to the U.S. president and his family as of April, according to Reuters calculations.
World Liberty Financial odložila plánovaný prodej tokenu navázaného na maledivský resort kvůli válce s Íránem, která narušila cestovní ruch v regionu. Token měl jít do prodeje příští rok a investorům dát podíl na výnosech z úvěrů financujících resort.
World Liberty Financial, the cryptocurrency project backed by the Trump family, delayed plans to sell a token related to a resort in the Maldives.The token’s sale has been pushed back due to the Iran war disrupting travel in the region.The venture is part World Liberty Financial’s plans in tokenization, the representation of RWAs on blockchains in token form. WLFI is exploring this concept not just in real estate, but in commodities like oil and gas.World Liberty Financial, the cryptocurrency project backed by the Trump family, delayed plans to sell a token related to a resort in the Maldives, Bloomberg reported on Friday.
The token was planned to go on sale next year, giving investors a share of revenue from loans financing the Trump-branded resort, but this has been pushed back due to the Iran war disrupting travel in the region, according to the report, citing people familiar with the matter.
World Liberty Financial tapped real-world asset (RWAs) platform Securitize in February to help represent loan interests tied to the resort’s development as a digital token that could be traded onchain.
It is unclear when the token will now be listed.
The venture is part World Liberty Financial’s plans in tokenization, the representation of RWAs on blockchains in token form. WLFI is exploring this concept not just in real estate, but in commodities like oil and gas.
A World Liberty Financial spokesperson declined to comment, according to Bloomberg’s report. The company did not immediately respond when contacted by CoinDesk for additional comment.
The protocol’s native token WLFI rose by 2.7% on the news before giving back all of the gains and returning to parity. It is now down by 88.5% from its record high in September, 2025.
World Liberty Financial získala 100 milionů dolarů za své governance tokeny WLFI od investice napojené na čínského podnikatele Guren „Bobby“ Zhoua, který je ve Spojeném království vyšetřován kvůli praní peněz.
A $100 million investment in World Liberty Financial’s governance tokens, the largest single publicly disclosed purchase of WLFI tokens, traces back to a Chinese businessman currently under investigation by UK law enforcement for money laundering.
The investment, made on June 26 through the UAE-based Aqua1 Foundation, directed as much as $75 million toward entities controlled by the Trump family and affiliates of co-founder Zach Witkoff. The man behind the foundation, Guren “Bobby” Zhou, was arrested in the UK in March 2021 on suspicion of money laundering. British officials have confirmed the investigation remains active as of late July.
Following the money World Liberty Financial launched in 2024 as a decentralized finance protocol with deep ties to the Trump family. Eric Trump serves among its co-founders alongside Witkoff, the son of Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff. The project has raised hundreds of millions through its WLFI governance token sales, attracting capital from domestic and international sources alike.
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The Aqua1 Foundation deal stands out not just for its size but for the circumstances surrounding its architect. Zhou has faced legal trouble on two continents. Beyond the UK money laundering investigation, Chinese courts have issued civil judgments against him totaling roughly 19.4 million yuan, approximately $2.4 million, for unpaid loans.
Eric Trump met with Zhou in Dubai to discuss the investment, according to reporting by The New York Times. Zhou later described the arrangement as involvement in “Trump’s family’s crypto venture.”
The due diligence question Standard anti-money laundering protocols, the kind that traditional financial institutions follow as a matter of routine, typically flag individuals with active investigations. Know-your-customer requirements exist precisely to prevent potentially illicit funds from flowing into financial products. With up to $75 million reportedly flowing to Trump-linked entities and Witkoff affiliates, the question of where that money originated becomes more than an academic exercise.
WLFI tokens function as governance tokens for the World Liberty Financial protocol, giving holders voting rights over protocol decisions. They do not represent equity or ownership in the traditional sense.
Regulatory crosshairs The stablecoin legislation debate in Congress has repeatedly circled back to the question of whether Trump-linked crypto projects should face enhanced disclosure requirements. A $100 million investment from an entity connected to a foreign national under money laundering investigation is the kind of case study that regulators point to when arguing for stricter oversight.
Disclosure: This article was edited by Editorial Team. For more information on how we create and review content, see our Editorial Policy.
Navrhované etické pravidlo by Donaldu Trumpovi při nuceném prodeji kryptofirem mohlo umožnit odložit federální daň z kapitálových zisků na roky, a možná i na neurčito.
The divestiture requirement Democrats demanded as the price of their Clarity Act votes could hand Trump a years-long deferral on capital gains, Bloomberg reported.
Original Image Credits: noamgalai / Shutterstock.com
Posted August 7, 2026 at 6:36 am EST.
The bipartisan ethics proposal senators have offered President Donald Trump to unlock the Clarity Act could produce a substantial tax benefit for him, Bloomberg reported Thursday. The provision would require the president to divest from crypto-related businesses, and that forced sale is expected to let him defer federal taxes on the resulting gains for years, and possibly indefinitely, people familiar with the matter told Bloomberg.
The proposed ethics addendum has not been made public and remains under negotiation between the White House and lawmakers.
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Trump reported more than $1.4 billion in crypto income for last year in a financial disclosure released in June, including roughly $636 million in memecoin royalties, about $594 million tied to World Liberty Financial, and close to $197 million from a stablecoin venture. Those figures make crypto the dominant source of his personal income.
The ethics fight has been the central obstacle to the bill for months. Trump had accepted language brokered by Senator Cynthia Lummis, but Democrats and Republicans including Senators Thom Tillis and Ruben Gallego, who sent the counter-proposal to the White House in late July. Senate Democrats have separately demanded hearings into the president’s crypto earnings. These disputes have fueled delays that have now pushed a Clarity vote to September.
Related Listen: Kristin Smith on Why the Clarity Act Comes Down to a Memecoin
AI-assisted content: This article was produced with the assistance of AI tools and was reviewed, edited, and fact-checked by a member of the Unchained editorial team before publication.
Binance prodloužila airdrop WLFI pro držitele USD1 až do 4. září 2026 a vyčlenila odměnový fond 170 milionů WLFI. U futures účtů s USD1 jako kolaterálem platí 1,2x multiplikátor odměn.
Binance Extends WLFI Airdrop for USD1 Holders Through September 2026@Binance has extended its ongoing multi-phase airdrop campaign with @worldlibertyfi, putting a 170 million $WLFI token prize pool in front of $USD1 holders. The latest round runs with weekly distributions through September 4, 2026, continuing a partnership that has now spanned several months and multiple reward cycles.
To qualify, users must hold a net $USD1 balance across eligible Binance account types, including Spot, Margin, and Futures accounts. Rewards are calculated using snapshots of net balances rather than gross holdings, meaning borrowed positions are factored out of the equation.
Futures Collateral Users Get a Bonus MultiplierParticipants who use $USD1 as collateral in Futures accounts receive a 1.2x reward multiplier, provided they maintain a daily open interest threshold of $1,300 in $USD1. The boost is consistent with terms seen in earlier campaign phases, where Margin and Futures users have routinely received the same 1.2x incentive for putting $USD1 to work as collateral rather than simply parking it in a Spot account.
The campaign is the latest chapter in what has become a sustained effort by Binance to deepen adoption of the $USD1 stablecoin. Earlier phases distributed pools ranging from $40 million to 235 million $WLFI tokens, with each round structured as a series of weekly payouts. @worldlibertyfi transferred 170 million $WLFI tokens to Binance ahead of one of the recent extensions, a move that analysts noted fueled speculation around continued campaign activity.
