YouTube’s biggest star Is building a crypto empire

James “MrBeast” Donaldson, the internet sensation known for his viral philanthropy and high-stakes stunts, has filed a trademark for MrBeast Financial, a proposed crypto exchange and payments app that could push his brand into the world of digital finance.

The filing, made by his parent company Beast Holdings, describes a downloadable app offering cryptocurrency exchange, payment processing, banking, insurance, and even decentralized exchange (DEX) services. It also mentions investment banking, financial education, and microfinance — an unusually broad scope for a celebrity-driven venture.

If launched, MrBeast Financial could mark one of the most ambitious creator-led forays into crypto, positioning Donaldson at the intersection of fintech, blockchain, and entertainment. But before that happens, a long list of regulatory hurdles stands in his way.

But to pass the regulatory phase and operate legally in the United States, MrBeast would need to register as a Money Services Business with FinCEN, obtain state-level money transmitter licenses, and possibly secure approvals from the SEC or CFTC, depending on the platform’s design. So far, no such filings have been made. MrBeast Holdings has not yet responded to media requests for comment.

From YouTube Challenges to Financial Frontiers

With over 446 million subscribers, MrBeast is the most-followed individual creator on YouTube, famous for projects that blend generosity with spectacle — from giving away private islands and Teslas to recreating Squid Game with real contestants.

But this move shows a different side of the YouTuber — one interested in transforming his global fanbase into an economic ecosystem. MrBeast has dabbled in crypto before, investing in blockchain startups and buying high-profile NFTs, including eight CryptoPunks during the last bull run. His public wallets have been tracked by on-chain analysts ever since, often sparking speculation about his next crypto move.

The crypto venture would join a growing portfolio of 52 trademarks registered by his company, ranging from MrBeast Burger and Feastables to Beast Games and MrBeast Philanthropy. Some have become global brands — like his viral snack company Feastables — while others remain dormant, potentially filed as defensive trademarks to protect the MrBeast name from imitators.

The MrBeast Burger brand started as a ghost kitchen concept before expanding into a physical store at the American Dream Mall in New Jersey. Feastables, meanwhile, drew both praise and controversy when Donaldson encouraged fans to tidy up chocolate displays for a $5,000 reward — a publicity stunt that kept him trending for days.

The Creator Economy Meets Crypto Regulation

MrBeast’s trademark move reflects a broader trend among influencers seeking to bridge content creation and fintech innovation. But unlike promoting merch or launching a mobile game, entering the world of crypto finance means navigating some of the toughest compliance terrain in the U.S.

In an era where celebrities like Kim Kardashian and Floyd Mayweather have faced fines for unregistered crypto promotions, regulators are increasingly vigilant. Should MrBeast decide to turn his filing into a real product, he would be entering one of the most heavily scrutinized corners of the financial world.

Still, given his track record of turning big ideas into reality — and bigger headlines — few would bet against him trying.