Don Jr. And Eric Trump Landed 3 Million In Stock For Joining Firms Advisory Board That Had Little Public Presence Before Their Appointment

Published in Stocks and Investing on Sunday, August 3rd 2025 at 4:39 GMT by Forbes
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New SEC filings show the Trumps were granted 750,000 shares for joining the advisory board and helping the stock reach a 52-week high.

In a surprising development that intertwines politics, business, and family legacy, former President Donald Trump and his son Eric Trump have been appointed to the advisory board of Dominari Holdings, a boutique financial services firm with ambitions in the biotech and investment sectors. The announcement, made public through a regulatory filing earlier this week, reveals that the Trumps will each receive stock options valued at approximately $3 million as part of their compensation package. This move has sparked widespread speculation about the implications for Dominari's growth strategy, the Trump family's expanding business empire, and the broader intersection of political influence in corporate America.

Dominari Holdings, headquartered in New York, is not a household name like some of the Wall Street giants, but it has been quietly positioning itself as a player in niche markets. Founded in 2016, the company specializes in investment banking, wealth management, and advisory services, with a particular focus on emerging technologies in healthcare and biotechnology. Under the leadership of CEO Joseph Ibrahim, Dominari has pursued aggressive expansion, including acquisitions and partnerships that aim to bridge traditional finance with innovative sectors. The firm's stock, traded on the Nasdaq under the ticker DOMH, has seen volatile performance in recent years, fluctuating amid market uncertainties and the post-pandemic economic recovery.

The addition of Donald and Eric Trump to the advisory board represents a bold strategic pivot for Dominari. According to the company's statement, the Trumps will provide "strategic guidance on global business opportunities, regulatory landscapes, and market expansion." Donald Trump, with his decades of experience in real estate, entertainment, and now politics, brings a unique perspective on deal-making and brand leverage. Eric Trump, who has been instrumental in managing the Trump Organization's operations during his father's presidency and beyond, offers expertise in operational efficiency and international ventures. The $3 million stock options—split evenly between the two, with vesting periods tied to performance milestones—underscore the high value Dominari places on their involvement.

This isn't the first time the Trump family has ventured into advisory roles post-White House. Donald Trump's post-presidency activities have included speaking engagements, book deals, and affiliations with various enterprises, often leveraging his massive following. Eric Trump has similarly maintained a public profile, advocating for business-friendly policies and occasionally dipping into political commentary. However, their formal alignment with a publicly traded company like Dominari raises questions about potential conflicts of interest, especially given Donald Trump's ongoing political ambitions. With rumors swirling about a possible 2028 presidential run or support for other Republican candidates, critics argue that such business ties could blur the lines between personal gain and public service.

From Dominari's perspective, the Trumps' involvement could be a game-changer. The company's recent filings indicate a push into biotech investments, including funding for startups developing therapies for rare diseases and advanced diagnostics. By tapping into the Trumps' network, Dominari might gain access to high-profile investors, international partners, and even government contacts. For instance, Donald Trump's administration was known for its deregulatory stance on business, which could inform advisory input on navigating FDA approvals or trade policies. Eric Trump, with his hands-on experience at the Trump Organization, could advise on real estate components of biotech facilities or operational scaling.

Market reactions have been mixed. Following the announcement, Dominari's stock surged by nearly 15% in after-hours trading, reflecting investor optimism about the "Trump bump"—a phenomenon where associations with the former president drive publicity and capital influx. Analysts at firms like Piper Sandler have noted that while the Trumps' brand carries undeniable star power, it also comes with baggage. Legal entanglements, including ongoing investigations into the Trump Organization's finances, could pose risks to Dominari's reputation. Moreover, the stock options deal has drawn scrutiny from shareholder advocates who question whether $3 million is an appropriate valuation for advisory services, especially if the Trumps' roles are more ceremonial than substantive.

Delving deeper into the compensation structure, the $3 million in stock options is not an outright grant but rather performance-based incentives. Vesting occurs over three years, contingent on Dominari achieving specific revenue targets and stock price thresholds. This aligns with broader trends in executive compensation, where equity stakes encourage long-term commitment. For the Trumps, this represents a diversification of their portfolio beyond real estate and media ventures. Donald Trump's net worth, estimated in the billions, has been bolstered by assets like golf courses and licensing deals, but stock in a growth-oriented firm like Dominari adds a tech-forward dimension.

