3 Sept 2025, 18:59

American Bitcoin, backed by Eric and Donald Trump Jr., debuts on Nasdaq under the ticker ABTC

American Bitcoin, a mining and crypto treasury company backed by President Donald Trump’s sons Eric Trump and Donald Trump Jr., launched trading on Wednesday on the Nasdaq under the ticker ABTC. The listing came just two days after another Trump-linked crypto project, World Liberty Financial, went live on exchanges, making this the second crypto debut tied to the family in the same week. American Bitcoin began trading at $6.90 per share after completing an all-stock merger with Gryphon Digital Mining. The company was originally a subsidiary of Hut 8, a publicly traded Bitcoin miner. Within the first hour, the stock spiked by as much as 90%, cooled, and by 11 a.m. New York time was still up over 40%. By closing time, it dipped into the red with a $45,000 trading volume logged before the bell. Trump brothers secure dominant ownership through merger American Bitcoin was formed in March through a merger between American Data Centers, a firm controlled by Eric and Don Jr., and Hut 8, which exchanged its mining business for an 80% stake in the new company. Afterward, the Trump brothers and Hut 8 retained 98% ownership, leaving almost no room for outsiders in the cap table, as confirmed by the Wall Street Journal. The company raised $220 million in a June private stock sale, pulling in a mix of bitcoin and cash from investors. That round included names like Cameron Winklevoss and Tyler Winklevoss, who co-founded Gemini. The funding was used to buy additional mining equipment and expand American Bitcoin’s crypto reserves ahead of going public. Speaking on the Nasdaq debut, Eric, who is listed as co-founder and chief strategy officer, said, “Our Nasdaq debut marks a historic milestone in bringing Bitcoin into the core of U.S. capital markets and advancing our mission to make America the undisputed leader of the global Bitcoin economy.” Eric Trump’s cut from a crypto company has already blown past $600 million, making it one of the clearest signs yet of how deep the first family’s pockets are getting from crypto. The Trump clan’s total fortune has jumped to over $6.4 billion, fueled by a mix of fresh crypto ventures. Eric’s personal haul isn’t listed on the Bloomberg Billionaires Index, but that same index says his piece of American Bitcoin alone is now worth more than the combined value of 13 Trump-branded golf courses and resorts. WLFI token listing adds second crypto firm to Trump portfolio On Monday, the Trumps’ World Liberty Financial (WLFI-USD) appeared on major crypto exchanges. The price briefly jumped and then dropped, a pattern typical for small-cap tokens. As of Wednesday, the token had fallen around 5%, yet still held the position of the 27th largest cryptocurrency by market cap, based on rankings from CoinMarketCap. The token’s website lists Donald Trump, Eric, Don Jr., and Barron Trump as initial co-founders, though Trump has allegedly stepped down from any active role after assuming office again. Back at Nasdaq, Asher Genoot, who chairs American Bitcoin and also serves as CEO of Hut 8, laid out the business model behind the listing: “By combining Bitcoin mining, opportunistic market purchases, and the backing of Hut 8’s energy and digital infrastructure, we have created a vehicle designed to drive rapid, efficient Bitcoin-per-share growth.” Bitcoin itself surged to $111,500 during the day, continuing a 19% increase since the start of the year. Over the last two months, it has bounced between $108,000 and $123,000, tracking broader capital flows into crypto as new institutional and retail interest builds. American Bitcoin is now positioned at the center of a growing web of Trump-backed digital ventures. From the WLFI token to the TRUMP meme coin and product lines tied to Trump Media and Technology Group (DJT), the family’s crypto involvement has expanded rapidly. With both public and private plays, it now cuts across nearly every part of the space; from tokens to public equities. When asked about his role in the expanding crypto push, Eric Trump described it as personal. “Crypto is probably the most rewarding venture of my entire life,” he said last week ahead of the Bitcoin Asia conference in Hong Kong. Don’t just read crypto news. Understand it. Subscribe to our newsletter. It's free .

