Sun Jan 19 08:40:00 UTC 2025: ## Trump Launches Cryptocurrency, “TrumpCoin,” Reaching Billions in Market Cap Before Inauguration

**WASHINGTON, D.C. —** Incoming President Donald Trump launched a personal meme cryptocurrency, “$Trump,” which rapidly surged to a multi-billion dollar market capitalization just hours after its release. The coin, managed by CIC Digital LLC, a Trump Organization affiliate, debuted Friday evening on the heels of Trump’s announcement on his Truth Social platform.

The coin’s website boasts that approximately 200 million tokens have been released, with a further 800 million planned over the next three years. It describes the token as celebrating a leader who “never backs down from a challenge,” while disclaiming any political affiliation or intention to serve as an investment opportunity.

By Saturday afternoon, CoinMarketCap.com reported the market capitalization of “$Trump” had neared $5.5 billion. However, CIC Digital LLC and Fight Fight Fight LLC (a recently formed Delaware company) reportedly hold 80% of the tokens. Trump’s potential personal profit from the venture remains unclear.

Critics have raised concerns about the volatile nature of meme coins, their lack of intrinsic value, and the potential for exploitation. Cryptocurrency investor Nick Tomaino described the timing and Trump’s significant stake in the coin as “predatory,” warning of potential harm to investors. The launch comes amidst ongoing regulatory scrutiny of the cryptocurrency market in the US, with President Biden’s administration expressing concerns about fraud and money laundering.

Trump’s past stance on cryptocurrencies has been mixed; while previously expressing unease, he recently voiced intentions to make the US a global cryptocurrency hub. His sons, Eric and Donald Jr., launched their own cryptocurrency ventures last year. The sudden success of “$Trump” highlights the speculative nature of the meme coin market and raises questions about potential conflicts of interest given Trump’s upcoming presidency.

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