Category Archives: Blockchain, Crypto, Digital Assets, Tokens, CBDCs, Stablecoins, Metaverse, NFTs

OpenSea Navigates Rough Seas, Lays Off 50% Staff

NFTs | Nov 8, 2023

Unsplash Catherine Kay Greenup, Rough sea

Image: Unsplash/Catherine Kay Greenup

OpenSea, a leading NFT marketplace, has cut its workforce by 50% and is hosting a strategic retreat to refocus on OpenSea 2.0 amidst a significant downturn in the NFT market.

The company, which was once valued at over $13 billion, has laid off approximately 50% of its staff, equating to around 100 individuals. This decision comes as OpenSea prepares to launch its ambitious OpenSea 2.0, a major overhaul aimed at reinvigorating the platform.

See:  Ex-OpenSea Manager Convicted in Landmark NFT Insider-Trading Case

The layoffs were communicated abruptly, with some employees reportedly losing access to OpenSea systems and their laptops within an hour of the announcement. This move has sparked a mix of reactions, with CEO Devin Finzer acknowledging the "painful, sad human element of these changes" and accepting responsibility for the layoffs.

Interestingly, the announcement was followed by an almost two-week-long company retreat at a $9 million mansion in West Hollywood, previously owned by celebrities Katy Perry and Russell Brand. This strategic gathering is intended to focus on OpenSea's new direction, with the remaining staff working on the OpenSea 2.0 vision.

The NFT marketplace has faced a significant downturn, with monthly trading volumes plummeting from approximately $1.2 billion in February 2022 to about $307 million as of October. This decline has been compounded by the rise of competitors like Blur and Magic Eden, which have gained market share and put OpenSea on the defensive.

See:  Animoca Brands’ $30M Investment in Hi: NFTs and Web3 Meet Finance With Customized Debit Cards

Despite the market challenges, OpenSea is pushing forward with its reorganization plan. The engineering and product teams will be streamlined, and the company is moving towards "radical transparency," opening up most channels on Slack to all employees. The goal is to reimagine the OpenSea experience, simplify the platform, and address user issues while delighting end-users with a fresh and innovative approach.


NCFA Jan 2018 resizeThe National Crowdfunding & Fintech Association (NCFA Canada) is a financial innovation ecosystem that provides education, market intelligence, industry stewardship, networking and funding opportunities and services to thousands of community members and works closely with industry, government, partners and affiliates to create a vibrant and innovative fintech and funding industry in Canada. Decentralized and distributed, NCFA is engaged with global stakeholders and helps incubate projects and investment in fintech, alternative finance, crowdfunding, peer-to-peer finance, payments, digital assets and tokens, artificial intelligence, blockchain, cryptocurrency, regtech, and insurtech sectors. Join Canada's Fintech & Funding Community today FREE! Or become a contributing member and get perks. For more information, please visit: www.ncfacanada.org

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The Complexities of Auditing Digital Assets

Digital Assets | Nov 6, 2023

Pexels Tima Miroshnichenko, Man doing paperwork

Image: Pexels/Tima Miroshnichenko

Digital assets, ranging from cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum to non-fungible tokens (NFTs) and central bank digital currencies (CBDCs), are redefining the boundaries of auditing and accounting.

Types of Digital Assets

The digital asset landscape is rich and varied, encompassing a range of assets that leverage blockchain technology for different uses. The rise of decentralized finance (DeFi) platforms has significantly contributed to the growth of crypto deals in the digital asset landscape.  As we move through 2023, here are some (not exhaustive) of the key types of digital assets that are shaping the financial and technological worlds:

