Former President Donald Trump made news recently by revealing unprecedented fortunes from various undertakings. His earnings are largely through a cryptocurrency platform, merchandise and books. The 234-page report, which itemizes his income and debts, provides the deepest dive into his financial dealings so far. Our Digital Producer Lawrence Banton played a crucial role in developing the 80+ page report.
Crypto Venture Yields Millions
Trump’s financial disclosure sheds further light on one particularly remarkable figure—$57 million from World Liberty Financial. This new cryptocurrency platform burst onto the scene last year with their opening. This incredible income marks Trump’s second major foray into the digital asset economy and shows how lucrative these endeavors can be. The disclosure starkly contrasts with former President Joe Biden's 11-page financial report, drawing attention to the scale and diversity of Trump's financial interests.
Merchandise and Book Sales Boost Income
Outside of crypto, former president Trump’s profit margins were juiced by an extensive line of campaign-themed wares, and book sales. He’s made $3 million off his "Save America" coffee table book. This success serves as a reminder of the enormous appetite for products connected to his brand. On top of that, Trump earned $2.8 million from a new line of watches he launched in September, distinctly upping his revenue diversification with each passing year.
The Trump brand financial success quickly spread to other product lines. He pocketed more than $1 million on the production of Trump-branded sneakers, fragrances, “45” guitars and Greenwood Bibles. These numbers of course do not include the visually marketable products bearing his name and likeness. They are key to improving his net worth. He earned upwards of $1 million in non-fungible token (NFT) licensing and royalties.
Liabilities and Ongoing Legal Battles
For all his riches, Trump’s financial disclosure tells you a lot about his continuing liabilities as well. Let’s say you spend $15,000 a year on the American Express credit card. Plus, you’re still paying the mortgages on Trump properties such as Trump Plaza and Trump Tower. These fiscal responsibilities offer a nuanced portrait of Trump’s fiscal landscape, tempering his revenue with his current liability.
Trump is appealing a judgment, further complicating his financial picture. The result of this appeal may be quite determinative for his personal financial situation, going so far as to affect his assets and debts. Her disclosure, unprecedented in its scope and detail, provides much-needed transparency into the financial side of these legal battles.