$USD1 is the dollar-pegged stablecoin issued by World Liberty Financial, a decentralized finance project with reported ties to the Trump family. $WLFI serves as the project's governance token. The repeated airdrop campaigns on Binance reflect a broader industry pattern in which exchanges use token incentives to drive stablecoin liquidity and retain user balances on-platform.
Sources:
AMBCrypto: Why is WLFI's price up today? USD1 buzz, Binance transfer and more
Stablecoin Insider: Binance Launches 135 Million Airdrop for World Liberty Financial USD1 Stablecoin Holders
CryptoRank: Binance Launches $40M WLFI Airdrop Campaign for USD1 Holders
Elizabeth Warrenová žádá ministra obchodu Howarda Lutnicka, aby vysvětlil, proč SAE dostaly bezlicenční přístup k pokročilým čipům pro AI po hlášené investici zálivských peněz do Trumpova kryptoprojektu World Liberty Financial. Upozorňuje i na možné bezpečnostní riziko pro americké technologie.
Warren wants Lutnick to account for why the UAE got license-free access to advanced AI chips months after Gulf money reportedly flowed into the Trump family’s crypto venture.
Original Image Credits: L Allen / Shutterstock.com
Posted August 6, 2026 at 5:36 am EST.
Senator Elizabeth Warren pressed Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick on Wednesday to explain why his department rolled back export controls and gave the United Arab Emirates license-free access to sensitive American technology, including advanced AI chips. In her letter, the Massachusetts Democrat questioned whether the decision was tied to a reported half-billion-dollar UAE investment in World Liberty Financial, the crypto venture co-founded by President Donald Trump and his sons.
Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security added the UAE to Country Group A:5 last month, a designation that lets exporters ship certain controlled items without a license and that has historically been reserved for partners such as the United Kingdom and Australia. Warren wrote that the UAE is the only country in that tier belonging to none of the multilateral export control regimes, including the Nuclear Suppliers Group, the Missile Technology Control Regime, the Australia Group, and the Wassenaar Arrangement, and that it has never sought to join one.
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UAE entities linked to Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the country’s top national security official, reportedly invested in World Liberty Financial and took board seats in 2025. Tahnoon subsequently sought approvals to import advanced AI chips in meetings with U.S. officials, and G42, the AI company he chairs, now has license-free access.
Warren also cited reporting that career Commerce staff recommended against rolling back export restrictions on the UAE and were overruled, and that U.S. intelligence intercepted communications indicating China intended to use its relationship with G42 to obtain American technology and AI algorithms. She pointed to the UAE’s record as a transshipment hub for controlled technology bound for China and Iran, and said experts have called the rollback unjustifiable on either security or economic grounds. Her seven questions ask what risk analysis Commerce performed, whether Energy, Defense, and State were consulted, whether any agency objected, and whether BIS plans to add more non-member countries to A:5.
Five Senate Democrats, Warren among them, demanded hearings in June over the same reported UAE stake in World Liberty Financial, which the Wall Street Journal described as a 49% interest. The group renewed the demand last month after disclosures showed $1.4 billion in crypto earnings tied to Trump, including roughly $594 million from World Liberty and nearly $197 million from a stablecoin venture connected to Tahnoon.
Related Listen: How China May Be Interfering in Local US Politics to Block AI Data Center Progress
AI-assisted content: This article was produced with the assistance of AI tools and was reviewed, edited, and fact-checked by a member of the Unchained editorial team before publication.
WLFI má stále uzamčeno téměř 70 % nabídky, v oběhu je jen asi 32 % z celkových 100 miliard tokenů. Tržní kapitalizace je kolem 1,73 mld. USD, zatímco FDV činí 5,44 mld. USD.
@worldlibertyfi's $WLFI token is trading with a significant portion of its supply still off the market. With a market cap of approximately $1.73B and a fully diluted valuation (FDV) of $5.44B, the token's circulating supply sits at around 32%, meaning nearly 70% of all $WLFI tokens remain locked.
What the numbers mean The gap between market cap and FDV is a key figure for investors to watch. The current market cap reflects less than a third of the token's eventual full size, meaning that as more supply enters the market over time, dilution remains a real risk. According to CoinGecko, the total supply of $WLFI is 100 billion tokens, with around 32 billion currently tradable.
The token's vesting structure is managed through a smart contract system known as the "Lockbox," which holds tokens in escrow and releases them according to a defined schedule. A major governance proposal passed earlier this year with 99.9% approval, restructuring the unlock timeline: early presale supporters face a two-year cliff followed by a two-year linear vest, while founders, team members, and partners agreed to burn roughly 10% of their holdings (approximately 4.5 billion tokens) with the remainder vesting over five years. The full unlock schedule is expected to extend into 2031.
Adding to the supply overhang concern, the price of $WLFI is down 6.2% over the past 30 days. That comes even as the broader project continues to develop, with its USD1 stablecoin expanding its integrations and the protocol maintaining a top-50 ranking by market cap across major data providers.
Dilution risk remains the key watchpoint For holders, the core question is how markets will absorb the remaining locked supply as it is gradually released. Structured vesting is designed to reduce sudden price shocks, with $WLFI using linear vesting for team and advisor allocations, meaning tokens are released in equal amounts over time rather than in large cliff events.
Still, the scale of the remaining locked tokens means any sustained sell pressure from unlocking insiders could weigh on price. At current levels, the FDV of $WLFI implies the market would need to absorb more than three times the current circulating value if all 100 billion tokens were ever in free float simultaneously.
Sources:
World Liberty Financial (WLFI) Market Data, CoinGecko
WLFI Upcoming and Historical Token Unlock Events, Tokenomist
62 Billion WLFI Token Unlock Schedule Goes Live, Memeburn
When the Trump family was assembling its crypto venture in 2024, it went looking for credibility. What it found, at least in one notable case, was a polite no.
Nic Carter, a longtime crypto venture capitalist and one of the more respected analytical voices in the space, was approached by Steve Witkoff, a co-founder of World Liberty Financial, about taking on an advisory role. The conversation did not go well.
Carter’s account, shared in a New York magazine feature on World Liberty Financial, is blunt. Witkoff, he said, appeared unfamiliar with foundational crypto and DeFi concepts. “He didn’t know what crypto or DeFi was. He didn’t know what the pitch was,” Carter told the magazine. “I’m like, ‘Oh, okay, so there’s no product. They’re just doing a token.'”
What World Liberty Financial actually is WLFI launched publicly in September 2024, positioning itself as a decentralized finance platform. Private token sales began in October 2024, with initial prices set as low as $0.015 per token.
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The governance token, ticker $WLFI, eventually began public trading on September 1, 2025, following a period of private sales at $0.05 per token in later rounds. The Trump family and affiliated entities are structured to receive 75% of net proceeds from those token sales.
At peak paper valuations, the Trump family’s token holdings were estimated to be worth around $5 billion.
WLFI has also moved to build out an ecosystem. The project announced a USD1 stablecoin, which at times reportedly saw circulation exceeding $3 billion, and outlined plans for a stablecoin-linked debit card scheduled for release in early 2026.
The credibility gap that Carter identified early Carter has publicly supported Trump, which makes his reservations about WLFI harder to dismiss as partisan noise.
When 75% of net token sale proceeds flow back to the founding family, the incentive to sell the token aggressively is significant, regardless of whether the underlying product ever matures.
What this means for investors watching WLFI The timing of Carter’s story becoming more widely circulated matters. $WLFI is now publicly traded, meaning retail investors who were not part of the private sale rounds at $0.015 are now entering at market prices set by secondary trading.
The USD1 stablecoin expansion is the more interesting longer-term play, if the numbers hold. A stablecoin with over $3 billion in reported circulation is not trivial; that would place it among the larger stablecoin issuers in a market currently dominated by Tether and Circle’s USDC.
