The SEC’s Case Against Kraken Sparks Heated Debate Among Crypto Community
The recent lawsuit filed by the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) against Kraken, a prominent crypto exchange, has ignited a firestorm of debate within the crypto space. The suit, filed on Nov. 20, alleges that Kraken has been operating as an unregistered exchange, broker, dealer, and clearing agency, and accuses the platform of commingling customer assets with its own.
Kraken founder Jesse Powell did not mince words in expressing his discontent with the SEC’s action, characterizing it as an “assault on America.” In a tweet, Powell warned other companies to consider leaving the country. This sentiment was echoed by Dave Ripley, the current CEO of Kraken, who stated that the company “strongly disagrees” with the SEC’s claims and intends to vigorously defend its position.
Despite facing this legal battle, Kraken remains resolute in standing up for the crypto industry’s right to operate within the U.S. In response to the SEC’s allegations, Ripley emphasized that the industry is in need of regulatory clarity, which can only be achieved through Congressional action. He affirmed that Kraken will continue to support efforts aimed at bringing clarity and certainty to the current regulatory environment.
Prominent crypto lawyer John Deaton also weighed in on the situation, launching a scathing attack on SEC Chair Gary Gensler, whom he referred to as a “despicable and dishonorable regulator.” Deaton further commented on Kraken’s previous settlement with the SEC, in which the company agreed to pay $30 million.
Amidst the legal battle, questions have arisen regarding Kraken’s chances of success in court against the SEC. Carlo D’Angelo, a criminal defense lawyer specializing in crypto, expressed doubt about the SEC’s likelihood of prevailing in court, citing previous legal precedents that may work in Kraken’s favor.
Criticism of the SEC’s crackdown on crypto has emerged, particularly in light of the industry’s lack of clear legislative guidance. U.S. Senator Cynthia Lummis called out the SEC for “ruling by enforcement” and highlighted the industry’s repeated attempts to seek guidance from the agency. This sentiment was echoed by U.S. Representative Tom Emmer, who has proposed defunding the SEC’s aggressive stance against crypto.
As the legal battle unfolds, it has become clear that the SEC’s actions against Kraken have ignited a fierce debate within the crypto community, with advocates and critics alike passionately expressing their views on the regulatory landscape.
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About the author - J-S Tremblay
I've been involved in the cryptocurrency world since 2016 and trading since 2019. I started Moon and Lambo in 2021. I'm passionate about crypto and love to share my knowledge. I hate bankers and I hope that cryptocurrency will change the financial world for the better. View full profile...
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