Binance, a leading cryptocurrency exchange, is currently facing multiple legal challenges across various jurisdictions, all of which it has denied.
Nigeria:
- Tax Evasion and Money Laundering Allegations: The Nigerian government has filed a lawsuit against Binance, alleging tax evasion and involvement in money laundering activities that contributed to economic instability. Binance disputes these claims, stating it is cooperating with tax authorities to address any historical tax liabilities. The trial has experienced several delays due to procedural issues, with the most recent adjournment set for April 30, 2025, to allow the Federal Inland Revenue Service to respond to Binance’s request to annul an earlier court order.
- Detention and Release of Executive: Tigran Gambaryan, Binance’s head of financial crime compliance, was detained in Nigeria for eight months on money laundering charges, which he denied. He was released after the charges were dropped to permit medical treatment abroad, though tax evasion charges against Binance continue.
France:
- Money Laundering Investigation: French authorities are intensifying their probe into Binance for alleged violations of European money laundering and terrorist financing laws between 2019 and 2024. The investigation includes allegations of assisting in money laundering related to drug trafficking and tax fraud. Binance has expressed disappointment over the continued scrutiny, maintaining its denial of all allegations.
United States:
- Regulatory Settlement: In 2023, Binance agreed to pay a $4.3 billion fine to settle charges of violating U.S. laws, including the Bank Secrecy Act, by failing to implement an effective anti-money laundering program. Founder Changpeng Zhao stepped down and pleaded guilty to felony criminal charges of money laundering.
Binance continues to deny all charges and is engaged in ongoing legal proceedings to contest these allegations.
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