Apple Acquires Rights to Book on FTX Founder Sam Bankman-Fried
Apple has reportedly purchased the rights to a book called “Going Infinite: The Rise and Fall of a New Tycoon” written by Michael Lewis, which centers around Sam Bankman-Fried (SBF), the founder of the bankrupt crypto exchange FTX. The tech giant paid $5 million for the rights to the book. Lewis spent 12 months with SBF and witnessed his rise and downfall in real time.
Hollywood Projects Based on SBF
Besides Lewis’ book, there are reportedly eight projects in Hollywood based on SBF, including a profile documentary by Nanette Burstein. Amazon also approved a limited series about the FTX crash. However, these projects may face delays due to the 2023 Writers Guild of America strike.
SBF’s Troubled Journey
Once a prominent figure in the crypto industry, SBF resigned as FTX’s CEO following an $8 billion collapse at the company. He is facing charges of fraud and other crimes by US prosecutors, and the bankrupt company has sued him and former executives for $1 billion. While Bankman-Fried denies the allegations, four former executives have pleaded guilty. His trial is set to begin on Oct. 3, the same day Lewis plans to release his book.
Hot Take
Apple’s acquisition of the rights to the book suggests a growing interest in crypto-related stories within mainstream media. The rise and fall of Sam Bankman-Fried and FTX serve as cautionary tales in the volatile world of cryptocurrencies, providing valuable insights for investors and industry observers.