Barry Silbert Predicts Coinbase Listing Will Be ‘Game Changing’ for TAO

DCG founder Silbert spoke about his struggles to buy Bitcoin, comparing it to his current difficulties in acquiring the rising token, TAO.
By Teuta Franjkovic
Genesis dgc

Highlights

  • Silbert believes a Coinbase listing would significantly boost TAO's market presence.
  • Federal authorities are investigating Silbert and DCG amidst fraud allegations by Winklevoss.
  • Genesis's collapse and SEC charges have intensified scrutiny on Silbert and DCG.

Recently, Garry Silbert, the founder and chief executive of DCG, took to Twitter with an early-day reflection on Bitcoin.

He referred to his “pain points” of acquiring Bitcoins back in the day and contrasted that to the “pain points” he is experiencing trying to get his hands on TAO at this point in time, reportedly a well-upcoming token.

Advertisement
Advertisement

Coinbase Listing Will Be ‘Game Changing’ for TAO

The whole thing spurred him into creating Grayscale Bitcoin Trust in 2013 for easy access to Bitcoin. He added that the availability was underpinned by TAO listing on major exchanges like Kraken and Binance, but a listing on Coinbase would be “game-changing in terms of market exposure and liquidity”.

Recently, US investigators were starting to scrutinize a feud between two cryptocurrency billionaires: Gemini Trust Co. co-founder Cameron Winklevoss and Barry Silbert. Winklevoss has been accusing Silbert and his company of fraud, especially concerning the financial dealings between DCG and its subsidiary, Genesis Global Capital.

Not letting denials of any wrongdoing by DCG stand in the way, federal authorities are said to be scrutinizing the matter closely, including the SEC, FBI, and Brooklyn prosecutors.

Advertisement
Advertisement

Genesis Collapse, SEC Charges Intensify Silbert Scrutiny

Winklevoss has talked to investigators about his allegations, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York is reviewing Silbert’s actions. To date, no charges have been filed against Silbert and DCG, but the attention the scandal is getting is unprecedented because of the size and stature of the companies involved. DCG insists its business practices are aboveboard and legal, but it is a tense time nonetheless while the investigation continues.

Genesis was a DCG subsidiary that specialized in cryptocurrency lending. It had partnered with the Winklevoss’s Gemini on a program called Gemini Earn, in which it allowed users of the exchange Gemini to earn as high as 8% interest on their digital assets. The deal proved lucrative for both firms until the mid-2022 collapse of crypto hedge fund Three Arrows Capital left a multi-billion dollar hole in the balance sheet of Genesis. Things got worse after the collapse of FTX the following November.

As the redemption requests mounted, Genesis went on to freeze withdrawals in the second half of 2022 before filing for bankruptcy protection this January. In a related development, the SEC charged Genesis along with Gemini in January with selling unregistered securities through Gemini’s Earn program. Each of the companies, in addition to Gemini’s cofounders Cameron and Tyler Winklevoss, have denied the charges.

Advertisement
Teuta Franjkovic
Teuta is a seasoned writer and editor with over 15 years of expertise in macroeconomics, technology, and the crypto and blockchain sectors. She began her career in 2005 as a lifestyle writer for *Cosmopolitan* before transitioning to business and economic reporting for renowned outlets like *Forbes* and *Bloomberg*. Inspired by thought leaders like Don and Alex Tapscott and Laura Shin, Teuta embraced blockchain's potential, viewing cryptocurrency as one of humanity's most transformative innovations. Since 2014, she has specialized in fintech, focusing on crypto, blockchain, NFTs, and Web3. Known for her strong collaboration and communication skills, Teuta also holds dual MAs in Political Science and Law.
Why trust CoinGape: CoinGape has covered the cryptocurrency industry since 2017, aiming to provide informative insights to our readers. Our journalists and analysts bring years of experience in market analysis and blockchain technology to ensure factual accuracy and balanced reporting. By following our Editorial Policy, our writers verify every source, fact-check each story, rely on reputable sources, and attribute quotes and media correctly. We also follow a rigorous Review Methodology when evaluating exchanges and tools. From emerging blockchain projects and coin launches to industry events and technical developments, we cover all facets of the digital asset space with unwavering commitment to timely, relevant information.
Investment disclaimer: The content reflects the author’s personal views and current market conditions. Please conduct your own research before investing in cryptocurrencies, as neither the author nor the publication is responsible for any financial losses.
Ad Disclosure: This site may feature sponsored content and affiliate links. All advertisements are clearly labeled, and ad partners have no influence over our editorial content.