Trump Eyes Expansion of “National Policy stock” Strategy Beyond Intel
WASHINGTON D.C. – following a controversial deal granting the Trump administration a stake in Intel,the former president is reportedly seeking to replicate the arrangement across multiple sectors,raising concerns about government influence in private enterprise. beyond the semiconductor industry, artificial intelligence data centers, defense contracting, and steel manufacturing are emerging as potential targets for similar interventions, according to sources familiar with the ongoing discussions.
The strategy, which involves leveraging government approvals for mergers or exports in exchange for equity or veto power, signals a willingness to directly tie U.S.national interests to the performance of key companies. This approach has sparked debate about the appropriate boundaries between public policy and the private sector, with critics warning of potential market distortions and chilling effects on investment. The stakes are high, as these industries are critical to national security, economic competitiveness, and technological advancement.
Lockheed Martin, a major defense contractor, is viewed as particularly vulnerable to this strategy. Sources indicate the company is considered an extension of the U.S. government,dependent on federal contracts for its survival and therefore likely to accept government conditions. Trump has demonstrated a willingness to exert pressure on companies that challenge his policies, famously threatening Walmart with repercussions over tariffs, stating he would “stare” them down.
the administration has already signaled its intent to expand the model. Plans are underway to allow Nvidia to sell H20 chips to China, contingent on the U.S. government receiving 15% of sales – though the agreement remains unfinalized. Furthermore, as part of the recent deal allowing Japan’s Nippon Steel to acquire U.S. Steel, the Trump team secured a “gold stock” granting them a key veto power.
These developments suggest a broader effort to establish “national policy stocks,” where the government actively participates in the upside of strategically important companies. The initiative, first reported by Yahoo Finance, is raising questions about the long-term implications for corporate governance and the role of government in the American economy.
