A new ruling in a fraud case against former US president Donald Trump could have major implications for his real estate empire. Judge Arthur Engoron ordered the cancellation of business certificates for Trump-related entities, citing persistent fraud in overvaluing properties in New York, Florida, and Scotland. This decision could potentially result in the forced sale of properties, including Trump Tower in Manhattan. Trump’s legal team has vowed to appeal the ruling, claiming that it is an attempt to seize control of private property. The immediate impact and enforcement of the judgment remain unclear, and a bench trial is set to begin next week to address outstanding matters in the case.
The judgment deals a blow to Trump’s reputation and challenges the narrative that he built his real estate empire through business acumen. Legal experts acknowledge that the specifics of the ruling are confusing, but the judge’s findings cast doubt on Trump’s honesty and credibility. The ruling could make it difficult for Trump to obtain bank loans and potentially trigger the cancellation of existing loans, which would have significant financial implications. Moreover, the ruling could also affect Trump’s defense in his four criminal indictments, as it undermines his credibility and could be used against him in court. Despite the negative implications, there is still uncertainty surrounding the enforcement and immediate consequences of the ruling.