U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has officially sold his financial stake in a soybean farm, according to newly filed federal ethics disclosures. The divestment was carried out prior to the completion of his confirmation process and was described as a routine step to prevent any appearance of conflicts tied to trade and economic policy.
A Treasury Department spokesperson confirmed that the asset sale was voluntary and aligned with standard ethical safeguards required of senior cabinet officials. The farmland investment had been held through a limited liability company associated with Bessent’s private investment activities.
The disclosure follows increased public scrutiny after Bessent recently referred to himself as a “soybean farmer” during a public appearance. Subsequent reporting clarified that while he held ownership through a business structure, he was not personally involved in planting, harvesting, or daily farming operations. His office later explained that the term was used informally to indicate ownership, not hands-on agricultural work.
The timing of the divestment is notable as soybeans remain a sensitive commodity in ongoing U.S.–China trade discussions. Agricultural exports, particularly farm products, are often at the center of tariff negotiations and supply chain disputes between the two economic powers.
Officials emphasized that the sale of the farm stake is not connected to any investigation or wrongdoing. Instead, it reflects standard compliance practices designed to maintain public trust and minimize even the perception of divided interests.
Ethics experts note that such divestments are common among incoming cabinet members who previously held interests in sectors affected by federal policy. The Treasury Department reiterated that Bessent remains fully compliant with all ethics requirements governing his position.