Carter’s decision to pass is a useful reference point, not a verdict. He declined based on a single meeting in 2024, before the stablecoin and debit card roadmap took shape.
Disclosure: This article was edited by Editorial Team. For more information on how we create and review content, see our Editorial Policy.
Trumpovo přiznání výnosů přes 1 miliardu USD z digitálních aktiv komplikuje jednání o Clarity Act. Demokraté chtějí doplnit zákaz, aby úřadující prezident a jeho rodina na kryptu nevydělávali.
Being president is a decent gig. Being president while your family runs a billion-dollar crypto operation is, apparently, an even better one.
President Donald Trump’s 2025 financial disclosure revealed income exceeding $1 billion from digital asset ventures during his first year back in the White House. Estimates peg the total somewhere between $1.2 billion and $1.43 billion, with the bulk flowing from two sources: the family’s World Liberty Financial project and the infamous $TRUMP meme coin.
The disclosure has thrown a wrench into already fragile bipartisan negotiations over the Clarity Act, the sweeping market structure bill that was supposed to give the crypto industry its regulatory framework. Democrats now want the bill rewritten with provisions specifically designed to prevent sitting presidents and their families from cashing in on digital assets. The legislation, as of late July 2026, is going nowhere.
Follow the money The numbers paint a pretty vivid picture. Roughly $500 million to $594 million of Trump’s crypto income came from World Liberty Financial, the DeFi project his family launched in 2024. WLFI controls 75% of its token sale proceeds, and those proceeds have been flowing generously to Trump-linked entities.
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Another $635 million or so came from the $TRUMP meme coin. Here’s the thing about that number, though: it represents profits that were realized while retail investors were getting obliterated. The $TRUMP token has crashed more than 97% from its peak.
WLFI tokens haven’t fared much better, dropping roughly 80% in value.
The legislative standoff Senator Elizabeth Warren has been leading the Democratic charge, arguing that the current draft of the Clarity Act contains loopholes wide enough to drive a presidential motorcade through. Her core argument is straightforward: a president who profits from crypto has a direct financial incentive to shape crypto regulation in his favor, and the legislation needs to explicitly block that.
Recent Senate drafts have floated a proposal to temporarily ban federal officials from issuing digital assets until 2029. That provision alone has become a dealbreaker for Republicans who view it as overreach, and for some Democrats who think it doesn’t go far enough.
The crypto industry spent years begging Washington for regulatory clarity. Congress finally started delivering, passing the GENIUS Act for stablecoins in 2025. But the broader market structure bill, the one that would actually define how tokens are classified and traded, is now hostage to a political fight that has almost nothing to do with the technology itself.
What this means for investors For the crypto market broadly, the stalled Clarity Act is a significant problem. Without a market structure framework, the industry remains in a regulatory gray zone where enforcement actions substitute for clear rules.
The $TRUMP meme coin’s 97%-plus collapse is a case study in what happens when speculative assets tied to political narratives lose momentum. WLFI’s 80% decline tells a similar story. Even with a direct connection to the most powerful person in the country, the token couldn’t sustain its valuation.
The broader risk is that the Democratic push for stricter ethics provisions, if successful, could create a chilling effect beyond just the president’s portfolio. If legislation ends up restricting how any federal official interacts with digital assets, it could discourage the kind of government engagement the industry has been courting. On the other hand, if the Clarity Act dies entirely because neither side can agree on ethics language, the industry loses the regulatory framework it needs to mature.
Disclosure: This article was edited by Editorial Team. For more information on how we create and review content, see our Editorial Policy.
Senátní demokraté požádali o slyšení kvůli Trumpovým kryptoměnovým příjmům přes 1,4 miliardy USD a možnému zapojení SAE. Zpochybňují také 49% podíl ve World Liberty Financial.
Five Democratic senators have formally requested congressional hearings to investigate US President Donald Trump’s extensive cryptocurrency revenues and potentially undisclosed foreign involvement. The senators cited concerns regarding the influence of international investors on American policy and the possibility of national security risks.
Financial disclosures reveal massive crypto earningsThe investigation request follows Trump’s 2025 financial disclosure, which reported a total income of more than $2.24 billion for the year. This included over $1.4 billion related to cryptocurrency activities. His earnings came from dealings with the memecoin sector and World Liberty Financial, a blockchain-focused financial platform.
Detailed figures in the filing attributed roughly $515 million to World Liberty Financial token sales, $65 million to an ownership stake in its parent entity, and $635 million from royalties tied to Trump-branded memecoin initiatives.
Senators Elizabeth Warren (Massachusetts), Richard Blumenthal (Connecticut), Gary Peters (Michigan), Dick Durbin (Illinois), and Ron Wyden (Oregon) initiated the call for hearings. These five serve as senior members of various Senate committees but lack the authority to organize official hearings without Republican cooperation.
Scrutiny over UAE investment in World Liberty FinancialThe senators drew attention to a United Arab Emirates–linked company’s alleged acquisition of a 49% stake in World Liberty Financial. The transaction reportedly involved an entity connected to Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who is the UAE’s national security adviser and an influential figure in the Gulf region.
In their correspondence, the senators demanded full transparency regarding the “Third Parties” named in Trump’s financial disclosures. They also questioned whether foreign interests—including the UAE government—have possibly influenced the shaping of US digital asset regulations.
Earlier this year, Representative Ro Khanna initiated a House inquiry into the UAE’s role, probing whether its investment related to policy changes covering US export restrictions on artificial intelligence chips. World Liberty Financial described that inquiry as politically motivated.
Trump addressed questions about these transactions in a CNBC interview, where he stated that his earnings complied fully with all laws. He said his son Eric is responsible for overseeing business operations, while outside companies manage his portfolio.
The White House maintained that Trump’s assets are contained within a trust managed by his children, a structure designed to prevent conflicts of interest.
Mini dictionary: World Liberty Financial, a blockchain-focused platform known for issuing financial instruments and crypto tokens, operates internationally and has attracted significant investments from global entities.
The senators pointed to foreign ownership stakes and demanded that Trump reveal whether any UAE government or third-party interests have shaped US cryptocurrency policies or legislation.
Upcoming crypto legislation and political falloutThe Democratic lawmakers also highlighted the timing of the anticipated Senate vote on the Digital Asset Market Clarity Act. The act, aimed at clarifying the regulatory framework for cryptocurrencies, is set to move to the Senate floor in the coming weeks.
Senate rules require 60 votes to advance most legislation, making Democratic support essential for Republicans to overcome a filibuster and pass the bill. While some Republicans like Senator Cynthia Lummis support prompt approval, others such as House Financial Services Committee chair French Hill acknowledged that Trump’s deep involvement in cryptocurrency businesses has complicated the legislative process.
In a separate development, a law blocking the Federal Reserve from introducing a central bank digital currency until the end of 2030 has advanced. Trump did not veto the legislation or hold the planned signing event, allowing the measure to automatically become law after a ten-day period.
IssueCurrent StatusImpacted PartiesTrump’s crypto earnings$1.4 billion for 2025Trump, World Liberty FinancialUAE investment49% stake in World Liberty FinancialUAE-linked entity, Trump portfolioCBDC BanEnacted, in effect until Dec 31, 2030Federal Reserve, US consumersClarity ActAwaiting Senate voteLawmakers, crypto industryRepublicans continue to control both chambers of Congress and, so far, have not answered requests from Democratic senators to hold investigative hearings into these matters.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article does not constitute investment advice. Investors should be aware that cryptocurrencies carry high volatility and therefore risk, and should conduct their own research.
