Erbil Karaman, Co-Founder of Huma Finance, described the atmosphere of the much-anticipated $148 million dinner with US President Donald Trump as “charged and eventful.”
Most of the 220 attendees were “predominantly Asian,” while the food quality was “disappointing.” Despite this last detail, if he had the opportunity to do it all again, Karaman would “absolutely” do so.
Once-in-a-Lifetime Opportunity
As head of the cross-border payment financing platform Huma Finance, Karaman decided to acquire as many Trump tokens as needed to make the leaderboard and travel to the East Coast to see President Trump up close and personally.
Karaman’s main motivator was frustration over regulatory stagnation around stablecoins. For him, this dinner highlighted “a critical moment where American leadership in financial technology hangs in the balance.”
This is what he had to say about his experience.
What was the preparation process?
I received a confirmation email on May 13 with details about the event, followed by a request to submit basic information for a security background check.
After completing the form, I received a call confirming attendance and checking whether I needed any accommodations. The entire process was smooth, professional, and thoughtfully handled.
Were any arrangements made for holders who wanted to stay completely anonymous?
Yes — a third-party service handled the security background checks, and we were assured that our information would remain confidential.
Only minimal details were requested. ID was required upon entry, but no one was asked to disclose their identity publicly. No professional camera equipment was allowed, and most attendees were respectful about privacy when taking photos or videos.
How was the atmosphere at the Trump crypto dinner?
The atmosphere was charged and eventful. Approximately 30 protesters gathered outside the venue, and security was extremely tight.
No vehicles were allowed inside; guests had to exit their cars in front of the protesters and were escorted through multiple security checkpoints before entering the clubhouse.
What were the highlights besides the President’s appearance?
Guests arrived early to secure tables near the stage, with each seat provided a gift bag containing Fight Fight Fight-themed hats, posters, and collectible cards.
The crowd of around 200 attendees was international, predominantly Asian, and included founders of leading crypto projects, investors, and influencers.
Following Trump’s speech, Justin Sun, who is the largest holder of Trump coins, took the stage, engaging the audience and introducing the Trump watch, which was gifted to the top four Trump coin holders.
Can you share any personal insights or experiences from the event?
The overall mood was optimistic, with attendees eager to hear Trump’s vision for US leadership in crypto innovation and regulation. Trump arrived by helicopter and delivered a 25-minute speech reaffirming his commitment to advancing the industry.
His lighthearted dance to the YMCA after the speech energized the crowd. On a side note, the food quality was disappointing, though Trump-branded wine was served.
Who were some of the most notable guests, besides Justin Sun?
Only a few recognizable celebrities were there, other than Justin Sun. Lamar Odom was the most recognizable as the tallest guy in the room.
Many prominent crypto founders from around the world were also in attendance, along with a diverse mix of investors.
Why did Justin Sun make a speech? What was it about?
Justin, as the #1 holder of $TRUMP meme coins, was invited to speak as an honorary guest. He expressed excitement about attending the event in D.C. alongside some of the strongest supporters of the crypto movement, including President Trump.
The Tron founder mentioned that this moment was something he never thought possible without Trump’s influence. He called on the international crypto community to unite behind Trump and his policies, emphasizing his continued personal support through the remainder of Trump’s presidency.
During the event, Justin was also presented with a collectible Trump watch on stage.
How long did the dinner last?
Doors opened at 5:30 p.m., dinner was served around 7:00 p.m., and President Trump delivered his remarks around 7:45 p.m. for about 25 minutes. The program wrapped up around 10:00 p.m., followed by an informal afterparty for additional networking.
Was there disappointment over Trump’s brief appearance?
The opportunity to attend and hear directly from President Trump about his vision for US leadership in crypto was valuable in itself.
Did you expect to speak with Trump personally before attending?
No, I didn’t have that expectation. With more than 200 guests in attendance, I understood it wouldn’t be feasible.
Was it a good networking opportunity?
Yes. I connected with crypto founders and investors from around the world, and even reconnected with some of Huma’s investors. Many of our global partners attended and were keen to better understand US crypto policy direction.
If you could do it again, would you become a top TRUMP holder to attend?
Absolutely. I believe it was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the enthusiasm of a community looking to the US to lead such an important global financial revolution and to hear from Mr. President firsthand how he plans to support US-led initiatives to set an example globally.
Having spent the past week in Korea during election week, I’ve heard both sides of the political debate discuss how they plan to follow Trump’s pro-crypto policies.
Our partners in Korea specifically mentioned how much they wanted to be at the dinner, as they truly believe such US-led policies could open up global markets, especially during the economic slowdown we are currently facing.
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