Payam Javan: President Donald Trump has signed an executive order to create the first-ever U.S. sovereign wealth fund, aiming to generate long-term financial growth for the nation. The fund, modeled after those in countries like Norway and Saudi Arabia, is expected to channel government investments into key industries, including infrastructure and medical research. The executive order mandates the Treasury and Commerce Departments to develop a strategic plan within 90 days, outlining funding sources, governance policies, and investment priorities. While exact capitalization details remain uncertain, one proposed revenue source includes tariff proceeds. Trump emphasized that the initiative seeks to enhance fiscal sustainability while reducing the tax burden on American families and small businesses.

In a notable development, Trump suggested that the newly established fund could play a role in acquiring the social media giant TikTok. The platform, owned by Chinese tech firm ByteDance, has been under scrutiny due to national security concerns, prompting calls for its sale to a U.S. entity. Trump has previously expressed interest in securing a 50% U.S. stake in TikTok, a move that could now be facilitated through the sovereign wealth fund. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick have been assigned to oversee the fund’s development, aiming to maximize national assets for the American people while bolstering economic influence.