- Trump Media requests SEC probe into DJT trading.
- DJT shares rise following request.
- Potential implications for market transparency norms.

The Trump Media & Technology Group (TMTG) has taken action by urging the SEC to investigate the stock trading activity surrounding DJT shares. The request follows significant stock movements seen on April 17, 2025.
The suspicions center on Qube Research & Technologies, which holds substantial short positions in DJT stock. TMTG’s memo underscored concerns about market manipulation linked to these activities. As highlighted in a TMTG Official Statement, “The above factors, especially when combined with the history of suspicious trading surrounding DJT stock—including DJT appearing on Nasdaq’s Regulation SHO Threshold Security List continuously for more than two months in 2024—could be indications of the illegal naked short selling of DJT shares.”
Following the announcement, DJT shares experienced a 4% rise, although they are still down about 40% for the year. This reflects the immediate market reaction and the potential for lasting impact.
Financial experts highlight the need for transparency in equities trading, which TMTG also emphasized. These actions could prompt regulatory scrutiny into stock market operations, impacting future trading norms. TMTG asserts, “American equities exchanges should be operated with full transparency and maximum efficiency, not as an opaque free-for-all reminiscent of a third-world casino.”
Historical trends indicate that such investigations can lead to policy reviews or regulatory changes. If confirmed, market manipulation may trigger policy adjustments to enhance equities market integrity and investor protection.