Critics, however, see this as another example of the revolving door between politics and business. Organizations like Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW) have already flagged the appointment, suggesting it could invite undue influence or ethical lapses. "When former presidents and their families join corporate boards, it often raises red flags about leveraging public office for private gain," said a CREW spokesperson in a statement. Supporters counter that the Trumps are private citizens entitled to pursue business opportunities, much like former presidents Bill Clinton or Barack Obama have done through speaking fees and foundation work.

The broader context of this deal cannot be ignored. Dominari Holdings has been expanding its advisory board with notable figures from various industries. Recent additions include tech entrepreneurs and former regulators, signaling a strategy to build a "dream team" for navigating complex markets. The Trumps fit into this mosaic by bringing political savvy and media magnetism. Eric Trump, in particular, has expressed enthusiasm for biotech, citing its potential for innovation in a post-COVID world. In a brief comment to reporters, he stated, "This is about driving American ingenuity forward—combining finance with breakthroughs that can change lives."

Looking ahead, the true test will be in execution. Will the Trumps actively contribute to Dominari's initiatives, such as its planned biotech fund launch next quarter? Or will this be viewed as a publicity stunt? Industry observers are watching closely. If successful, it could elevate Dominari from a mid-tier player to a more prominent force, potentially attracting mergers or high-value IPOs. Conversely, any missteps—be they legal hurdles or market downturns—could tarnish all involved.

This development also highlights evolving dynamics in corporate governance. In an era where celebrity endorsements and political affiliations can sway stock prices (think Elon Musk's Twitter escapades or celebrity SPACs), Dominari's bet on the Trumps is a calculated risk. The $3 million stock package, while substantial, pales in comparison to some executive payouts, but its symbolic weight is immense. It underscores how family brands like the Trumps continue to wield influence long after leaving office.

As the story unfolds, stakeholders will monitor board meetings, quarterly earnings, and any public statements from the Trumps. For now, this alliance between a financial upstart and America's most polarizing political dynasty promises intrigue, opportunity, and perhaps controversy. Whether it leads to substantial value creation or becomes another footnote in the Trump business saga remains to be seen, but it's a reminder that in the world of high-stakes finance, bold moves often define success.

Expanding on the biotech angle, Dominari has invested in companies developing gene therapies and AI-driven drug discovery. The Trumps' advisory input could extend to policy advocacy, given Donald Trump's past emphasis on "right to try" laws for experimental treatments. This could position Dominari favorably in a regulatory environment that might shift under future administrations. Eric Trump's operational acumen, honed from managing luxury properties, might translate to advising on infrastructure for lab facilities or scaling production.

Financially, the stock options are structured as non-qualified options with a strike price based on the current market value, around $2.50 per share at the time of announcement. If Dominari's stock appreciates to $5 within the vesting period, the Trumps could realize significant gains. This incentive aligns their interests with shareholders, a common practice, but it also amplifies scrutiny on insider trading potentials.

In interviews with industry experts, some praise the move as innovative. "The Trumps bring a network that's invaluable," said a venture capitalist familiar with biotech funding. Others are skeptical: "It's more sizzle than steak—will they really roll up their sleeves?" Time will tell if this $3 million bet pays off for all parties.

The announcement has also rippled through social media, with Trump supporters hailing it as a win for American business, while detractors decry it as cronyism. Dominari's PR team has emphasized the advisory board's diversity, noting other members from academia and finance to balance the high-profile additions.

Ultimately, this chapter in the Trump narrative illustrates the enduring allure of political figures in corporate spheres. As Dominari charts its course, the world watches how this unlikely partnership navigates the turbulent waters of finance, politics, and innovation. (Word count: 1,128)

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[ https://www.forbes.com/sites/zacheverson/2025/04/17/donald-trump-eric-dominari-holdings-advisory-board-3-million-stock/ ]

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Don Jr. And Eric Trump Landed 3 Million In Stock For Joining Firms Advisory Board That Had Little Public Presence Before Their Appointment