According to Cointelegraph, recent posts from Donald Trump's official social media accounts promoting a new Solana-based memecoin have raised suspicions among industry participants. The posts, which appeared just days before Trump's presidential inauguration on January 20, have led to questions about whether his accounts were compromised.
In a post dated January 18, Trump announced, "My NEW Official Trump Meme is HERE! It’s time to celebrate everything we stand for: WINNING! Join my very special Trump Community. GET YOUR TRUMP NOW." This announcement was also shared on Trump's Truth Social account. The Official Trump (TRUMP) memecoin was trading at $8.41 with a market cap of $8.3 billion just three hours after its creation, as reported by memecoin trading platform Moonshot.
Max Schwartman, founder and CEO of BecauseBitcoin, expressed concerns on January 18, suggesting that if Trump's account was indeed hacked, it could dampen his positive stance on cryptocurrency as he assumes office. However, if the posts are genuine, Schwartman anticipates significant market volatility in the coming quarter.
Crypto commentator JRNY Crypto voiced skepticism, noting that Trump would likely have produced a video if the posts were authentic. Similarly, crypto trader Edward Morra predicted negative outcomes, suggesting the situation could lead to a general market sell-off as the inauguration approaches.
Despite some believing the posts to be legitimate, many remain cautious. Crypto commentator "Daniel Got Hits" shared with his 61,900 followers that he has a "gut feeling" the posts are real but stated he would not engage with the token, saying, "I’m not touching this thing with a ten-foot pole."
Crypto analyst Will Clemente observed unusual market activity, noting Solana's price surge of 4.12% to $228 following the memecoin's launch. Clemente remarked on the chaos, highlighting the panic selling and buying frenzy surrounding Trump's memecoin.
These developments come as Trump is reportedly expected to prioritize cryptocurrency through an executive order upon re-entering office. The situation continues to unfold as the inauguration date approaches.