Prediction markets, pardons spark questions over who's profiting from Trump's presidency

The Pentagon is denying a Financial Times report that Defense Secretary Hegseth's stockbroker sought to make large investments in major defense companies in the days before the U.S. and Israel struck Iran. The allegation raises broader questions about potential financial conflicts of interest among Trump administration officials and their associates, particularly around how insider knowledge of major policy decisions could be exploited for profit. The incident reflects growing scrutiny over prediction markets and presidential pardons—both mechanisms through which people connected to the White House could theoretically benefit financially from administration actions. Hegseth's potential involvement is particularly sensitive given his position overseeing the Defense Department and its major contractors. The controversy underscores tensions between transparency and the personal financial interests of those in or near positions of power.