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A UAE-linked investment firm quietly acquired a 49% stake in World Liberty Financial (WLFI), a cryptocurrency venture tied to the Trump family, for $500 million just days before Donald Trump’s second inauguration in January 2025, according to reports from The Wall Street Journal and other outlets. The deal has ignited debates over potential conflicts of interest, transparency, and geopolitical implications, particularly as it preceded U.S. approval for the UAE to access advanced American AI chips.
Aryam Investment, backed by Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan—an influential Abu Dhabi royal and UAE national security adviser—signed the agreement on January 16, 2025, with Eric Trump representing WLFI. An initial $250 million was paid upfront, channeling $187 million to Trump family-controlled entities and additional funds to co-founders linked to U.S. Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff. WLFI, co-founded by Trump family members, aims to expand blockchain and digital asset services, including DeFi lending and borrowing.
Critics, including Sen. Elizabeth Warren, labeled the transaction “corruption,” urging Congress to investigate and “grow a spine” amid concerns over foreign influence on U.S. policy. Watchdog groups highlighted risks of governance lapses and regulatory scrutiny, given Trump’s political ties and the UAE’s push for tech access.
WLFI representatives emphasized full compliance with U.S. and UAE regulations, stating the funds will fuel infrastructure growth, new product launches, and global partnerships. The UAE continues to solidify its role as a crypto hub, but the deal underscores tensions at the nexus of politics, finance, and emerging tech, prompting calls for enhanced oversight in politically connected ventures.
