Crypto Communication Crisis: FINRA Finds Majority of Claims Misleading

FINRA flags 70% of crypto communications for fairness violations, emphasizing transparency and investor protection.
Chainalysis Bags Dismissal In $80M Employment Contract Breach Lawsuit

The Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) has identified a troubling pattern in the crypto communications of its member firms. An intensive examination found that 70% of these communications might infringe upon the established norms of fairness and balance mandated by the regulatory body.

The sweep, initiated in November, scrutinized 500 retail communications, uncovering potential violations. These included, consequently, unfounded claims equating cryptocurrency to cash or cash equivalents, inappropriate comparisons to traditional assets like stocks, and misleading statements regarding the applicability of federal securities laws or FINRA rules to cryptocurrencies.

Advertisement
Advertisement

Miscommunication Leading to Misrepresentation

FINRA’s findings point to a concerning trend in the crypto sector where communications often blur the lines between fact and fiction. Ira Gluck, senior director in FINRA’s advertising regulation department, emphasized clarity in crypto asset communication.

Moreover, he stated that for investors to make informed decisions, communications must transparently outline the risks and features of crypto investments.

The regulatory watchdog concurrently extends its scrutiny beyond traditional media, encompassing diverse platforms ranging from 90-minute podcasts to brief Super Bowl advertisements. This wide-ranging review underscores FINRA’s commitment to ensuring that firms maintain a high standard of honesty and transparency in all forms of public communication.

Advertisement
Advertisement

Escalating Regulatory Focus Amidst Rapid Crypto Expansion

Regulatory agencies, in addition, including the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Commodity Futures Trading Commission, have increasingly been attentive to crypto. Their actions, including enforcement against major crypto exchanges and firms, highlight the growing concern over the responsible dissemination of crypto-related information.

Advertisement
Advertisement

FINRA’s Proactive Stance in Crypto Oversight

FINRA has, as a result, taken proactive steps to integrate crypto assets into its annual oversight report, marking an evolution in its approach to this burgeoning sector. Including crypto assets, additionally, reflects an acknowledgment of the growing intersection between traditional finance and digital assets, necessitating updated regulatory frameworks and guidance for member firms.

The authority’s efforts, moreover, in monitoring and regulating communications are crucial, especially considering the rapid growth and complex nature of the crypto market.

By maintaining a rigorous watch over these communications, FINRA aims to safeguard investors from potential misinformation, thereby ensuring a healthier and more transparent investment environment in the crypto sphere.

Read Also: Strike CEO Endorses Bitcoin While Calling Crypto ‘Garbage’

Advertisement
Kelvin Munene Murithi
Kelvin Munene is a crypto and finance journalist with over 5 years of experience, offering in-depth market analysis and expert commentary . With a Bachelor's degree in Journalism and Actuarial Science from Mount Kenya University, Kelvin is known for his meticulous research and strong writing skills, particularly in cryptocurrency, blockchain, and financial markets. His work has been featured across top industry publications such as Coingape, Cryptobasic, MetaNews, Cryptotimes, Coinedition, TheCoinrepublic, Cryptotale, and Analytics Insight among others, where he consistently provides timely updates and insightful content. Kelvin’s focus lies in uncovering emerging trends in the crypto space, delivering factual and data-driven analyses that help readers make informed decisions. His expertise extends across market cycles, technological innovations, and regulatory shifts that shape the crypto landscape. Beyond his professional achievements, Kelvin has a passion for chess, traveling, and exploring new adventures.
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.