Gemini Files Lawsuit Over $1.6B GBTC Shares
Gemini Trust Co., a major player in the crypto industry, has initiated a legal battle against Genesis Global Holdco LLC, a financially troubled crypto lender. The lawsuit aims to determine the rightful owner of a substantial batch of shares in the Grayscale Bitcoin Trust (GBTC), which is valued at nearly $1.6 billion.
The Dispute Over GBTC Shares
Gemini Trust Co. has taken Genesis Global Holdco LLC to court amid the lender’s bankruptcy, raising questions about the ownership of approximately 62 million GBTC shares. Gemini’s argument centers around an alleged commitment made by Genesis to use these shares as collateral for loans issued through Gemini’s Earn Program.
Gemini firmly believes that these shares should be used to fulfill promises made to their users. They state, “Today, the Collateral is worth nearly $1.6 billion, an amount that would completely secure and satisfy the claims of every single Earn User.”
Legal Struggles Between Gemini and Genesis
Gemini and Genesis are engaged in a fierce legal battle over an agreement from the now-defunct Gemini Earn Program, where users lent digital assets to Genesis. The collaboration ended earlier this year, and Gemini alleges that Genesis worked against the interests of users and hindered the recovery of digital assets.
Gemini co-founders Tyler and Cameron Winklevoss have also accused Genesis and Digital Currency Group (DCG) CEO Barry Silbert of deceiving investors. In addition to their legal dispute with Gemini, both Genesis and DCG are facing allegations of fraud brought by New York’s Attorney General Letitia James.
Hot Take: Legal Troubles Plague Crypto Giants
Gemini’s legal battle with Genesis highlights the challenges faced by major players in the crypto industry. The lawsuit over the ownership of $1.6 billion worth of GBTC shares reflects the complexities and risks involved in lending and collateral arrangements within the crypto space.
Furthermore, with New York’s Attorney General suing several prominent crypto companies, including Gemini, Genesis, and DCG, for alleged fraud and misleading practices, the industry’s reputation is at stake. These legal struggles emphasize the need for transparency, accountability, and regulatory oversight to protect investors and maintain trust in the crypto ecosystem.