See:  UK’s Future Crypto and Stablecoin Regulation

  1. Cryptocurrencies: These are digital or virtual currencies that use cryptography for security and operate on decentralized networks based on blockchain technology. Examples include Bitcoin (BTC), which is often considered a digital store of value, and Ethereum (ETH), which is used to execute smart contracts.
  2. Stablecoins: A type of cryptocurrency that aims to peg its market value to an external reference, like the US dollar or gold, to reduce volatility. Examples include Tether (USDT) and USD Coin (USDC).
  3. Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs): These are unique digital assets that represent ownership or proof of authenticity of a specific item or piece of content, typically using the Ethereum blockchain. They have been used for digital art, collectibles, and more. An example is the artwork by Beeple, which sold for millions of dollars.
  4. Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs): These are digital forms of fiat money that are issued and regulated by the central banks of respective countries. They aim to provide a digital alternative to traditional banknotes. While not fully implemented in many countries, several, including China with its Digital Yuan, are in advanced stages of testing.
  5. Utility Tokens: These tokens provide users with access to a product or service and/or utility within a particular ecosystem. An example is Filecoin, which is used to purchase storage space on a decentralized network.
  6. Security Tokens: These digital assets derive their value from an external, tradable asset and are subject to federal securities regulations. They represent rights to ownership, dividends, or interest in their issuing entity. An example is the tokenized real estate investments that allow for fractional ownership of property.
  7. Governance Tokens: These tokens give holders the right to participate in decision-making processes concerning the development and management of a blockchain project. An example is MakerDAO (MKR), which allows holders to vote on changes to the Maker protocol.
  8. DeFi Tokens: Associated with decentralized finance, these tokens are used within applications that provide financial services without the need for a central authority, such as lending or borrowing platforms. An example is Uniswap (UNI), which is used within the Uniswap decentralized exchange.

See:  Federal Reserve Launches Novel Activities Supervision Program Targeting Digital Assets and Non-Bank Partnerships via Banks

Each of these digital assets plays a unique role in the broader ecosystem and presents distinct considerations for regulatory compliance.  As these assets gain prevalence, the need for robust auditing practices becomes increasingly critical.

The Challenge of Digital Assets in Auditing

Digital assets introduce a level of complexity to the auditing process that is unprecedented. Traditional financial controls and regulatory frameworks struggle to keep pace with the rapid evolution of digital currencies and blockchain technology. Ryan Leopold, CPA, national banking and capital markets assurance leader (Canada) for PwC Canada, highlights the multifaceted nature of digital assets and the imperative for solid safeguards and controls in this CPA interview.

  1. Auditors must grapple with the intangible nature of these assets, the intricacies of blockchain technology, and the absence of established regulatory standards.
  2. The valuation of digital assets, their recognition as intangible assets under IFRS, and the subsequent measurement at cost pose significant challenges.
  3. The volatility and the innovative nature of these assets require auditors to adopt new methodologies and consider the fair value of these assets to provide a true financial picture.

Global Efforts to Standardize Auditing Practices

Efforts are underway to establish consistency across global auditing practices. Professional bodies like the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) in the U.S. are working towards adapting existing frameworks to accommodate the unique characteristics of digital assets. These initiatives aim to develop common views that reflect the nature of the assets and the needs of the capital markets.

The Role of Tech in Enhancing the Audit Process of Digital Assets

See:  CATO: Response to Request for Information on Digital Assets R&D

As digital assets continue to proliferate, the auditing profession is turning to cutting-edge technologies to keep pace with the complexities these assets present.

  • Blockchain analytics tools can track and analyze transactions on the blockchain, providing auditors with the ability to verify the existence and ownership of digital assets in real-time.
  • AI and ML can process vast amounts of data to detect anomalies and patterns that may indicate fraudulent activity or errors in the recording of digital asset transactions.
  • Smart contracts can automate certain aspects of the audit process, such as confirming that transactions meet predetermined conditions, thereby reducing the potential for human error.
  • With the rise of cyber threats, auditors need to understand and evaluate the security protocols that protect digital assets. This includes assessing the security of digital wallets and the integrity of key management systems.
  • Regulatory technology (RegTech) helps firms keep up with the rapidly changing regulatory landscape surrounding digital assets, ensuring compliance with global standards.

See: OSC Publishes TestLab 2022 Report: Exploring Innovations in RegTech with Participate Solutions)

The Future

The digital asset space is not just evolving; it's expanding, challenging auditors and accountants to match its pace with equal parts agility and acuity.  The global effort to standardize digital asset practices signals a future where digital assets are not outliers but integral elements of financial statements, valued and verified within an acceptable framework.


NCFA Jan 2018 resizeThe National Crowdfunding & Fintech Association (NCFA Canada) is a financial innovation ecosystem that provides education, market intelligence, industry stewardship, networking and funding opportunities and services to thousands of community members and works closely with industry, government, partners and affiliates to create a vibrant and innovative fintech and funding industry in Canada. Decentralized and distributed, NCFA is engaged with global stakeholders and helps incubate projects and investment in fintech, alternative finance, crowdfunding, peer-to-peer finance, payments, digital assets and tokens, artificial intelligence, blockchain, cryptocurrency, regtech, and insurtech sectors. Join Canada's Fintech & Funding Community today FREE! Or become a contributing member and get perks. For more information, please visit: www.ncfacanada.org

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Balance Applies for A Special Purpose Trust

Release | Nov 3, 2023

Balance celebrates 5 years of business

Balance, a trailblazer in digital asset custody, has officially lodged an application to incorporate a special purpose trust company with Alberta's Treasury Board and Finance.

