U.S. Regulators Conclude Mirror Trading International’s Major Bitcoin Fraud Case – CryptoMode
The U.S. District Court, specifically the Western District of Texas, has reached a landmark decision. It’s mandating Mirror Trading International (MTI) to pay a staggering $1.7 billion. This significant sum serves as restitution to the numerous victims scammed by MTI’s deceptive digital assets and forex activities.
Details from the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC)
On September 7, the CFTC unveiled these latest developments. They highlighted MTI’s reprehensible actions spearheaded by its CEO, Cornelius Steynberg. Mirror Trading International, under Steynberg’s leadership, deceitfully launched what they called an “international multi-level marketing scheme.” Shockingly, almost 30,000 Bitcoins were collected from over 23,000 unsuspecting U.S. individuals. In return, MTI pledged access to a so-called unregistered commodity pool. However, these promised actions never transpired.
Furthermore, the CFTC’s statement emphasized, “MTI misappropriated essentially all the entrusted funds.” This restitution order marks the culmination of a case initiated by the CFTC in June 2022.
The Mirror Trading International (MTI) Downfall: A Quick Recap
Taking a step back, MTI’s troubles began escalating towards the end of 2020. Tragically, an MTI director allegedly absconded, taking a treasure trove of Bitcoin investments. By January 2021, MTI boasted an impressive membership of over 260,000 from 170 countries. Yet, with the company’s collapse, investors faced staggering losses, approximating $1 billion. Many now label MTI’s operation as one of the grandest Ponzi schemes involving digital assets ever witnessed.
Commissioner Johnson urged the public to stay alert in the wake of these revelations. Her message was clear: arm oneself with knowledge against potential digital asset scams. She proudly cited the CFTC’s consistent efforts. In fact, since June 2023, the Commission has successfully tackled or settled ten fraudulent cases related to digital assets and forex. She said, “I salute the Division of Enforcement for its unwavering watchfulness and clear message. The Commission remains committed to guarding our markets against deceit.”
CFTC Commissioner Caroline Pham Weighs In
Interestingly, these Mirror Trading International events coincide with Commissioner Caroline Pham’s calls for revisiting cryptocurrency regulations in the U.S.
She voiced her intention to introduce a focused pilot program for digital asset markets on September 7. Her sentiments reflect a broader realization: the U.S. must swiftly adapt, or risk lagging behind crypto-friendly jurisdictions.
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