3 Sept 2025, 18:31

Bitcoin-Linked ABTC Could See Continued Volatility After Five NYSE Trading Halts

ABTC trading halted five times on Nasdaq during its relisting debut after shares surged roughly 85% intraday following American Bitcoin’s merger with Gryphon Digital Mining; trading later resumed with shares

3 Sept 2025, 18:19

Wall Street Loves Bitcoin ETFs, But the Network Is Struggling to Keep Up

Bitcoin’s strong performance this year has been largely driven by surging demand through ETFs and Digital Asset Treasuries (DATs), but this price momentum masks a more concerning trend. In fact, data suggest that network activity has not kept pace with demand for the asset. This divergence creates an opaque outlook for Bitcoin’s long-term health, particularly as transaction fees, the critical incentive to reward miners for securing the network, remain low. “Digital Gold” Narrative Could Backfire Similar to how a company’s revenue drives value to its share price, fees are expected to drive value for Bitcoin’s price. With the fourth halving in April 2024, cutting block rewards, fees today account for less than 1% of miner revenues. CoinMetrics said that this has left miners increasingly reliant on BTC price appreciation. If fees do not rise to compensate for declining issuance, many miners could be forced offline after prolonged drawdowns. This, in turn, would end up jeopardizing the network’s decentralization and censorship-resistance. The centralization of hashpower already looms large, with Foundry commanding 30% of total hashpower and Antpool 18%. While mining pools continue to invest heavily in hardware to maintain dominance, individual miners struggle with profitability, often liquidating their BTC holdings to cover operational costs. The long-term challenge becomes clearer when considering the 2028 halving, which will reduce block rewards to just 1.5625 BTC. Without higher fee revenue, the risk of miner attrition will rise, and potentially concentrate security into fewer operators. This structural challenge is compounded by weak demand for blockspace. Because there isn’t much demand for Bitcoin’s blockspace, transaction fees stay low. This makes it easier and cheaper for everyday users to send money on the network. However, the demand for Bitcoin as an asset, especially from large institutional investors, doesn’t translate into more transactions happening on the blockchain itself. Instead, these investors mainly treat Bitcoin as “digital gold” or a long-term store of value. Institutional investors buying ETFs and DATs contribute to price but not to on-chain activity, leaving miners without the fee-based incentives needed for long-term security. To address this imbalance, developers are experimenting with native BTC applications that could restore fee revenue to miners instead of offshoring activity to other chains. Projects like Babylon Genesis Chain, which allows BTC holders to stake with operators securing external proof-of-stake networks, point to how Bitcoin could expand its role beyond passive value storage. Babylon’s launch in August 2024 temporarily drove fees above $150 per block and sparked demand for blockspace. However, these spikes have proven short-lived, and fee revenue remains low. Base Layer Starves The tokenization trend, too, reveals the risks of activity migrating elsewhere: while Coinbase’s cbBTC has grown rapidly to over 52,000 BTC in supply, largely at the expense of BitGo’s wBTC, much of this demand occurs outside the Bitcoin base layer. This also generates little fee income for miners. For Bitcoin to sustain its “lofty” valuation, CoinMetrics believes that the ecosystem must find ways to stimulate more consistent network activity and create new demand for blockspace and reward miners for their role in securing the chain. The post Wall Street Loves Bitcoin ETFs, But the Network Is Struggling to Keep Up appeared first on CryptoPotato .

3 Sept 2025, 17:50

US Semiconductor Manufacturing: The Bold Government Move to Secure Intel’s Future