Platební divize AI Financial jedná o prodeji svého hlavního byznysu tokijské blockchainové firmě Perpetuals.com až za 15 milionů USD. Jednotka loni vytvořila zhruba 25 milionů USD tržby.
@worldlibertyfi's payments arm, AI Financial, is in talks to offload its core business to Tokyo-based blockchain firm Perpetuals.com for up to $15 million, according to the Wall Street Journal. The development marks a sharp reversal for a company that was once promoted as the foundation of an international payments network powered by World Liberty Financial's USD1 stablecoin.
From $750 Million to $15 Million The problems began after World Liberty acquired a controlling stake in AI Financial in August 2025 by paying with its own $WLFI cryptocurrency. AI Financial then raised an additional $750 million from outside investors to purchase more WLFI tokens, leaving the company heavily exposed to the Trump-backed digital asset.
Under the reported deal terms, Perpetuals.com would pay $5 million upfront in stock, with an additional $10 million contingent on future revenue targets, while also assuming certain liabilities tied to the payments unit. Perpetuals.com confirmed the discussions in a press release on July 7, saying it had signed a non-binding term sheet to explore the acquisition of Alt5 Sigma Canada Inc., with its Chief Strategy Officer noting the company is currently conducting due diligence and that no final decision has been made.
The unit generated roughly $25 million in revenue last year and is AI Financial's sole revenue-generating business. According to the Journal, no USD1 stablecoin transactions have ever been processed through AI Financial's payments platform.
Investors Burned, Trumps Profit $WLFI has slid roughly 70% since the deal was announced, and AI Financial's stock has cratered more than 90% from highs near $9.76, with shares now trading around $0.53. AI Financial posted a $271.5 million net loss for Q1 2026, driven by a $348.3 million unrealised loss on its WLFI holdings, and management has flagged substantial doubt about the company's ability to continue as a going concern within 12 months.
The Trump family is entitled to 75% of the proceeds from World Liberty's crypto token sales, putting their direct gains from the August transaction at roughly $500 million after fees and other expenses. Trump's crypto-related income for 2025 included about $515 million from the sale of tokens released by World Liberty Financial, and $65 million from sales of equity in the holding company.
As part of the broader arrangement, Perpetuals.com has also agreed to explore offering World Liberty Financial's USD1 stablecoin in Europe and to license its trading technology to AI Financial. Both World Liberty Financial and AI Financial declined to comment on the reported sale talks.
Sources:
International Business Times: Trump Family Pockets Half A Billion As Trump-Backed Crypto Firm Moves To Sell Only Revenue-Generating Business
CNBC: Trump family got about $500M from crypto venture as investors saw steep losses
The Crypto Times: Trump-Linked WLFI Treasury Firm to Sell Core Unit for $15M After Token Crash
USD1 od World Liberty Financial se za zhruba patnáct měsíců stal čtvrtým největším stablecoinem na světě, s obíhající nabídkou kolem 4,5 miliardy USD1. Růst táhly hlavně velké institucionální obchody, včetně vypořádání za 2 miliardy USD1 mezi MGX a Binance.
World Liberty Financial’s USD1 has gone from a March 2025 launch announcement to the fourth-largest stablecoin in the world in roughly fifteen months, overtaking PayPal’s PYUSD and Sky’s DAI along the way. Its rise has been driven less by retail adoption than by a handful of enormous institutional deals — most notably a $2 billion settlement between Abu Dhabi-based MGX and Binance that was paid entirely in USD1 — and by the fact that the project sits inside a company co-founded by the Trump family. Here’s what USD1 actually is, how it works, and what to weigh before using it.
Key Takeaways USD1 is a US dollar-pegged stablecoin issued by World Liberty Financial (WLFI) and custodied by BitGo Trust Company under a South Dakota trust charter Reserves consist of cash, short-term US Treasury bills, and government money market funds, verified through monthly AICPA-standard attestations and a live Chainlink-powered proof-of-reserves dashboard Circulating supply has grown from about $3.3 billion at year-end 2025 to roughly $4.5 billion by mid-2026, making USD1 the fourth-largest stablecoin behind USDT, USDC, and Sky’s USDS, according to DefiLlama’s stablecoin tracker USD1 runs natively on around ten blockchains, including Ethereum, BNB Chain, Tron, Solana, Aptos, and the Stripe-backed Tempo L1 World Liberty Financial is majority-owned by a Trump family business entity, which is entitled to a share of token sale proceeds and stablecoin profits — a fact worth knowing before treating USD1 as a neutral financial product USD1 Price Today MetricValuePrice~$0.9987Market Cap~$4.45B24h Volume~$775MCirculating Supply~4.46B USD1Holders~617KRank#4 stablecoin by market cap Live price and supply data via CoinGecko and CoinMarketCap.
Note: as a stablecoin, USD1’s price is designed to stay near $1.00 — deviations of more than a fraction of a cent typically signal peg stress rather than “price movement” in the way a normal crypto asset would show it. For how USD1 fits into the broader market, see today’s crypto market overview.
What Is USD1? USD1 is a fiat-collateralized stablecoin issued by World Liberty Financial, the same company behind the WLFI governance token. Each USD1 is intended to be backed 1:1 by a corresponding dollar held in cash, short-duration US Treasury bills, and other cash equivalents through government money market funds. The stablecoin launched on Ethereum and BNB Chain in March 2025 and was designed from the outset for institutional settlement rather than retail spending — WLFI co-founder Zach Witkoff pitched it at launch as combining “the power of DeFi” with “the credibility and safeguards of the most respected names in traditional finance.”
That institutional framing has largely held up in practice. USD1’s fastest growth has come from large counterparty deals rather than organic retail demand — Forbes reported that Binance-linked wallets held roughly 87% of USD1 supply at one point, and Binance has run multiple liquidity-seeding campaigns, including a booster program that briefly offered up to 20% APR on USD1 deposits before being cut to 8%.
USD1 uses a standard mint-and-burn mechanism: new tokens are created only when an equivalent dollar amount is deposited with the custodian, and tokens are destroyed when holders redeem. BitGo Trust Company — which operates under a South Dakota trust charter — holds the reserves and processes institutional redemptions, typically within one to two business days. Retail holders generally don’t redeem directly with BitGo; instead, they convert USD1 to other stablecoins or fiat through exchanges and DEXs.
Two transparency mechanisms back the peg claim. A monthly attestation report, prepared by an independent accounting firm under 2025 AICPA criteria for asset-backed fiat-pegged tokens, confirms that USD1 tokens outstanding are matched or exceeded by reserve assets. A separate real-time proof-of-reserves dashboard, powered by a Chainlink oracle on Ethereum, shows total reserves, the collateralization ratio, and supply by network on an ongoing basis. World Liberty Financial introduced the live dashboard in February 2026, shortly after a brief depeg incident (more on that below).
It’s also worth knowing where the yield goes: interest earned on the underlying reserve assets accrues to BitGo and World Liberty Financial-affiliated entities — including a Trump-affiliated entity, DT Marks DEFI LLC — rather than to USD1 holders themselves. That’s standard practice across most fiat-backed stablecoins, including USDT and USDC, but it means holding USD1 doesn’t generate yield on its own; any return comes from separately supplying it to a lending protocol.
Which Blockchains Support USD1 USD1 launched on just two networks and has expanded aggressively since:
Ethereum and BNB Chain — the original launch networks and still the deepest liquidity venues Tron — where dollar-stablecoin transfer volume is heavily concentrated Solana — added as USD1 pushed into high-throughput DeFi Aptos, AB Core, Mantle, Monad, Plume, Morph — newer integrations added through 2025 and 2026 Tempo — the Stripe-backed layer-1, where USD1 launched natively in May 2026 as an early TIP-20 token Cross-chain transfers run on Chainlink’s Cross-Chain Interoperability Protocol (CCIP) rather than a proprietary bridge — a deliberate choice, since Circle’s competing CCTP standard is USDC-specific and unavailable to other issuers.
