Trump Media and Technology Group said it will distribute a new cryptocurrency token to its shareholders, expanding its involvement in digital assets as policy support for the sector grows in Washington (31/12).

The company, which is linked to U.S. President Donald Trump and operates the Truth Social platform, said shareholders will receive one digital token for each share they hold, with more details about the launch expected in 2026.

Shares of Trump Media were up about 5% in early trading following the announcement.

Cryptocurrencies have become a recurring feature of the Trump family’s business activities, with critics raising concerns about potential conflicts of interest given Trump’s pledge to make the United States the “crypto capital of the planet.”

Since Trump returned to the White House in January, the environment for crypto businesses has turned more favorable, with legislation passed during the summer covering parts of the sector and several enforcement cases being abandoned.

During the campaign, Trump courted industry support by promising to be a “crypto president,” while family-related crypto ventures, including World Liberty Financial, have helped bring digital assets further into the mainstream.

Days before his inauguration, Trump launched a meme coin called $TRUMP, which climbed to more than $14.5 billion in market value before crashing.

The White House has rejected allegations of conflicts of interest, saying Trump’s multibillion-dollar real estate, golf, media, and other business holdings are placed in a trust managed by his children.

Trump Media said the new digital token is expected to operate on the Cronos blockchain.

The announcement comes during a downturn in crypto markets, with bitcoin down about 6% this year and heading for its first annual loss since 2022, as investors reduce exposure to more volatile assets.

PHOTO: FREEPIK

This article was created with AI assistance.