BitcoinWorld US Semiconductor Manufacturing: The Bold Government Move to Secure Intel’s Future In the fast-evolving world of cryptocurrency and blockchain, the underlying infrastructure relies heavily on cutting-edge technology, particularly high-performance semiconductors. These chips power everything from mining operations to secure data processing. Imagine a scenario where the very supply chain for these critical components becomes a matter of national security. This is precisely the landscape the United States government is navigating, as it takes an unprecedented Intel equity stake to reshape the future of US semiconductor manufacturing and secure its position in the global tech race. Unpacking the US Government’s Strategic Intel Equity Stake The Trump administration recently took a significant step by converting an existing government grant into a 10% equity stake in Intel. This bold move is a direct response to the administration’s ambition for the United States to be the undisputed leader in artificial intelligence (AI). To achieve this, a core strategy involves bringing semiconductor manufacturing back to American soil, thereby strengthening the domestic supply chain and reducing reliance on overseas production. The deal’s structure is particularly intriguing: the U.S. government stands to gain additional equity in Intel if the company’s ownership of its foundry business—which manufactures custom chips for international customers—drops below 50% within the next five years. This condition underscores the government’s commitment not just to investment, but to maintaining a strong domestic manufacturing base within Intel. This strategic Intel equity stake is not merely a financial transaction; it represents a deep alignment of national security interests with corporate strategy. The government’s decision to become a part-owner, rather than just a grantor, signals a long-term commitment to Intel’s success as a cornerstone of American technological independence. It’s a clear message to the world that the U.S. is serious about controlling its technological destiny, especially in areas critical to future innovations like AI. The CHIPS Act and the Drive for Domestic Semiconductor Manufacturing The foundation for this significant government investment was laid by the 2022 CHIPS Act , a bipartisan legislative effort designed to boost domestic semiconductor research, development, and manufacturing. This act allocated billions of dollars in federal grants, loans, and incentives to companies willing to build or expand chip fabrication plants in the U.S. The goal was clear: to reverse decades of offshoring and secure the supply chain for these vital components, which are essential for everything from consumer electronics to advanced military systems. Intel, being a prominent U.S.-based semiconductor company, was a natural recipient of this funding. In November 2024, the company secured a substantial $7.86 billion in federal grants through the CHIPS Act . This funding was intended to support Intel’s ambitious plans to expand its domestic manufacturing capabilities, including the construction of new fabrication plants. The conversion of a portion of this grant into an equity stake demonstrates a shift in the government’s approach, moving beyond simple financial aid to a more direct, vested interest in the success and strategic direction of key American tech firms. This deepens the commitment to US semiconductor manufacturing beyond just subsidies, aiming for shared risk and reward. Intel’s Journey: From Foundry Ambitions to Government Investment Intel’s path to this unprecedented government investment has been complex, marked by both ambitious initiatives and significant challenges. Let’s look at a brief timeline: March 2021: Intel launched its foundry business, Intel Foundry, with a commitment to invest $20 billion in building two new chip manufacturing plants in Arizona. This marked a renewed push into custom chip manufacturing. A Year Later (2022): Intel announced its intent to acquire Tower Semiconductor, a key player in the custom foundry industry, for $5.4 billion. This move was aimed at bolstering its foundry capabilities and customer base. August 2023: The acquisition of Tower Semiconductor was canceled due to regulatory troubles, a setback for Intel’s foundry expansion plans. Post-Cancellation: Intel Foundry struggled to gain momentum, facing rumors of difficulty in securing large international customers. 2024: Then-CEO Pat Gelsinger announced plans to transition Intel Foundry into an independent subsidiary, amidst calls from board members to spin the unit out entirely, as the company grappled with slowing growth, cost cuts, and massive layoffs. December 2024: Pat Gelsinger suddenly retired, leading to a leadership vacuum during a critical period for the company. Early March 2025: Lip-Bu Tan, a former board member, rejoined Intel as CEO. He immediately set to work on a turnaround plan, focusing on shedding non-core units, trimming the workforce, and refocusing the company’s strategy. July 2025: Intel scaled back some of its manufacturing projects, including the already-delayed $28 billion fabrication plant in Ohio, signaling ongoing challenges in its capital-intensive expansion plans. It was against this backdrop of strategic shifts, leadership changes, and financial pressures that the U.S. government, through its government investment , stepped in. The equity stake effectively solidifies Intel’s financial standing for its domestic manufacturing projects, ensuring that the CHIPS Act grants translate into tangible, long-term capabilities for US semiconductor manufacturing . Geopolitical Tensions and the Quest for AI Dominance The context surrounding the Intel equity stake is deeply intertwined with geopolitical tensions, particularly the rivalry between the U.S. and China over technological supremacy. The Trump administration’s focus on AI dominance is not just about economic leadership; it’s a matter of national security. Advanced AI capabilities rely heavily on cutting-edge semiconductors, and controlling their production is seen as paramount. The appointment of Lip-Bu Tan as CEO brought these geopolitical concerns to the forefront. In early August 2025, Republican Senator Tom Cotton raised questions about Tan’s ties to China, specifically his past leadership at Cadence Design Systems, a company that had faced charges for violating U.S. export controls to China and reportedly sold technology to a Chinese military school. The very next day, President Trump publicly demanded Tan’s resignation, accusing him of being “highly conflicted.” This intense scrutiny highlights the sensitive nature of the semiconductor industry in the current global climate. Tan’s subsequent meeting with Trump in Washington D.C. to discuss collaboration on reshoring semiconductor manufacturing was a critical turning point. The U.S. government’s demand for greater control and oversight, culminating in the equity deal, underscores its determination to safeguard its technological future and prevent any potential vulnerabilities that could impede its quest for AI dominance . This proactive approach aims to ensure that critical technology remains firmly within U.S. influence. What Does This Government Investment Mean for Intel and the Future of US Tech? The U.S. government’s Intel equity stake is a multifaceted development with significant implications for both the company and the broader landscape of US semiconductor manufacturing . For Intel, the immediate benefit is the securing of its previously awarded CHIPS Act grant money, providing much-needed capital for its domestic fabrication plants. This financial stability is crucial as Intel navigates its turnaround plan and aims to make its foundry business profitable and competitive. However, the nature of the government’s involvement as a “passive investor” that will “vote alongside Intel’s interests” raises questions. While this might suggest minimal interference, the conditional equity stake—which increases if Intel’s foundry ownership drops—indicates a clear strategic interest in preventing the spin-off or sale of its domestic manufacturing assets. This could limit Intel’s strategic flexibility in the future, even if it provides a safety net now. The deal transforms a simple grant into a more complex partnership, where the government has a direct, albeit initially passive, say in Intel’s long-term direction regarding its foundry operations. For the future of US semiconductor manufacturing , this move sets a powerful precedent. It signals a willingness by the government to employ direct ownership stakes in strategically vital industries, moving beyond traditional subsidies. This could lead to similar arrangements with other key technology companies, further intertwining national economic and security goals with corporate strategy. The ultimate aim is to build a resilient, domestically controlled semiconductor supply chain that underpins America’s aspirations for AI dominance and technological leadership in the coming decades. The path ahead for Intel and the U.S. government’s ambitious plan for AI supremacy remains to be fully charted. This strategic Intel equity stake represents a critical juncture, blending public policy with private enterprise in an effort to secure a vital technological future. It’s a testament to the increasing recognition that semiconductor manufacturing is not just an industry, but a cornerstone of national power and economic resilience in the 21st century. To learn more about the latest AI market trends, explore our article on key developments shaping AI features and institutional adoption. This post US Semiconductor Manufacturing: The Bold Government Move to Secure Intel’s Future first appeared on BitcoinWorld and is written by Editorial Team