USD1 and World Liberty Financial USD1 can’t really be separated from the company behind it. World Liberty Financial was founded in late 2024 by Zachary Folkman, Chase Herro, and Zach and Donald Trump Jr., alongside other Trump family members, and describes Donald Trump as its “chief crypto advocate.” A Trump family business entity owns 60% of World Liberty Financial and is entitled to 75% of net proceeds from WLFI token sales as well as a share of stablecoin-related profits; by December 2025, the family had reportedly profited around $1 billion from token proceeds alone.
The project has also drawn foreign investment at a scale unusual for a young crypto company. A firm tied to the Abu Dhabi royal family purchased $2 billion of USD1 in 2025, and reporting from the New York Times indicated Abu Dhabi-linked interests separately agreed to acquire a 49% stake in WLFI. These ties, combined with the Trump family’s direct financial stake, have made USD1 a recurring subject of conflict-of-interest reporting rather than a purely technical stablecoin story — worth factoring in alongside the reserve and custody details above.
On the regulatory side, USD1’s structure is built to align with the GENIUS Act, the federal stablecoin law signed in July 2025 that requires full reserve backing, monthly public disclosure, and licensed-issuer status for payment stablecoins. Implementation is still ongoing through 2026, and in January 2026 a World Liberty trust entity applied for a US national banking charter, which — if granted — would give the issuer direct bank-grade infrastructure instead of relying solely on BitGo as custodian.
USD1 vs. USDT vs. USDC USD1USDTUSDCIssuerWorld Liberty FinancialTetherCircleMarket cap (mid-2026)~$4.5B~$170B+~$73BCustodianBitGo TrustTether InternationalRegulated banking partnersReserve attestationMonthly (AICPA standard)QuarterlyMonthlyChains~10, incl. Ethereum, BNB Chain, Tron, Solana15+20+Primary use caseInstitutional settlement, DeFi collateralTrading pairs, EM remittanceRegulated payments, DeFi USD1 is far smaller than the two incumbents and has no realistic path to displacing either in the near term. Its differentiation is regulatory positioning and political access rather than scale: it launched compliance-first under a framework built toward the GENIUS Act, and its sponsors have secured settlement deals — like the MGX-Binance transaction — that smaller or newer stablecoins typically can’t access.
Risks Worth Knowing USD1 briefly depegged to around $0.994 in February 2026, an incident WLFI attributed to a coordinated attack on co-founders’ social media accounts — a claim that hasn’t been independently verified. The peg recovered within roughly 30 minutes and reserves were confirmed intact, but the episode prompted the launch of the real-time proof-of-reserves dashboard described above.
Supply concentration is a separate concern: with the bulk of USD1 historically held in Binance-linked wallets, the token’s liquidity and price stability depend heavily on a small number of large holders rather than a broad, diversified base. World Liberty Financial’s own risk disclosures also note that USD1 is not legal tender and not deposit-insured, and that BitGo or WLFI-affiliated parties retain the ability to freeze or block specific addresses — a level of centralized control that’s common among regulated stablecoins but worth being aware of before treating USD1 as equivalent to holding cash.
Finally, USD1 is young and its issuer is young: World Liberty Financial has faced congressional scrutiny over conflicts of interest and, separately, a defamation lawsuit tied to public criticism of the project. None of this affects whether current reserves back current supply, but it’s relevant to how much institutional trust the project can sustain if political or legal pressure increases.
Where to Buy USD1 USD1 is listed on most major centralized exchanges as well as several DEXs:
Binance — deepest liquidity, multiple pairs including USD1/USDT and BTC/USD1 Coinbase — added USD1 support as part of WLFI’s push for mainstream accessibility Kraken, OKX, Bybit, Gate, MEXC, Bitget Raydium and PancakeSwap for on-chain swaps via Solana and BNB Chain respectively Self-custody wallets that support USD1’s underlying networks (MetaMask, Phantom, and similar) can hold the token directly using its contract address once added manually or through an exchange’s “add to wallet” integration.
Frequently Asked Questions What is USD1 stablecoin? USD1 is a US dollar-pegged stablecoin issued by World Liberty Financial, a company co-founded by members of the Trump family. It's backed 1:1 by cash and short-term US Treasury securities held through custodian BitGo Trust, with monthly reserve attestations and a real-time proof-of-reserves dashboard.
How do I buy USD1 stablecoin? USD1 trades on major exchanges including Binance, Coinbase, Kraken, OKX, and Bybit, as well as decentralized exchanges like Raydium and PancakeSwap. Create an account on a supported exchange, deposit funds, and trade for USD1 directly or swap another stablecoin like USDT or USDC for it.
Who owns USD1 stablecoin? USD1 is issued by World Liberty Financial, which is majority-owned by a Trump family business entity entitled to 75% of net token sale proceeds and a share of stablecoin profits. Reserves backing USD1 are held by custodian BitGo Trust Company, not by World Liberty Financial directly.
Which blockchain is USD1 on? USD1 runs natively on roughly ten blockchains, including Ethereum, BNB Chain, Tron, Solana, Aptos, and the Stripe-backed Tempo network. Cross-chain transfers use Chainlink's CCIP protocol rather than a single native chain.
Is USD1 safe? USD1 is backed by cash and short-term US Treasuries held with a regulated custodian and publishes monthly attestations, similar to USDC's model. It briefly depegged in February 2026 but recovered within 30 minutes with reserves confirmed intact. As with any stablecoin, it isn't deposit-insured or legal tender, and holders should weigh custodial and issuer-concentration risk before use.
Zebec integroval stablecoin USD1 od World Liberty do celého ekosystému, včetně mezd, plateb a výnosů. USD1 je nyní nativně podporován v aplikaci Zebec Super App i na kartách ZebecCards.
USD1 Goes Live Across Zebec's Full Platform@Zebec_HQ has integrated @worldlibertyfi's $USD1 stablecoin into its entire ecosystem, covering payrolls, payments, and yield. The move positions $USD1 as a core settlement asset within Zebec's financial infrastructure and extends the stablecoin's real-world utility beyond trading and DeFi.
According to CryptoNews, $USD1 is now supported natively inside the Zebec Super App, meaning teams can use the stablecoin directly within the existing platform without bridging to another network or switching tools. Users with @ZebecCards can also receive payroll spend in $USD1, and the integration provides direct access to WLFI markets from within Zebec.
Zebec has also indicated it plans to add further yield solutions later this year, signalling that the $USD1 integration is a starting point rather than a finished product.
What USD1 Brings to Zebec's InfrastructureTimes of Blockchain reports that the rollout reaches more than 65,000 workers across the US and global markets, giving staff the ability to receive, use, and move $USD1 via wallets and cards issued by Zebec. Employees can also access funds through Zebec-issued cards, linking blockchain settlement with everyday payment rails.
$USD1 is custodied by BitGo Trust Company and backed by cash and short-duration US Treasury bills held through government money market funds. Launched in March 2025, the stablecoin had grown to a circulating supply near $4.5 billion by Q1 2026, making it one of the fastest-growing fiat-backed stablecoins in the market.
For Zebec, the integration also aligns with the platform's broader institutional ambitions. Zebec completed its final ZBCN token unlock in March 2026, shifting to a deflationary revenue-funded buyback model, and has been expanding its payroll infrastructure across multiple blockchains. The addition of $USD1 reinforces its position as a multi-chain payroll and payments platform targeting enterprise-scale adoption.
