On-chain data shows interaction between BALD and Alameda-linked wallets
Recent data analysis suggests that there may be a connection between the meme coin BALD and the trading company Alameda Research, founded by Sam Bankman-Fried. Several blockchain analysts on Twitter pointed out interactions between BALD’s deployer contract and a wallet tagged as belonging to Alameda. Wintermute’s head of research also tied another wallet address to Alameda, noting the owner’s technical capabilities and involvement in early DeFi projects. However, it is unlikely that Bankman-Fried himself is directly involved.
Rise and fall of BALD
Last weekend, traders rushed to purchase BALD tokens on Coinbase’s new blockchain platform, Base, leading to millions of dollars being invested. However, on Monday, the deployers of BALD abruptly removed liquidity from the token’s trading pairs, causing prices to plummet and leaving many holders in a difficult position. Interestingly, this happened even though Base is not officially open to the public yet.
Unlikely involvement of Bankman-Fried
While the on-chain evidence suggests a connection between Alameda and BALD, it is unlikely that Sam Bankman-Fried, the founder of FTX, is directly involved. Bankman-Fried’s internet access is heavily restricted due to bail conditions, making it unlikely for him to be behind the rug-pulling of BALD.