Coinbase slams SEC for ‘choking’ crypto industry – What now?

  • Coinbase accuses SEC and Chair Gary Gensler of stifling crypto. 
  • Coinbase challenges SEC with concerns about crypto custody dominance.

As a seasoned crypto investor with over a decade of experience in this dynamic market, I find myself deeply concerned about the ongoing legal dispute between Coinbase and the SEC. The recent accusations leveled against the SEC by Coinbase resonate strongly with me, as I have witnessed firsthand how regulatory uncertainty can stifle innovation and growth in the crypto sector.


A fresh piece of information has emerged in the ongoing legal battle between the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and cryptocurrency exchange Coinbase.

In a new submission, Coinbase has alleged that the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and its head, Gary Gensler, are trying to limit the growth of the cryptocurrency industry.

A recent letter from the SEC emphasized an uptick in the regulatory body’s crackdown on cryptocurrency companies.

“The government is intent on crushing the digital asset industry.” 

The document submission aligns with an ongoing court case during which the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) alleges that Coinbase engaged in unregistered securities sales, a claim the company is disputing.

What is Coinbase claiming? 

The filling highlighted four main arguments. 

Coinbase slams SEC for ‘choking’ crypto industry – What now?

Remarking on the same, Coinabse noted, 

The SEC’s actions shown here indicate a firm stance against the digital asset sector, as they continue to withhold clear regulations that the industry desperately seeks.

Coinbase is contesting the SEC’s arguments, claiming they are inconsistent and insufficiently backed up. According to Coinbase, the SEC’s moves appear designed to stifle the cryptocurrency sector instead of promoting adherence to legal requirements.

Furthermore, Coinbase asserts that the SEC’s authority over the digital asset industry is questionable and aims to bring about major policy shifts via harsh actions.

From my perspective as a researcher, while Coinbase holds significant influence in the crypto custody market, there are voices within the industry raising concerns about this dominance.

Matt Hougan, CIO of Bitwise, contends that the complex regulatory environment works to Coinbase’s advantage by posing obstacles for potential rivals.

Coinbase slams SEC for ‘choking’ crypto industry – What now?

What lies ahead? 

With crypto regulation a contentious issue among stakeholders, it’s clear that the uncertainty surrounding the industry takes a toll. Ambiguous directives and the lack of established regulations contribute significantly to this hindrance.

Due to the ongoing debates within the industry, some stakeholders are advocating for a judicial order requiring the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to initiate rule-making processes. They believe this step is necessary for establishing regulatory clarity and market stability in the digital asset sector.

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2024-06-01 17:11