Sources:
CryptoNews: World LibertyFi's USD1 Is Now Live In The Zebec Super App
Times of Blockchain: Zebec Expands USD1 Daily Payroll to 65K+ Global Workers
Eco: USD1 Stablecoin by World Liberty Financial
Elizabeth Warren chce přísnější pravidla, která by Donaldu Trumpovi a jeho rodině zabránila vydělávat na kryptu. Nové finanční přiznání ukázalo příjmy přes 1,2 miliardy USD v roce 2025.
Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) pushed for stronger legislation to bar President Donald Trump and his family from profiting off cryptocurrency, after new disclosures on Tuesday revealed income in excess of $1 billion in 2025.
Warren Demands Improved Crypto BillWarren said that the cryptocurrency legislation, i.e., the Clarity Act, eligible for a full floor vote in the Senate, must have provisions to stop Trump and his family from making money from cryptocurrency ventures.
Steve Rattner, a well-known Wall Street financier, weighed in on the financial benefits of the “Trump family’s White House self-dealing.”
‘Not A Good Look’Lawrence Lepard, an investment manager and Austrian economist, said that the disclosure didn’t give a “good look” and could spark political backlash against cryptocurrency if Democrats regain power.
Former Trump White House lawyer Ty Cobb was sharply critical of Trump’s cryptocurrency fortune, deeming it as “greatest onslaught of corruption in the history of mankind.”
Trump Made A Bomb With CryptoAccording to financial disclosure released on Tuesday, Trump’s cryptocurrency ventures netted him roughly $1.2 billion in 2025, the very first year of his presidency.
The windfall included over $520 million from the sale of tokens issued by World Liberty Financial and more than $635 million in royalties collected from the Official Trump (CRYPTO: TRUMP) memecoin.
The White House didn’t immediately return Benzinga’s request for comment.
Photo courtesy: Sheila Fitzgerald on Shutterstock.com
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Trumpovo finanční přiznání ukázalo asi 646 milionů USD z kryptoměnových aktivit, což překonalo jeho příjmy z nemovitostí a resortů. Nejvíc vynesl World Liberty Financial s asi 588 miliony USD z prodeje tokenů.
According to Donald Trump’s 2025 financial disclosure, the former US President’s income from cryptocurrency-linked ventures soared to approximately $646 million. The filings show that revenue from the Trump family’s digital asset activities outpaced other sources during a period marked by friendlier administration policies toward crypto. However, critics argue that this surge in income has reignited debates about potential conflicts of interest.
Crypto revenues take the leadOne of the most notable entries in the disclosure is World Liberty Financial, a decentralized finance (DeFi) platform operated by the Trump family, which generated about $588 million through token sales. DeFi platforms facilitate financial transactions on the blockchain without intermediaries—offering an alternative to traditional banking systems.
Glossary: DeFi refers to blockchain-based services delivering financial products without the need for traditional intermediaries, such as banks or brokers. A cold wallet is a type of storage method that keeps digital assets offline, enhancing security against online threats.
Trump’s crypto-related earnings surpassed even his well-known real estate and resort income. The disclosure listed more than $290 million in combined revenue from Florida’s Mar-a-Lago Club and various golf resorts and vacation properties.
Income SourceAmountTotal crypto-linked incomeApproximately $646 millionWorld Liberty Financial token salesApproximately $588 millionReal estate and resort incomeOver $290 millionWhite House Deputy Press Secretary Anna Kelly argued that Trump has positioned the US as a global crypto leader, insisting that neither the former president nor his family face any conflicts of interest and will continue to avoid such situations in the future.
Bitcoin and Ether holdings declaredThe disclosure also revealed that Trump holds more than $50 million in Bitcoin stored in cold wallets. In addition, he reported between $5 million and $25 million in Ether, along with declarations of USDC and USD Key assets.
Throughout 2025, the Trump administration gained attention for introducing more crypto-friendly regulatory frameworks, executive actions supporting digital assets, and policy choices favoring the sector. As a result, crypto markets reached all-time highs, further boosting revenues from the family’s digital ventures.
Criticism and responseThe Trump Organization defended the scope of the financial disclosure, stating it demonstrates a commitment to transparency. The company highlighted that the detailed nature of these documents serves to inform the public.
Robert Weissman, co-president of the advocacy group Public Citizen, contended that Trump’s personal financial interests are now closely tied to the crypto industry, warning that this could pave the way for regulations potentially harmful to consumers and financial stability.
Public Citizen, a nonprofit focused on consumer rights, issued a sharp critique of the earnings report. The organization has called on Congress to investigate potential conflicts of interest and take appropriate action if necessary.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article does not constitute investment advice. Investors should be aware that cryptocurrencies carry high volatility and therefore risk, and should conduct their own research.
WLFI je čistě governance token: dává právo hlasovat o WLF Protocol, ale ne dividendy, podíl na příjmech ani vlastnický nárok. Zisk z 2% stakingu je jen pobídka financovaná z treasury pro stakery, kteří drží 180 dní a hlasují alespoň ve dvou hlasováních.
WLFI Is a Governance TokenOwning WLFI tokens gives you one thing: the right to participate in governance of the WLF Protocol. The official risk disclosures are direct about this.
Holding the token does not provide any right to any dividend, reward, airdrop, or other distribution or form of income. If that framing sounds narrow, that is because it is supposed to be. The project explicitly says holders do not receive returns, dividends, airdrops, distributions, or any financial interest in World Liberty Financial LLC or its affiliates.
World Liberty Financial (WLF) is a DeFi protocol backed by the Trump family that launched its governance token, WLFI, in October 2024. The token sale raised a total of $550 million. 20% of the total token supply was offered at a fully diluted valuation of $1.5 billion, and as demand increased, an additional 5% was offered at a fully diluted valuation of $5 billion.
As of late June 2026, WLFI trades at approximately $0.058, with a circulating supply of roughly 31.77 billion tokens and a market cap of approximately $1.85 billion.
What WLFI Token Holders Actually GetUnderstanding the token requires separating what is currently live from what is proposed or pending.
Governance Voting RightsHolders can steer the future of the platform by proposing and voting on changes to protocol rules and parameters through the WLF Governance Platform. Voting happens through Snapshot, an off-chain voting tool widely used in DeFi.
Each WLFI token represents one vote. No single wallet or affiliated group may vote with more than 5% of the outstanding votable token supply, regardless of the total tokens held. This cap is intended to limit concentration of control.
There are practical limits here worth noting. World Liberty Financial is a Delaware non-stock corporation that screens proposals, uses off-chain Snapshot voting, and implements outcomes through multisignature wallets under company control, so token votes can be filtered or overruled for legal or operational reasons. That is meaningfully different from a DAO where on-chain votes automatically execute code.
Access to the WLFI Markets Lending PlatformThrough WLFI Markets, users can supply assets to earn potential rewards or use their digital assets as collateral to borrow funds. This lending and borrowing service is powered by the Dolomite protocol and launched in January 2026.
Cross-Chain Transfers and Conversion ToolsUsers can transfer USD1 or WLFI tokens between integrated networks and quickly convert other cryptocurrencies for USD1 or WLFI and vice versa. The bridge currently supports Ethereum and Solana.
A Staking Yield Mechanism (Passed, Rolling Out)A governance proposal introduced in February 2026 passed with 99.16% community approval and is now being implemented. Under the system, unlocked WLFI tokens must be staked for at least 180 days to gain governance rights. Stakers who participate in at least two governance votes during their lock period earn a base reward with a 2% annualized yield target, funded from the WLFI treasury.