This strategic step, taken on August 21st, is poised to position Balance as a qualified Canadian custodian, a development that is set to resonate positively within the digital asset and cryptocurrency ecosystem in Canada.

The digital asset domain in Canada has been characterized by a reliance on American custodians such as Coinbase and BitGo, with over $5 billion in digital assets under their management. This has been a source of consternation for Canada’s 10 restricted dealers and 22 listed public funds, which have longed for a local custodial solution. Balance's CEO, George Bordianu, underscores the significance of this initiative, stating, "Our trust application is one of the last pieces of the puzzle for us to bring a built-in-Canada, end-to-end solution to the regulated market.”

See:  Bitcoin Ordinals: Exploring the Convergence of Fungible and Non-Fungible Digital Assets

Balance's storied history in the Canadian market as the oldest and largest digital asset custodian has seen it provide exemplary service to a diverse clientele. Over six years, it has catered to digital asset exchanges, over-the-counter (OTC) and proprietary trading desks, neobanks, ATM networks, private funds, market makers, liquidity providers, and corporate entities not only in Canada but also in select global locations. With over $1 billion in digital assets under custody in its SOC 2 certified proprietary platform, Balance has demonstrated a robust and secure infrastructure that has won the trust of its clients.

The incorporation of a trust under the Loan and Trust Corporations Act (Alberta) is more than a regulatory formality; it is a commitment to enhancing the security and integrity of digital asset management within Canada. This move is expected to provide a much-needed local option for Canadian firms, mitigating the frustration associated with the lack of domestic custodial services and potentially catalyzing a shift in where Canadian digital assets are custodied.

For more information on this groundbreaking development and to understand how Balance is shaping the future of digital asset custody in Canada, interested parties are encouraged to visit www.balance.ca.


NCFA Jan 2018 resizeThe National Crowdfunding & Fintech Association (NCFA Canada) is a financial innovation ecosystem that provides education, market intelligence, industry stewardship, networking and funding opportunities and services to thousands of community members and works closely with industry, government, partners and affiliates to create a vibrant and innovative fintech and funding industry in Canada. Decentralized and distributed, NCFA is engaged with global stakeholders and helps incubate projects and investment in fintech, alternative finance, crowdfunding, peer-to-peer finance, payments, digital assets and tokens, artificial intelligence, blockchain, cryptocurrency, regtech, and insurtech sectors. Join Canada's Fintech & Funding Community today FREE! Or become a contributing member and get perks. For more information, please visit: www.ncfacanada.org

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SBF Found Guilty and Convicted on All 7 Charges

Regulation | Nov 3, 2023

Unsplash Ye Jinghan, Jail

Image: Unsplash/Ye Jinghan

In a verdict that has sent shockwaves across the financial technology sector, Sam Bankman-Fried, the former crypto golden boy and head of the now-defunct FTX exchange, has been convicted on all counts of fraud and money laundering.

The decision concludes a saga that has captivated and alarmed investors and regulators worldwide.  Bankman-Fried, who once stood at the forefront of the cryptocurrency revolution, now faces the stark reality of a potential maximum sentence of 115 years in prison. This outcome is the result of a jury's finding that he was integral to a scheme that misused billions of dollars of customer funds—a severe breach of trust and a violation of the law.

See:  Key Moments Inside the SBF Trial: Days 1-12

The trial, which lasted five weeks, delved into the intricate details of how FTX and its sister company, Alameda Research, crumbled nearly a year ago. The prosecution presented a compelling narrative, supported by the testimonies of former colleagues and confidants turned government witnesses, that Bankman-Fried knowingly engaged in fraudulent activities that led to significant financial losses for thousands of investors.

Attorney General Merrick Garland:

Sam Bankman-Fried thought that he was above the law. Today’s verdict proves he was wrong.  This case should send a clear message to anyone who tries to hide their crimes behind a shiny new thing they claim no one else is smart enough to understand: the Justice Department will hold you accountable.

