CFTC Bids Against SEC In A New Crypto Fraud Case; Defines Digital Assets As Commodities

US CFTC calls Bitcoin, Ethereum, and USDC commodities in the latest crypto fraud case against ex-Ex-Deutsche Bank investment banker.
By Varinder Singh
Crypto Regulations: US SEC and CFTC to Joins Hands In Trump Administration

The Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) calls Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and USD Coin (USDC) commodities in the latest crypto fraud and misappropriation case. Tug-of-war continues between the U.S. CFTC and U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) concerning which has jurisdiction over cryptocurrencies.

The SEC under Chair Gary Gensler continues its action against the crypto industry claiming that all cryptocurrencies, except Bitcoin, are securities. Meanwhile, CFTC under Rostin Behnam reasserts that some cryptocurrencies including Bitcoin, Ethereum, and stablecoins such as USDC are commodities.

Advertisement
Advertisement

US CFTC Calls Bitcoin, Ethereum, USDC “Commodities”

The Commodity Futures Trading Commission filed a civil enforcement action against former Deutsche Bank investment banker Rashawn Russell in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of New York.

“Certain digital assets, such as bitcoin, ether, and USDC, are encompassed in the definition of a “commodity” under Section 1a(9) of the Act, 7 U.S.C. §1a(9), and contracts for their sale are subject to the prohibitions of Section 6(c)(1) of the Act, 7 U.S.C. § 9(1), and Regulation 180.1, 17 C.F.R. § 180.1 (2022).”

The CFTC charges Russell with digital asset trading fund fraud and misappropriating at least $1 million in investor assets. The CFTC seeks restitution, disgorgement, civil monetary penalties, permanent trading and registration bans against the defendant. As well as, a permanent injunction against further violations of the Commodity Exchange Act (CEA) and other CFTC regulations.

Russel assured at least a 25 percent return on investment (RoI) and falsely promised that he would pay investors in USDC stablecoin. He misappropriated $1 million in investor assets to pay personal expenses, gambling companies, and Ponzi-like payments to current investors.

CFTC Director of Enforcement Ian McGinley asserts that the action proves the CFTC is better at protecting investors and holding bad actors accountable for fraud in the crypto industry.

Recently, CFTC classified cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Litecoin as commodities in a lawsuit filed against Binance.

Also Read: Forget Ethereum (ETH), These Altcoins Gearing Up for Next Rally

Advertisement
Varinder Singh
Varinder has over 10 years of experience and is known as a seasoned leader for his involvement in the fintech sector. With over 5 years dedicated to blockchain, crypto, and Web3 developments, he has experienced two Bitcoin halving events making him key opinion leader in the space. At CoinGape Media, Varinder leads the editorial decisions, spearheading the news team to cover latest updates, markets trends and developments within the crypto industry. The company was recognized as Best Crypto Media Company 2024 for high impact and quality reporting. Being a Master of Technology degree holder, analytics thinker, technology enthusiast, Varinder has shared his knowledge of disruptive technologies in over 5000+ news, articles, and papers.
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.