Exclusive / Trump advisers weigh structure of AI stakes

Senior Trump administration officials have discussed how to structure potential government equity stakes in major AI companies, according to sources familiar with the discussions. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has proposed taking equity stakes directly in AI firms to seed what he calls 'Trump Accounts,' while Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick has advocated for a sovereign wealth fund structure. The debate reflects growing government interest in capturing value from AI development.

The discussions are at an early stage, with no formal proposal yet. Bessent's 'Trump Accounts' would involve the government acquiring shares in AI companies to fund accounts for individuals, while Lutnick's sovereign wealth fund model would pool government assets for broader investment. Both approaches aim to give the public a share of AI profits, but they differ in structure and branding. The administration has not publicly detailed its plans.

The proposal follows similar ideas from other policymakers, including Sen. The Trump administration's approach appears to favor voluntary equity stakes rather than mandatory taxation. The outcome of the debate could shape how the U.S.