Bankman-Fried's defense hinged on the claim that there was no fraudulent intent behind the borrowing of customer funds by Alameda Research. However, the evidence and subsequent jury verdict firmly placed the responsibility for the misuse of funds and the resulting financial devastation on his shoulders.

See:  SBF’s Trial: Insight into Chaos & Mismanagement

As the crypto community grapples with the implications of this high-profile conviction, the next steps are clear.

  • The sentencing, set to be determined by a judge, is scheduled for March 28 (typically decided within 90 days).
  • In the interim, the government must decide by February 1 if it will proceed with a second trial on additional charges.

This case is a watershed moment for the cryptocurrency industry, emphasizing the need for stringent oversight and ethical conduct. It serves as a cautionary tale that even the most innovative sectors are not immune to the age-old risks of financial misconduct. This conviction will undoubtedly influence the approach to regulation and compliance in the digital asset space.


NCFA Jan 2018 resizeThe National Crowdfunding & Fintech Association (NCFA Canada) is a financial innovation ecosystem that provides education, market intelligence, industry stewardship, networking and funding opportunities and services to thousands of community members and works closely with industry, government, partners and affiliates to create a vibrant and innovative fintech and funding industry in Canada. Decentralized and distributed, NCFA is engaged with global stakeholders and helps incubate projects and investment in fintech, alternative finance, crowdfunding, peer-to-peer finance, payments, digital assets and tokens, artificial intelligence, blockchain, cryptocurrency, regtech, and insurtech sectors. Join Canada's Fintech & Funding Community today FREE! Or become a contributing member and get perks. For more information, please visit: www.ncfacanada.org

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UK’s Future Crypto and Stablecoin Regulation

Crypto Regulation | Nov 1, 2023

Unsplash Nick Fewings, Tower bridge

Image: Unsplash/Nick Fewings

Herbet Smith Freehills Unpacks the UK's Progressive Stance on Cryptoasset and Stablecoin Regulation

The UK government has recently published a series of policy papers, shedding light on its future regulatory approach towards cryptoassets and fiat-backed stablecoins.

Herbert Smith Freehills law firm, expertly outlines the UKs forward-thinking regulatory framework and explores the delicate balance between nurturing innovation while ensuring financial integrity in the digital asset space.

Fiat-Backed Stablecoin Regulation (Phase 1)

  • The UK's Financial Services and Markets Act 2023 has set the stage for the regulation of fiat-backed stablecoins, with secondary legislation expected to be introduced by early 2024.
  • This legislation aims to bring activities related to fiat-backed stablecoins within the regulatory perimeter, empowering the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) to oversee these digital assets.
  • The government's policy update delineates the objectives of this upcoming legislation, ensuring a clear regulatory framework for stablecoins.

Wider Cryptoasset Regulation (Phase 2)

  • The UK government has also published its response to the February 2023 consultation on the broader cryptoasset regulatory regime.
  • This response clarifies and modifies some of the original proposals based on feedback received.
  • The implementation of this broader regulatory framework is anticipated to commence post-2024, following the completion of Phase 1.

See:  UK Releases Digital Asset Consultation Results

Managing Systemic Digital Settlement Asset (DSA) Firms

  • The UK government intends to apply a modified Financial Market Infrastructure Special Administration Regime (FMI SAR) to manage the failure of systemic DSA firms, including stablecoin entities. This approach aims to ensure the stability and integrity of the digital asset ecosystem.
  • Here's the link to the UK government response on 'Managing the failure of systematic digital settlement asset firms' (including stablecoins)

Further Notes:

  • The government acknowledges the need for a precise legal mechanism to define and categorize cryptoassets, ensuring clarity for industry stakeholders.
  • The UK's regulatory approach may diverge from the EU's MiCA and other jurisdictions, as portfolio management and investment advice on cryptoassets will not be regulated at this stage.
  • Mining will remain unregulated, while the government plans to expedite exploratory work to clarify the regulatory treatment of staking activities.

See:  FCA’s Expectations for UK Cryptoasset Businesses and the Travel Rule

  • Delineation between Phases 1 and 2: The government provides greater clarity on the definitions and distinctions between regulated stablecoins and broader cryptoassets.
  • Firms dealing directly with UK retail consumers will be required to obtain authorization, irrespective of their location.

The UK government's policy papers reflect a thoughtful and progressive approach to cryptoasset and stablecoin regulation, balancing innovation with consumer protection and financial stability.


