In a significant blow to the cryptocurrency industry, Binance, the world’s largest crypto exchange, has been hit with a hefty $4.3 billion settlement from the U.S. Department of Justice (DoJ) and agreed to exit the US market. The settlement stems from allegations of money laundering and sanctions violations.
The immediate impact of these developments is evident in the price of BNB Coin, Binance’s native cryptocurrency. BNB has plunged by 12% in the past 24 hours, currently trading at $234 with a market cap of $35.5 billion.
The turmoil surrounding Binance has also triggered a surge in trading volumes, with BNB trading volumes exceeding $2.5 billion. Moreover, data from DeFiLlama reveals a net outflow of over $800 million in assets from Binance over the past 24 hours, contrasting with OKX, which experienced a net inflow of $145 million. Despite this outflow, Binance remains the largest crypto exchange in terms of asset value, holding over $67.9 billion.
The exchange’s outflows have intensified as former CEO Changpeng Zhao (CZ) faces multiple charges and awaits sentencing scheduled for February 23, 2024. CZ is currently out of custody on a $175 million bond, with permission to travel to his home country of the UAE. However, he is required to appear 14 days ahead of the next hearing.
Binance’s Complete US Exit
Earlier this year, Binance.US ceased operations following a lawsuit filed by the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) in June 2023. As part of the current settlement with FinCEN, Binance has committed to a complete withdrawal from the US market. Additionally, a monitor will be appointed for five years to oversee the exchange’s sanctions compliance program. The U.S. Treasury Department will also retain access to Binance’s records and systems throughout this period.
Substantial Fines and a Five-Year Monitoring Period
The settlements with FinCEN and OFAC entail substantial penalties. Binance will pay $3.4 billion to FinCEN and $968 million to OFAC. These agreements stem from accusations by both agencies that Binance violated the Bank Secrecy Act and sanctions programs.
In addition to the fines, Binance has agreed to appoint a monitor for a five-year period. This monitor will be tasked with overseeing the exchange’s sanctions compliance program and ensuring that it adheres to all applicable US regulations.
Related: Binance Facilitated Financial Transactions to Hamas and Other Militant Groups
The DOJ settlement also led to the resignation of Binance’s founder and CEO, Changpeng Zhao (CZ). CZ stepped down from his position in conjunction with the settlement agreement. CZ is currently out of custody on a $175 million bond. His sentencing is scheduled for February 23, 2024.
Conclusion
The recent developments surrounding Binance have sent shockwaves through the cryptocurrency industry. The exchange’s exit from the US market, hefty fines, and leadership changes are likely to have a significant impact on the crypto landscape.