The system also introduces tiered participation levels. Participants staking at least 10 million WLFI, roughly $1 million at recent prices, are labeled "Nodes" and gain access to licensed market makers to convert USDT and USDC into USD1 at a 1:1 rate. Those staking more than 50 million WLFI are designated "Super Nodes," with benefits that include priority access to partnership discussions with the development team.
Token Supply and Allocation ContextWLFI has a maximum supply of 100 billion tokens. The initial token allocation was heavily concentrated, with 33.5% allocated to the team and advisors. Of that 33.5%, 22.5% is held by the Trump family and affiliated business entities.
Some sources place the combined non-public allocation even higher. Reports indicate approximately 70.8% of the supply is allocated to the founding team, advisors, and service providers, with the 33.5% figure covering the formal team and advisor category specifically. Either way, public token buyers hold about a third of all tokens, meaning insiders could outvote outsiders on every governance proposal.
It is also worth noting that the public $550 million raise was not the full picture. A Bloomberg investigation revealed that after the two public fundraising rounds, World Liberty Financial sold an additional 5.9 billion WLFI tokens to accredited private investors in transactions that were not publicly disclosed, potentially raising hundreds of millions of dollars more, with a significant portion of proceeds going to founder-affiliated entities. This undisclosed sale was discovered by intelligence platform Tokenomist(.)ai after examining World Liberty's governance filings.
What Does WLFI Token NOT Give You?This is where many buyers have been caught off guard.
No dividends or equity-style returns from protocol revenues. The Gold Paper states that WLFI is not equity or a share in any entity, does not confer any financial interest in any entity, and does not provide a right to any return, dividend, airdrop, or other distribution from protocol operations. Note that the 2% annual staking yield introduced in February 2026 is not a dividend or revenue share. It is a treasury-funded incentive paid only to holders who stake their unlocked tokens for 180 days and vote in at least two governance proposals. It is participation-based, not passive, and comes from the WLFI treasury, not from protocol profits.
No ownership in World Liberty Financial. The token provides governance input over the WLF Protocol only, not the company itself. The token does not provide any economic or other rights with respect to the WLF Protocol or otherwise. Token holders will not have any rights to any fees generated by the WLF Protocol or earned by the company.
No guaranteed liquidity. Early buyers faced long lock-up periods. On around September 1, 2025, 20% of tokens purchased during early rounds became available for unlocking. The WLFI community then passed a governance proposal in May 2026 establishing a structured unlock schedule for remaining locked tokens. Holders who do not accept the unlock schedule keep their tokens locked indefinitely, though they retain governance voting rights.
No share of protocol revenues for retail holders. According to the official Terms and Conditions, all net protocol revenues are split entirely between insider entities. DT Marks DeFi, LLC and its affiliates, including Donald J. Trump, are entitled to 75% of net protocol revenues from any sources, after deduction of agreed reserves and expenses. The remaining 25% goes to other WLF directors, officers, advisors, promoters, and service providers. Retail WLFI holders receive none of it. The USD1 holding campaigns run by Binance and Bybit distribute WLFI tokens as incentives, but those are exchange-run marketing programs using WLFI from the treasury allocation, not distributions of protocol revenue to retail holders.
Is WLFI Governance Real or Mostly Symbolic?Even the most engaged prior vote attracted only 11.1 billion WLFI in voting power, with a quorum of just 1 billion required to pass proposals. That is a low bar for a token with 100 billion total supply, suggesting most holders do not actively participate. The February 2026 staking proposal received overwhelming support but more than 76% of the voting power came from just ten users, raising persistent questions about whether governance is truly decentralized.
The Justin Sun dispute in April 2026 sharpened those concerns further. Sun claimed that he had been denied the voting rights he had been promised for the WLFI token and that wallets had been frozen. Sun's allegations, if true, reveal that World Liberty retained sweeping unilateral control over WLFI. World Liberty Financial denied wrongdoing and the matter went to federal court in California.
The HTX incident in June 2026 made the freeze function even more visible. WLFI froze on-chain addresses linked to HTX on June 5, 2026 with no prior notice, locking assets belonging to individual retail users. HTX suspended four WLFI and USD1 trading pairs, converted all user USD1 balances to USDT at 1:1, and fully delisted USD1 on June 7, 2026.
The root cause was that the UK designated Huobi Global S.A., the entity linked to HTX, under Russia sanctions on May 26, 2026, and WLFI cited its sanctions compliance framework as the basis for restricting token circulation on HTX-linked addresses. HTX stated the frozen assets belonged to individual retail users, not to any sanctioned entity, and formally demanded WLFI lift the freeze.
WLFI Tokenomics: The Numbers You Should KnowOn the supply side, the circulating supply currently stands at approximately 31.77 billion tokens, representing 31.77% of the 100 billion maximum supply. This is a meaningful increase from the roughly 27 billion figure reported earlier in 2026, reflecting tokens released through the structured unlock schedule passed in May 2026.
The protocol intends to use its net revenue to repurchase WLFI tokens from the open market and burn them, permanently removing tokens from circulation to reduce the overall supply. Token burns are a common tokenomics tool across DeFi projects to manage circulating supply over time, used by projects like BNB and others, though the effect depends on burn volume relative to total supply.
On the ecosystem front, Binance Wallet launched a campaign from June 19 to July 18, 2026, distributing 16 million WLFI tokens to users who interact with the USD1 stablecoin on partner protocols like PancakeSwap, Lorenzo Protocol, and Lista DAO, with eligible activities including lending, staking, and providing liquidity. This is the most active exchange-level incentive campaign currently running within the ecosystem.
ConclusionWLFI is a governance token that gives holders a capped vote on WLF Protocol decisions, access to a lending and borrowing platform via WLFI Markets, cross-chain transfer tools, and a participation-based 2% annual staking yield for those who commit to a 180-day lock and actively vote. It does not give holders dividends, revenue sharing, equity in World Liberty Financial, or any guaranteed return.
The project has exercised its on-chain freeze function in multiple high-profile disputes, including against Justin Sun's wallet in 2025 and HTX-linked user addresses in June 2026. Anyone evaluating WLFI should read the official risk disclosures carefully, track the ongoing unlock schedule, and treat the freeze function as a live variable in any risk assessment.
ResourcesWorld Liberty Financial Risk Disclosures – Official token rights, limitations, and holder obligationsWorld Liberty Financial Token Unlock – Full unlock schedule, eligibility, and smart contract processWorld Liberty Financial Official Site – WLFI Markets, AgentPay SDK, and bridge toolsCoinMarketCap: WLFI – Live price, circulating supply, and market cap dataTokenomist: WLFI Vesting Schedule – Circulating supply breakdown and full unlock timelineDuke FinReg Blog: Is WLFI an Unregistered Security? – Legal analysis of the Gold Paper and securities classificationThe Block: WLFI Staking Governance Proposal – Original reporting on the 180-day staking and 2% yield proposalCoinPaprika: HTX Delists USD1 After WLFI Freeze – Full timeline of the June 2026 HTX freeze and USD1 delistingBitcoinist: WLFI Undisclosed Token Sales – Bloomberg investigation into undisclosed 5.9 billion WLFI token salesCoinMarketCap: WLFI Latest Updates – June 2026 Binance campaign details and current ecosystem news
World Liberty Financial zahájila kroky k zalistování WLFI na kryptoburzách. Token, původně nepřevoditelný governance token, se už na sekundárním trhu obchoduje mezi 0,13 až 0,18 USD.
World Liberty Financial, a decentralized finance (DeFi) platform backed by President Donald Trump and his family, is poised to launch its WLFI token, which could hold significant profits for early investors.