NCFA Jan 2018 resizeThe National Crowdfunding & Fintech Association (NCFA Canada) is a financial innovation ecosystem that provides education, market intelligence, industry stewardship, networking and funding opportunities and services to thousands of community members and works closely with industry, government, partners and affiliates to create a vibrant and innovative fintech and funding industry in Canada. Decentralized and distributed, NCFA is engaged with global stakeholders and helps incubate projects and investment in fintech, alternative finance, crowdfunding, peer-to-peer finance, payments, digital assets and tokens, artificial intelligence, blockchain, cryptocurrency, regtech, and insurtech sectors. Join Canada's Fintech & Funding Community today FREE! Or become a contributing member and get perks. For more information, please visit: www.ncfacanada.org

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Is the Future of Casinos in Virtual Reality?

Oct 31, 2023

Pexels cottonbro studio, Women with VR googles

Image courtesy of cottonbro studio at Pexels

Casinos have always been a popular form of entertainment and gambling, attracting millions of visitors every year. However, the traditional casino experience may soon be challenged by a new technology that promises to immerse players in a realistic and interactive environment: virtual reality (VR).

VR is a computer-generated simulation of a three-dimensional world that can be explored and manipulated by the user through a headset and controllers. VR has been used for various purposes, such as education, training, gaming, and entertainment. But can it also revolutionize the casino industry?

In this article, we will explore the potential benefits and challenges of VR casinos, as well as the current state and future prospects of this emerging market.

Benefits of VR Casinos

VR casinos offer several advantages over traditional casinos, both for players and operators. Some of these benefits are:

- Enhanced realism and immersion: VR casinos can create a lifelike and engaging atmosphere that mimics the sights, sounds, and sensations of a real casino. Players can interact with other players and dealers, walk around the casino floor, and choose from a variety of games. VR casinos can also offer unique features that are not possible in real casinos, such as changing the scenery, customizing the avatar, and accessing special bonuses.

- Convenience and accessibility: VR casinos can be accessed from anywhere and at any time, as long as the user has a VR headset and a compatible device. This means that players do not have to travel to a physical location, pay for transportation and accommodation, or deal with crowds and noise. VR casinos can also cater to different preferences and needs, such as language, currency, and game selection.

- Innovation and differentiation play crucial roles in the appeal of VR casinos. They provide a unique, thrilling experience, which is key in attracting new customers and retaining the current ones. This fresh approach to gambling can give players a sense of novelty and excitement that traditional casinos might not offer. For instance, a VR casino could introduce a concept like a "1$ deposit casino Canada", where players could start their gaming experience with just a minimal investment. This would be an innovative approach that can make VR casinos stand out in a competitive market.

Challenges of VR Casinos

Despite the potential benefits, VR casinos also face several challenges that may hinder their growth and adoption. Some of these challenges are:

- Cost and availability: VR technology is still relatively expensive and not widely available to the general public. A high-quality VR headset can cost hundreds of dollars, not to mention the additional hardware and software requirements. Moreover, there are not many VR casinos in operation yet, and the ones that exist may have limited game options and functionality.

- Legal and regulatory issues: VR casinos operate in a complex and uncertain legal environment that varies from country to country. There are many questions regarding the legality, taxation, licensing, and regulation of VR casinos that need to be addressed by the authorities. For example, how will VR casinos verify the identity and age of the players? How will they prevent fraud and money laundering? How will they protect the privacy and security of the users?

- Social and ethical concerns: VR casinos may also raise some social and ethical issues that need to be considered by the stakeholders. For instance, how will VR casinos affect the mental health and well-being of the players? Will they increase the risk of addiction and problem gambling? Will they promote responsible gambling practices and provide adequate support for vulnerable players? Will they respect the cultural diversity and values of different communities?

Current State and Future Prospects of VR Casinos

The VR casino market is still in its infancy stage, but it has shown some promising signs of growth and development in recent years. According to a report by ResearchAndMarkets.com, the global VR gambling market was valued at $58.5 million in 2019, and it is expected to reach $2.5 billion by 2027, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 48.2%.

Some of the factors that are driving this growth are:

- The increasing demand for immersive and innovative gaming experiences among consumers

- The rising popularity and adoption of VR devices among gamers

- The technological advancements and improvements in VR hardware and software

- The strategic partnerships and collaborations among VR developers, casino operators, and content providers

Some of the key players in the VR casino market are:

- SlotsMillion: The first online casino to launch a VR version in 2015. It offers over 40 slot games in a virtual casino lobby that resembles a futuristic skyscraper.

