SEC
SEC typically refers to U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission which "protects investors in the $3.8 trillion municipal securities markets that cities and towns rely on to provide neighborhood schools, local libraries and hospitals, public parks, safe drinking water and so much more". But it can also refer to the security and exchange regulation bodies of other countries.
Ripple Executives Cleared of SEC Charges in Landmark Decision
In a major development, Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse and Executive Chairman Chris Larsen were cleared of all charges by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). This is the third legal victory for the executives and Ripple, leaving the crypto industry questioning the SEC's approach.
Scroll Launches zkEVM Mainnet
Scroll unveils its zkEVM mainnet on October 17, enhancing Ethereum’s scalability and developer engagement. Employing zero knowledge proofs, it boosts transaction speeds and reduces costs, promising a near-identical Ethereum experience, without compromising security or decentralization. The launch follows extensive testing, with notable contributions to Ethereum Foundation’s Privacy and Scaling Explorations. The initiative eyes global developer adoption, advancing Ethereum’s Layer 2 solutions.
US Toughens Export Controls on Semiconductors to China Amid Military Concerns
The US Department of Commerce tightened export controls on advanced computing semiconductors to China and other countries of concern to address national security threats posed by military modernization. The rules, effective from November 16, 2023, refine the parameters defining restricted chips, introduce a global licensing requirement, and expand controls on semiconductor manufacturing equipment. The update also adds certain PRC entities to the Entity List, requiring a BIS license for foundries manufacturing chips for these entities.
Platypus Recovers 90% of Stolen Funds from Recent Exploit
Platypus DeFi protocol has recovered 90% of the funds stolen in the recent 12 October 2023 exploit, reducing the net loss to about 18,000 AVAX. The protocol acknowledged the community's support in swiftly resolving the crisis and is making arrangements for the withdrawal of liquidity providers. Amidst ongoing investigations and enhanced security measures, Platypus continues to work on a compensation plan for affected users from previous attacks.
FTX Announces Proposed Settlement and Amended Plan in Chapter 11 Cases
FTX has announced a proposed settlement in their Chapter 11 cases, pending court approval. The settlement includes a "Shortfall Claim" for customers and an amended Plan of Reorganization. The Official Committee of Unsecured Creditors supports the plan, expecting expedited cases and improved recoveries. Customers may receive over 90% of distributable value globally.
Solana Foundation Offers $400k Bounty for Critical Code Discovery
Jacob Creech announces a $400k bounty for discovering code that can halt Solana network, part of Solana Foundation's endeavor to ensure robust network security.
Coinbase Calls for Judicial Intervention on SEC's Inaction
Coinbase's Chief Legal Officer, Paul Grewal, has filed a formal response with the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit, urging a mandamus order to compel the SEC to act on Coinbase’s rulemaking petition within 30 days, highlighting the SEC's prolonged inaction and the pressing need for regulatory clarity surrounding digital assets.
US Authorities Uncover Chinese-linked Bitcoin Mining Operations
US authorities have identified a significant number of Chinese-linked Bitcoin mining operations across the United States, sparking national security concerns. Published by The New York Times on October 13, the report highlights the close proximity of some of these operations to critical military and infrastructure sites. Amidst escalating US-China political tensions, the surge in Chinese Bitcoin mining operations in the US, coupled with their substantial energy consumption, poses critical questions regarding cybersecurity, energy sustainability, and geopolitical dynamics.
THORSwap Resumes Operations with Enhanced Security Measures to Combat Illicit Funds Transfer
THORSwap, a decentralized exchange (DEX) leveraging the THORChain protocol, resumed operations on October 13, following a temporary shutdown to address concerns of illicit funds transfer. The platform has enhanced its security measures, updated its terms of service, and partnered with an industry leader to prevent the movement of illicit funds. Although the move was met with mixed reactions from the community, it underscores THORSwap's commitment to providing a secure trading environment amid rising regulatory pressures in the DeFi sector.
SEC Chair Gensler Faces Congressional Pressure Over EU Coordination and Lack of Transparency
The House Committee on Oversight and Accountability has intensified scrutiny on SEC Chair Gary Gensler over the SEC's coordination with the EU on legislative matters and a perceived lack of transparency. The discord, highlighted in a letter dated October 12, 2023, follows a pattern of communication deadlock between the SEC and Congress, with implications on broader legislative and regulatory frameworks. The Committee expects more forthright engagement from the SEC by October 19, 2023, threatening compulsory processes for compliance.