Trump's oil and gas stock trades continued during Iran war, filings show

Key Points:

• President Trump's investment accounts have actively bought and sold oil and natural gas stocks worth hundreds of thousands of dollars during the ongoing U.S. war with Iran, according to financial disclosures through mid-2026.
• His holdings in energy stocks increased significantly in value from early 2026 to mid-August, coinciding with key events such as the U.S. operation in Venezuela and the Iran conflict, although these transactions represent a small portion of his estimated $6 billion net worth.
• The White House maintains that Trump's stock portfolio is independently managed by third-party financial institutions using automated model portfolios, and that the president does not influence trading decisions.
• Critics argue that Trump's financial gains from energy stocks during a conflict that raises oil prices present a conflict of interest, while legal experts note that federal officials are currently permitted to trade individual stocks despite ongoing debates about banning the practice.
• Notable transactions include the sale of up to $1 million in ExxonMobil shares on the day Trump declared a ceasefire in the Iran war, highlighting the timing of trades amid geopolitical events.