On February 24, 2025, DTTM Operations LLC, the entity responsible for managing Trump Organization trademarks, filed a new trademark application with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). This move suggests that the Trump brand is positioning itself for a deeper expansion into the metaverse, blockchain-based services, and cryptocurrency ecosystems.
The trademark application covers a broad spectrum of digital assets, including:
- Trump-branded NFTs (non-fungible tokens)
- A virtual world featuring Trump-related content
- Cryptocurrency tokens
- Blockchain-based financial and entertainment services
Filed by attorney Michael Santucci of 500 Law, the application seeks approval for an interactive “online virtual environment” where users can buy, sell, and exchange digital collectibles tied to Donald J. Trump’s image, audio, video, and other media assets.
Beyond collectibles, the filing also outlines ambitious plans for a Trump-branded metaverse economy, including:
- A virtual real estate marketplace
- An online retail store for digital goods and services
- Simulation-based training programs in public service, business, fundraising, civics, real estate, construction, and hospitality management
Additionally, a Gerben IP report highlights that the application includes a “Trump” restaurant concept, described as an “immersive dining experience”—potentially blending virtual and physical worlds in a new way.
This filing signals a major step in the Trump Organization’s Web3 ambitions, reinforcing its commitment to leveraging blockchain technology and digital engagement in new business ventures.
Trump’s Expanding Web3 Footprint: Strategic or Opportunistic?
The latest Web3 trademark filing follows a series of digital asset ventures by Donald and Melania Trump. Last month, the couple introduced Trump- and Melania-branded meme coins, though these tokens faced significant price volatility and public scrutiny.
Prior to this, both had already launched NFT collections, capitalizing on Trump’s loyal political and business following. However, these moves have drawn skepticism regarding their long-term value and authenticity in the broader crypto market.
At the same time, Trump has positioned himself as an advocate for blockchain innovation, emphasizing pro-business regulatory policies that support digital assets.
In January, he signed an executive order establishing a federal crypto working group, tasking it with evaluating regulatory frameworks for blockchain and digital assets in the U.S..
However, the specific role of the metaverse in Trump’s long-term strategy remains uncertain. While his business empire expands into virtual spaces, regulatory and market uncertainties pose challenges to adoption.
Regulatory Implications: Trump’s Metaverse Move at a Policy Crossroads
Trump’s direct involvement in Web3 and metaverse ventures raises complex regulatory and ethical considerations, particularly as lawmakers struggle to define oversight frameworks for digital economies.
As digital asset regulation evolves, Trump’s latest foray into the metaverse could accelerate discussions on conflicts of interest, financial transparency, and political accountability.
This moment presents a critical regulatory crossroads, where:
- Political influence intersects with decentralized economies, prompting questions about fair competition and market integrity.
- Lawmakers must balance consumer protection with fostering innovation, ensuring digital economies develop responsibly.
- The metaverse’s potential for financial and political influence forces policymakers to rethink existing frameworks to prevent misuse.
Ultimately, Trump’s digital asset ventures may serve as a test case for how political figures can engage in blockchain-based economies—and whether emerging policies will prioritize public interests without stifling technological progress.
As these developments unfold, the long-term implications of merging political authority with metaverse ambitions remain to be seen.