Binance Faces Legal Trouble and DOJ Investigations
Binance, the leading cryptocurrency exchange, is currently dealing with legal issues, high-level resignations, and investigations by the United States Department of Justice (DOJ). These problems have caused a decline in the value of Binance’s token, BNB. Some speculate that Binance may be selling Bitcoin from its balance sheet to support its token.
One major concern raised by Deaton is whether Binance will challenge the SEC’s decision to keep important documents private. This issue arose after the SEC faced criticism for sealing documents in the Ripple case. Deaton’s concerns add to the ongoing discussions surrounding the SEC’s handling of the Ripple case.
The Hawk Approach of Regulators and Lawmakers
Deaton points out that regulators and lawmakers are adopting a more aggressive stance towards the cryptocurrency industry. He believes that market participants in the crypto space should expect a prolonged legal battle. According to Deaton, regulators are transitioning from wanting to “kill crypto” to attempting to crush it so that traditional players can enter the market.
“Unfortunately, I think we have to be prepared for a longer fight. We are witnessing them going from ‘We are going to kill crypto’ to ‘No, well, we can’t, so we are going to crush it so that the traditional players can come in and swoop it up,” Deaton stated.
Deaton predicts that the battle over crypto as a policy issue will continue in courts until 2025. After that point, there may be a political consensus on how to approach cryptocurrencies in the United States. If Binance chooses to fight against regulators, it won’t be an easy task.
SEC’s Stance on XRP
Attorney Jeremy Hogan, who also participated in the Twitter discussion, mentioned that the SEC stated it would not appeal the XRP Summary Judgment. This indicates that the question of whether XRP is considered a security is no longer being considered by the SEC.
Hogan emphasizes the need for innovation as more people are leaving the U.S. due to burdensome regulations. Individuals in the crypto industry are seeking an environment where they can freely pursue their ideas and innovations with minimal legal constraints.
Binance.US’s Declining Market Share
Meanwhile, Binance.US has experienced a significant drop in its global market share, falling from 2.39% to 0.6%. Additionally, its current trading volume is lower than it was in early 2020. These factors suggest that Binance.US is facing challenges in maintaining its position in the market.
Hot Take: Uncertain Future for Binance and Crypto Industry
Binance’s legal troubles, senior resignations, and DOJ investigations have raised concerns about its future. The ongoing battle between regulators and the crypto industry indicates a shift in their approach. The SEC’s handling of the Ripple case and its decision to seal important documents have sparked further debate.
The crypto industry should be prepared for a protracted legal battle as regulators aim to crush crypto to make way for traditional players. However, attorney Jeremy Hogan suggests that innovation is crucial, as excessive regulations are driving individuals out of the U.S. The declining market share of Binance.US highlights the challenges faced by crypto exchanges in this regulatory environment.