Ryan Salame, Former FTX Executive, Could Lose $1.5 Billion Following Guilty Plea

Ryan Salame, Former FTX Executive, Pleads Guilty to Illegal Campaign Contributions

Ryan Salame, the former co-CEO of FTX Digital Markets, has pleaded guilty to charges of making illegal campaign contributions and fraud. As part of a plea deal, Salame has agreed to forfeit up to $1.5 billion. He admitted to using funds from FTX affiliate Alameda Research to make millions of dollars of illegal donations. Salame also pleaded guilty to operating an unlicensed money transfer business.

Prosecutor Damian Williams stated that Salame’s actions were aimed at advancing the interests of FTX, Alameda Research, and his co-conspirators through an unlawful political influence campaign and an unlicensed money transmitting business. During his plea, Salame acknowledged that he made political contributions using his own name, with the funds originating from an Alameda subsidiary. Salame’s sentencing is scheduled for March 6.

No Cooperation Expected from Salame Against FTX Founder Sam Bankman-Fried

There are no indications that Ryan Salame will cooperate with the prosecution or serve as a witness against FTX founder Sam Bankman-Fried. Following his hearing, Salame was released on a $1 million bond. His attorney, Jason Linder of Mayer Brown, stated that Salame is eager to move past this chapter in his life. Meanwhile, Bankman-Fried’s trial is set to begin next month, as he faces charges of orchestrating a multibillion-dollar fraud that led to the bankruptcy of FTX. Bankman-Fried has pleaded not guilty to all charges.

Hot Take

The guilty plea by Ryan Salame, former FTX executive, highlights the illegal activities surrounding campaign contributions and unlicensed money transfer businesses. This case serves as a reminder of the consequences individuals face when engaging in such actions. It remains to be seen how this development will impact the trial of Sam Bankman-Fried, the founder of FTX, who is also facing significant legal challenges. This case underscores the importance of transparency and adherence to the law within the crypto industry.