This Crypto Bank Is Giving Sleepless Nights to US Watchdogs

Silvergate bank's announcement of delaying the filing of its annual reports send its stock tumbling down more than 30%.
By Bhushan Akolkar
Silvergate citadel crypto news

The problems for crypto bank Silvergate Capital (NYSE: SI) continue to get from bad to worse. On Wednesday, March 1, Silvergate Bank announced that it would be delaying the filing of its annual report.

The announcement had an instant impact on the SI stock price which plunged more than 30% in the aftermarket hours. This happened as Silvergate Bank stated that they need more time in assessing the extent of damage to its finances stemming from the crypto rout of 2022.

Amid a wave of high-profile bankruptcies during the fourth quarter, Silvergate Bank reported a net loss of $1 billion. These events have left the crypto bank at risk of being “less than well-capitalized”. In its recent filing submitted on Wednesday, Silvergate Bank stated:

It was “evaluating the impact that these subsequent events have on its ability to continue as a going concern for the twelve months following the issuance of its financial statements”.

Besides, it further added that some important factors could cause the company’s actual results to differ from their forward-looking statements. Additionally, the crypto bank also hinted at the possibility of regulatory scrutiny in the future.

Silvergate also added that the bank’s capital ratios could take a hit from the fresh losses on their securities portfolios. In order to meet the heavy withdrawals from its crypto customers, the bank has been selling securities describing it as a “crisis of confidence” in the crypto sector.

“These additional losses will negatively impact the regulatory capital ratios . . . and could result in the company and the bank being less than well-capitalised,” Silvergate said.

Silvergate Crisis Gives Worst Fears to US Regulators

The recent turn of events at Silvergate Capital has forced US authorities to rethink the involvement of crypto within the traditional financial system. Thus, US lawmakers have started to rethink whether banks can handle risks associated with digital assets. Todd Baker, a senior fellow at Columbia University’s Richman Center for Business, Law and Public Policy told Bloomberg:

“It confirms the fears that many regulators have had. If this bank fails, it’s going to be held up as an example of why banks should be extremely conservative in dealing with crypto companies.”

Last month in January, the top three US regulators issued a strict warning that banks shouldn’t undertake crypto-related risks that they can’t manage themselves. The Silvergate episode has waded deeper into the US policy debate.

Advertisement
Bhushan Akolkar
Bhushan is a seasoned crypto writer with over eight years of experience spanning more than 10,000 contributions across multiple platforms like CoinGape, CoinSpeaker, Bitcoinist, Crypto News Flash, and others. Being a Fintech enthusiast, he loves reporting across Crypto, Blockchain, DeFi, Global Macros with a keen understanding in financial markets. 

He is committed to continuous learning and stays motivated by sharing the knowledge he acquires. In his free time, Bhushan enjoys reading thriller fiction novels and occasionally explores his culinary skills. Bhushan has a bachelors degree in electronics engineering, however, his interest in finance and economics drives him to crypto and blockchain.
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.