- CasinoVR: A social VR casino platform that allows players to interact with each other in a realistic casino environment. It features six Texas Hold'em poker tables with live voice chat.

- PokerStars VR: A free-to-play VR poker game that was launched in 2018. It offers various game modes, environments, props, and customization options.

- NetEnt: A leading online casino software provider that has developed several VR versions of its popular slot games. Some examples are Gonzo's Quest VR, Jack and the Beanstalk VR, and Starburst VR.

See:  Economist Impact Report: Unfolding the Metaverse

The future of VR casinos looks bright and promising, as the technology becomes more accessible, affordable, and advanced. VR casinos have the potential to offer a new level of entertainment and gambling that can appeal to a wide range of customers. However, VR casinos also need to overcome the challenges and risks that they face, and ensure that they provide a safe, fair, and responsible gaming experience for all.


NCFA Jan 2018 resizeThe National Crowdfunding & Fintech Association (NCFA Canada) is a financial innovation ecosystem that provides education, market intelligence, industry stewardship, networking and funding opportunities and services to thousands of community members and works closely with industry, government, partners and affiliates to create a vibrant and innovative fintech and funding industry in Canada. Decentralized and distributed, NCFA is engaged with global stakeholders and helps incubate projects and investment in fintech, alternative finance, crowdfunding, peer-to-peer finance, payments, digital assets and tokens, artificial intelligence, blockchain, cryptocurrency, regtech, and insurtech sectors. Join Canada's Fintech & Funding Community today FREE! Or become a contributing member and get perks. For more information, please visit: www.ncfacanada.org

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SBF’s Trial: Insight into Chaos & Mismanagement

Crypto | Oct 30, 2023

Unsplash Wesley Tingey, Defendent

Image: Unsplash/Wesley Tingey

SBF Testifies, Revealing Chaos and Mismanagement at FTX

Sam Bankman-Fried took the stand and testified last Friday in the ongoing FTX trial providing insight into the chaotic environment that led to the collapse of one of the most prominent cryptocurrency exchanges.

SBF's testimony was a blend of admissions of incompetence and steadfast denials of wrongdoing. He claimed that the collapse of FTX was a result of maladministration rather than fraudulent activities. In a strategic move, SBF shifted the blame onto former colleagues, including Caroline Ellison, Gary Wang, and Nashid Singh, all of whom have already testified against him. This tactic aimed to paint a picture of a chaotic environment where mismanagement was rampant, but intentional deception was absent.

As the trial unfolds, it is impossible to ignore the cultural context in which SBF's actions and the subsequent legal proceedings are taking place. SBF's relationship with media, optics, and influencers has been a topic of much discussion and analysis of how SBF navigated the complex world of public perception and influence.

See:  Key Moments Inside the SBF Trial: Days 1-12

Tiffany Fong, a prominent crypto influencer, has been at the forefront of this cultural exploration and had extensive interactions with Sam Bankman-Fried, visiting him more than 10 times at his childhood home during his house arrest. She documented her experiences and interactions with SBF, sharing them with her followers.

Her interactions with SBF provide a unique insight into his approach to media and public relations. SBF, aware of the power of optics and narrative, engaged with influencers like Fong to shape the narrative around him and FTX.  Fong's relationship with SBF is explored in detail in this Rolling Stones article, highlighting her unique access to him during his house arrest and her efforts to share insights and information with the public.

SBF, facing seven charges of fraud and money laundering and claimed that the downfall was a result of maladministration rather than intentional fraud. This high-stakes legal battle is set to leave a lasting impact on the crypto industry.  The trial is set to be with the jurors soon, with the jury's verdict eagerly anticipated by many.


NCFA Jan 2018 resizeThe National Crowdfunding & Fintech Association (NCFA Canada) is a financial innovation ecosystem that provides education, market intelligence, industry stewardship, networking and funding opportunities and services to thousands of community members and works closely with industry, government, partners and affiliates to create a vibrant and innovative fintech and funding industry in Canada. Decentralized and distributed, NCFA is engaged with global stakeholders and helps incubate projects and investment in fintech, alternative finance, crowdfunding, peer-to-peer finance, payments, digital assets and tokens, artificial intelligence, blockchain, cryptocurrency, regtech, and insurtech sectors. Join Canada's Fintech & Funding Community today FREE! Or become a contributing member and get perks. For more information, please visit: www.ncfacanada.org

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