3 Sept 2025, 16:23

Trump-backed American Bitcoin (ABTC) makes Nasdaq debut

American Bitcoin, the cryptocurrency mining venture backed by Eric Trump and Donald Trump Jr., has made its highly anticipated debut on the Nasdaq under the ticker ABTC. The listing comes amid a surge of interest in digital assets and coincides with the Trump family’s broader expansion into the cryptocurrency ecosystem. American Bitcoin’s Nasdaq debut sparks investor excitement The Trump-backed firm saw its shares jump more than 50% to a high of $14.00 immediately after opening on the Nasdaq, reflecting strong investor demand. Although the stock price has pulled back to around $9.45, it is still 36.96% higher than its listing price. American Bitcoin (ABTC) stock price | Source: Yahoo Finance The formation of American Bitcoin followed several mergers, beginning with a partnership with Hut 8 in March of this year. Hut 8 contributed its Bitcoin mining division in exchange for an 80% ownership stake in the new venture. This strategic alignment allowed American Bitcoin to combine mining operations with a treasury-focused approach, strengthening its foothold in the cryptocurrency market. In June, American Bitcoin raised $220 million in a combination of cash and Bitcoin from investors, including prominent figures such as the Winklevoss twins, Cameron and Tyler. The funds were deployed to acquire additional Bitcoin and mining infrastructure, reinforcing the company’s long-term strategy of scaling both its treasury holdings and production capabilities. The company also completed a merger with Gryphon Digital Mining last week, which allowed Gryphon shareholders to take a small stake in the newly listed entity while giving the Trump brothers and their partners nearly complete control over the company. Eric Trump and Donald Trump Jr., alongside cryptocurrency miner Hut 8 and other stakeholders, now hold approximately 98% of American Bitcoin. American Bitcoin’s balance sheet shows that it currently holds around 2,443 Bitcoin, adopting a corporate treasury strategy modelled after industry leaders like Michael Saylor’s MicroStrategy. The company aims to gradually increase its holdings, with ambitions to become one of the largest corporate Bitcoin treasuries in the world. The expanding Trump crypto empire The Nasdaq listing comes as part of a broader push by the Trump family into the cryptocurrency space. Alongside American Bitcoin, the family’s ventures include World Liberty Financial, which recently launched its WLFI token, and a stablecoin named USD1. The Trump family also promotes a meme coin, TRUMP Coin, highlighting their interest in leveraging crypto for both financial growth and public engagement. Donald Trump Jr. has emphasised that these ventures provide an alternative to traditional banking, citing experiences of “debanking” that the family encountered. Through these initiatives, the Trump family aims to offer decentralised financial services to a wider audience while also establishing itself as a significant player in the digital asset ecosystem. The post Trump-backed American Bitcoin (ABTC) makes Nasdaq debut appeared first on Invezz

3 Sept 2025, 16:09

Trump Bros’ American Bitcoin Mining Stock Soars, Then Plunges During Public Debut

Donald Trump Jr. and Eric Trump's American Bitcoin seeks to operate as both a publicly traded treasury firm and an active mining operation.