27-6-2025 – Aqua 1, a Web3 investment outfit hailing from the UAE, has channelled $100 million into World Liberty Financial (WLFI), a decentralised finance (DeFi) protocol with connections to the Trump family. This strategic investment has positioned Aqua 1 as the largest token holder in WLFI, marking a significant milestone in the realm of blockchain-driven finance.
Strategic focus on tokenisation, stablecoins, and RWAs
The partnership, according to Aqua 1’s recent statement, seeks to revolutionise the global financial landscape by harnessing the power of blockchain technology. The focus lies in tokenizing real-world assets (RWA), integrating stablecoins, and fostering innovation to create a robust, decentralised financial ecosystem. Aqua 1 envisions this collaboration as a pivotal step toward bridging traditional finance with the burgeoning world of DeFi, crafting an institutional-grade marketplace that democratises access to conventional assets.
Zak Folkman, co-founder of WLFI, hailed the alliance as a testament to their shared vision of propelling digital assets into the mainstream. “This partnership with Aqua 1 underscores our commitment to reshaping global finance and cementing our nation’s leadership in cryptocurrency and blockchain innovation,” Folkman declared, emphasising the transformative potential of their joint endeavour.
Aqua fund to supercharge Middle East’s digital economy
The collaboration extends beyond WLFI’s core operations. Aqua 1 is launching the Aqua Fund, a UAE-based initiative designed to catalyse the Middle East’s digital economy. This fund will prioritise blockchain infrastructure, artificial intelligence integration, and the global adoption of Web3 technologies, aiming to establish the region as a frontrunner in the next wave of digital innovation by attracting investment, expertise, and cutting-edge technology.
Political controversy and calls for transparency
However, WLFI’s ties to the Trump family have cast a shadow over the project, igniting debates about potential conflicts of interest given their prominent roles in both political and cryptocurrency spheres. Recent congressional discussions have further spotlighted WLFI, with lawmakers raising concerns about foreign influence and the pressing need for greater transparency within digital asset markets.
Adding to the scrutiny is the involvement of Justin Sun, the founder of Tron and a major financial backer of WLFI. Sun’s investments, totalling $30 million in November 2024 and an additional $45 million in early 2025, have made him a key figure in the project. His role as an advisory board member and former largest token holder—coupled with his attendance at a high-profile meme coin dinner hosted by President Donald Trump in May—has intensified questions about foreign influence in U.S.-based cryptocurrency ventures.
