BlockBeats news, on July 21st, according to decripto report, BlackRock affiliate Austin Private Wealth had shorted 12 million shares of Trump Media Technology Group (DJT.O) stock the day before Trump was assassinated. The report stated that Austin Private Wealth manages around $1 billion in assets, with major shareholders including BlackRock and Vanguard. The coincidence of the timing of the short sale has raised suspicions in the market about insider trading.
Austin Private Wealth explained that due to a technical glitch in their trading system, the short sale order was placed erroneously. The company stated that "the actual size of the order should have been much smaller and targeted different securities."
It is reported that SEC is reviewing internal communications and trading records of Austin Private Wealth to determine if there is any improper conduct. If evidence of illegal activity is found, the investigation could lead to severe penalties.
In previous news, BlackRock issued a statement regarding Thomas Matthew Crookes, who shot Trump: "We strongly condemn any form of political violence and will do our part to promote civility and unity in our nation."