Politics
Circle investor challenges Trump-linked crypto deals in federal court
A Circle Internet Group shareholder has sued President Donald Trump and World Liberty Financial, alleging two deals connected to the United Arab Emirates violate the Constitution’s foreign emoluments clause. The company says it complies with U.S. law.
A shareholder of cryptocurrency company Circle Internet Group sued President Donald Trump and World Liberty Financial in federal court on Thursday, alleging the president profited from his office through two business deals tied to the United Arab Emirates.
The complaint says the arrangements violate the Constitution’s foreign emoluments clause, which bars a president from accepting benefits from a foreign government without congressional approval. The suit targets World Liberty Financial, a crypto venture co-founded by Trump and his sons.
The complaint argues that the deals allowed Trump to benefit financially while serving as president. It describes the alleged conduct as an unprecedented use of the office for personal gain. The claims have not been established in court.
David Wachsman, a spokesperson for World Liberty Financial, said the company is “compliant with all U.S. laws and regulations.” The information available about the case did not identify the two deals or specify what relief the shareholder is seeking.
The lawsuit puts renewed attention on potential conflicts between the financial interests of a sitting president and the constitutional limits on accepting benefits connected to foreign governments. It was filed Oct. 22, 2026.