As guests filed into the event and President Trump arrived by Marine One helicopter, more than a hundred protesters at the Trump National Golf Club crowded along the edge of the parking lot along the street.

Signs included, "America is not for sale," "Stop crypto corruption," and "Release the guest list."

In a video posted on social media by a meme coin contest dinner guest, Trump told the crowd, "I always put the country way ahead of the business...You become president of the United States, and you want to see people thrive and succeed. The Biden Administration persecuted crypto innovators and we're bringing them back into the USA where they belong."

Investors spent an estimated $148 million on the $TRUMP meme coin to secure their seats at the dinner, with the top 25 holders spending more than $111 million, according to crypto intelligence firm Inca Digital.

These top holders enjoyed a private VIP reception with Trump, and the four largest investors also received a limited edition of the Trump Tourbillon watch that sells for $100,000.

With Reuters.