Warren Asks Commerce to Explain UAE AI Chip Access After Trump Crypto Deals

The Commerce Department changed the UAE's categorization to Country Group A:5, giving it access to license-free exports of advanced chips. The shift means UAE-based buyers can import advanced chips without seeking individual license approvals. The department also said it would "favorably review" license applications for chips and servers to MGX, the UAE entity that made the $2 billion Binance investment.

CNBC described the letter as part of an ongoing push by Democratic lawmakers to examine whether foreign crypto investments shape US policy. In June, Warren and several other senators called for hearings into the $500 million World Liberty Financial deal. The president's pardon of former Binance CEO Changpeng Zhao has also drawn scrutiny from many lawmakers.

The letter adds to a rough stretch for crypto policy in Washington, where Senate delays have weighed on the CLARITY Act. Commerce did not immediately respond to a request for comment, CNBC said.