Trump-Backed World Liberty Plots 'Exit Mechanism' for Maldives Hotel Tokenization Project
Decrypt
by André BeganskiFebruary 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
World Liberty Financial (WLFI), a Trump-backed firm, has introduced an innovative "exit mechanism" for its luxury Maldivian resort tokenization project, addressing a key challenge in the crypto and real estate sectors: liquidity. Unlike traditional tokenized assets, which often lack exit options, WLFI's project allows accredited investors to access their funds even before the resort opens in 2030. This mechanism aims to bridge the gap between the speculative nature of meme coins and the long-term timeline of international real estate development.
The project, a collaboration with Saudi developer DarGlobal, involves building 100 beach and overwater villas in the Maldives. Tokens will be issued through Securitize, a BlackRock-backed platform known for tokenizing illiquid assets. Investors can expect fixed yields and loan revenue streams tied to the $300 million property, with potential future income from villa sales. DarGlobal's commitment to retaining a 30% equity stake ensures alignment of interests, signaling confidence in the project's success.
Eric Trump emphasized that this offering caters to crypto investors seeking diverse asset classes under different time horizons. While meme coins offer quick exits, WLFI's model provides "optionality" for those willing to invest long-term. However, the initial offering is limited to accredited investors, reflecting the current regulatory landscape of high-stakes, high-reward projects.
This initiative matters because it addresses a critical flaw in tokenization: liquidity. Many previous attempts failed to provide viable exit paths, leaving investors stuck with illiquid assets. WLFI's approach not only offers a solution but also expands investment opportunities for crypto-savvy individuals looking for alternatives to meme coins and other speculative assets. By combining luxury real estate with blockchain technology, the project taps into the growing interest in institutional-grade, real-world assets (RWAs) while democratizing access for accredited investors.
Ultimately, WLFI's Maldives tokenization project represents a new frontier in crypto-driven real estate development. It marries the speed and innovation of decentralized finance (DeFi) with the stability of luxury hospitality, creating a unique value proposition for investors seeking both liquidity and long-term growth potential.
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Originally published on Decrypt on 2/20/2026