Senators ask Bessent to probe $500M UAE stake in Trump-linked WLFI

CoinTelegraph

by Amin Haqshanas

February 15, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Two US senators, Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts and Andy Kim of New Jersey, have called on the Treasury Department to investigate a $500 million investment by a UAE-backed entity in World Liberty Financial Inc. (WLFI), a cryptocurrency firm linked to Donald Trump's family. The senators expressed concerns over national security, foreign influence, and potential access to sensitive financial data, urging the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) to review the deal. The investment reportedly occurred just days before Trump’s inauguration, making the UAE-backed fund the largest shareholder and the only publicly known outside investor in WLFI. In a letter to Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, who chairs CFIUS, the senators asked for confirmation that the committee was notified about the transaction and requested a thorough investigation if necessary. The senators emphasized the importance of ensuring that foreign investments in US-based tech and financial firms align with national security interests. They stressed the need for an unbiased review to prevent potential risks associated with foreign influence over critical sectors, particularly in emerging industries like cryptocurrency. This case highlights growing concerns over foreign investments in US technology and financial institutions, especially when tied to influential figures or politically sensitive ventures. Crypto enthusiasts may be particularly interested in how such investments could impact data security, market dynamics, and regulatory oversight in the blockchain space. The senators’ push for scrutiny underscores the ongoing tension between fostering innovation and protecting national interests in an increasingly globalized economy. As crypto continues to evolve, questions about foreign influence and data control are likely to remain at the forefront of policy discussions.

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Originally published on CoinTelegraph on 2/15/2026