Trump meme coin gala bidders use exchanges that ban U.S. users

An analysis of cryptocurrency holdings reveals that at least 52 of the top 100 holders of the $TRUMP meme coin are using exchanges that prohibit U.S. customers. These individuals are competing for seats at a gala hosted by President Donald Trump on November 22 near Washington, D.C.

Data from crypto tracking firm Arkham indicates that holders tied to platforms such as Binance, Bybit, and MEXC account for approximately $6.8 million of the leaderboard’s total value of more than $15 million. At least 44 of these top holders had previously moved funds through Binance before acquiring the token.

Critics and ethics experts have raised concerns regarding potential foreign influence. Zach Everson of Public Citizen noted that the situation appears to allow foreign actors direct access to the president, while former White House ethics lawyer Virginia Canter suggested that overseas exchanges are facilitating foreign investors in buying seats at the president’s table.