WLFI Token Launch Approaches The company announced on July 4 that it has initiated steps to have its flagship token listed on cryptocurrency exchanges, marking a crucial milestone after months of anticipation.
The WLFI token, which was introduced last year as a non-transferable governance token, is designed to facilitate community voting on the project’s future direction.
Secondary market trading has already commenced on platforms like Whales.market and MEXC, where WLFI has recently traded between $0.13 to $0.18, a notable increase from its initial sale prices of $1.5 and $0.5.
According to the project’s white paper, entities affiliated with the Trump family may collectively hold about one-third of WLFI’s total supply of 100 billion tokens. At current prices, these holdings could represent billions of dollars on paper.
Bruno Ver, market expert and investor in the WLFI token, expressed optimism about its potential value, predicting it could reach between $2 and $5 in the near future.
If the token were to climb to $2, the stake held by the founding entities could theoretically be worth around $60 billion, making it one of the most lucrative Trump-related crypto ventures to date.
Recent estimates suggest that crypto businesses have already added approximately $620 million to Donald Trump’s personal net worth, according to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index.
Experts Warn Of Risks Despite the enthusiasm surrounding WLFI, the White House has emphasized that President Trump is distanced from his business interests, having placed his assets in a family-controlled trust.
The current proposal for token release, dated July 4, aims to unlock a portion of tokens held by “early supporters,” although the term lacks a specific definition within the documentation.
Remaining tokens, including those held by founders and team members, would be subject to future votes and longer lock-up periods to signal a commitment to the project. The proposal is expected to undergo discussion and voting on the Snapshot platform, with a potential timeline extending into August.
However, experts caution that the path to a successful launch might come with risks for early holders. Lex Sokolin, managing partner at Generative Ventures, pointed out that tokens with substantial founder and investor allocations often experience significant price declines over time.
World Liberty Financial’s token launch and the Trump family’s increased interest in digital assets comes on the heels of notable regulatory changes in the US as the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has adopted a more lenient stance toward crypto.
This may signal a sense of confidence from WLFI regarding regulatory scrutiny. Hilary Allen, a law professor at American University, noted that this shift suggests WLFI no longer perceives a threat from the SEC.
The 1D chart shows Trump’s official memecoin struggling to break free from its current downtrend. Source: TRUMPUSDT on TradingView.com Featured image from DALL-E, chart from TradingView.com
Senátní demokraté vyzvali republikánské vedení Senátu k zahájení slyšení ohledně údajné dohody za 500 milionů USD mezi kryptofirmou rodiny Trumpa a královskou rodinou z Abú Zabí. Chtějí slyšení i výpovědi úředníků administrativy pod přísahou.
A group of US Senate Democrats is urging Senate Republican leaders to hold hearings into a reported $500 million deal between the Trump family’s crypto firm and Abu Dhabi royalty.
In a letter on Tuesday, the Democrats told Republicans, who control the Senate, lead its committees and decide on hearings, that they should “immediately hold hearings” into the deal and have Trump administration officials testify about it under oath.
The Wall Street Journal reported in January that an Abu Dhabi investment company backed by Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the United Arab Emirates’ national security adviser, signed a deal in January 2025 to buy a 49% stake in World Liberty Financial, the crypto platform tied to US President Donald Trump.
Months later, in May 2025, the Trump administration made a major arms and artificial intelligence chip deal with the UAE, which the Democratic senators said came “despite concerns raised by US national security officials that China could access the chips.” Trump has said he wasn’t aware of the World Liberty deal.
The letter is the Democrats' latest bid to probe World Liberty Financial’s dealings and its possible ties to decisions the president has made. Both Trump critics and supporters have criticized the perceived conflict of interest posed by the Trump family’s sprawling crypto interests amid Trump’s push to deregulate the sector.
Donald Trump (right) meeting with Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan (centre) at the White House in March 2025. Source: The White House
“We are deeply concerned about this series of events, which raise questions about what more the UAE may receive — or may have already received — at the expense of US national security after investing in the Trump family crypto company,” the Democrats wrote.
“Congress has a responsibility to investigate the details of the reported investment and whether it influenced subsequent actions by President Trump and the Trump Administration,” they added.
The senators said that they’re also concerned about the Trump administration’s “steps to weaken enforcement” by exempting crypto service providers from financial services regulations and disbanding the Justice Department’s crypto enforcement team.
Senators Elizabeth Warren, Richard Blumenthal, Gary Peters, Dick Durbin and Ron Wyden signed the letter.
Warren has called for an investigation into the UAE deal before, urging Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent in February to determine if the deal should be subject to a Committee on Foreign Investment probe.
Earlier this year, Democrats pressed Securities and Exchange Commission Chair Paul Atkins over the decision to drop a fraud case against Justin Sun, a major World Liberty Financial backer.
In May, Democratic Senator Peter Welch and Representative Dave Min launched a probe into Trump’s pardons, including that of Binance co-founder Changpeng Zhao.
The pardon came after Binance accepted a $2 billion investment from an Abu Dhabi fund in early 2025 and agreed for the funds to be paid in World Liberty Financial’s stablecoin, USD1.
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Objem USD1 v oběhu za posledních sedm dní vzrostl o 9,7 % na 4,85 miliardy USD a stablecoin od World Liberty Financial se tak dostal před Sky’s USDS v čistých týdenních přílivech.
USD1's circulating supply expanded 9.7% over the past seven days to $4.85 billion, a 100th-percentile move that pushes the World Liberty Financial-issued stablecoin past Sky's USDS in net weekly inflows.
USD1's circulating supply expanded 9.7% over the past seven days to $4.85 billion, a 100th-percentile move on the World Liberty Financial-issued stablecoin's three-month supply history.
The dollar increase works out to roughly $427 million in new tokens between Monday last week and Sunday, according to DefiLlama's stablecoin tracker. USD1's 30-day change is under 1%, so nearly the entire move happened in the past nine days, after a mid-June low of $4.34 billion. The asset is now the fourth-largest dollar-pegged stablecoin, behind Tether, USDC and Sky's USDS.
USD1 circulating supply, March 25 to June 22, 2026. Trough $4.34B on June 13; peak $4.84B on June 22, a 9.7% seven-day expansion. Source: DefiLlama.Where the Tokens LiveUSD1 circulates across eight chains, with Ethereum carrying $1.99 billion (41%), BSC $1.80 billion (37%) and Solana $1.02 billion (21%). Aptos, Tron, Plume, Monad and Abcore split the remainder. The stablecoin is described by issuer World Liberty Financial as backed by U.S. Treasuries and cash equivalents, with mint and redeem flows handled by authorized institutional partners against custodied reserves. DefiLlama's record for the token lists no public audit attestation.
Two Top-10 Stablecoins Went the Other WayTwo other stablecoins in the same size tier contracted over the same window, while the overall stablecoin market cap was flat at $315.5 billion. Sky's USDS supply dropped 3.5% in seven days to $8.16 billion, shedding roughly $295 million, per DefiLlama. PayPal's PYUSD slipped 1.1% on the week to $2.74 billion and is down 24% over 30 days, a trajectory PayPal has not publicly addressed.
The three coins span the $2 billion to $9 billion supply band and overlap on institutional and payments use cases. USD1 added net supply in the same seven days the other two lost it.
What's Driving the MintTwo recent USD1 distribution channels could plausibly account for new issuance: Aster's announcement that its real-world-asset perpetuals would settle exclusively in USD1, and World Liberty Financial's payout of UFC Freedom 250 prize money in USD1 at the White House earlier this month.
WLFI, the project's governance token, trades at $0.0591 with a $1.88 billion market cap and is down 2.1% on the week, according to DefiLlama's price feed. The rebound is concentrated in the stablecoin, not the governance token.
