Market
Why the SEC Issued a Wells Notice to Immutable (IMX)
Immutable (IMX) is the newest victim in the latest salvo from US regulators targeting cryptocurrency firms. The blockchain gaming platform revealed that it received a Wells notice from the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).
It adds to the list of Wells Notices issued this year, with the agency’s enforcement regulation still being a contentious issue in the crypto industry.
Immutable Challenges SEC’s Wells Notice
In a statement on Thursday, Immutable accused the SEC of overreach after receiving a Wells Notice. Citing unfair regulation, the blockchain gaming platform described the notice as part of a broader regulatory push that is squeezing the crypto industry. It added that the agency’s actions appear to be part of a “regulation-by-enforcement” strategy targeting crypto companies but offering no clear compliance framework.
“With this action, the SEC is continuing to indiscriminately assert that tokens are securities,” a paragraph in the statement read.
The allegations center on whether its 2021 IMX token listing and sales constitute securities violations. Immutable, however, has contested the SEC’s claims, arguing that the IMX token does not meet the definition of a security.
Read more: What Does It Mean To Receive a Wells Notice From the SEC?
Specifically, Immutable challenged the SEC’s claims that they may involve inaccurate interpretations of statements it made in 2021 regarding the IMX token’s pre-launch pricing. The firm also slammed the SEC for a “one-size-fits-all” approach. Nevertheless, the notice signals potential enforcement action against Immutable.
The SEC reportedly issued a Wells Notice to Immutable following an initial meeting with the company’s legal team — a move the company described as unusual. According to Immutable, such notices typically come after a series of detailed discussions, allowing time for a comprehensive evaluation. Immutable noted that the notice provided “fewer than 20 words of meaningful explanation,” prompting the company to question the SEC’s decision-making process.
“To manufacture a case on a listing that occurred in 2021, with practically no direct communication with the company, is precisely the reason the industry is so skeptical of any attempts from this SEC to argue it is attempting to provide clarity,” Immutable CEO James Ferguson noted.
Immutable criticized the SEC’s allegations as broad and vague, with CEO James Ferguson suggesting that meaningful discussions could have clarified many ambiguities now surrounding the case. Despite these legal hurdles, Immutable reaffirmed its commitment to the blockchain gaming sector and emphasized it will defend its practices vigorously.
“We are prepared to defend the rights of builders, creators, and gamers…we will keep building even in the face of regulatory pressure,” the firm concluded.
In the aftermath of this news, the IMX token is down by a stark 13.29% to trade for $1.18 as of this writing.
Crypto Crackdown Intensifies Ahead of US Elections
Meanwhile, this Wells Notice adds to a growing list of enforcement moves against crypto companies, with the SEC’s increased scrutiny of digital assets prompting a wave of legal defenses across the crypto sector.
Earlier in October, popular exchange Crypto.com launched a lawsuit against the SEC after receiving a similar Wells notice. The company claimed that the SEC was overstepping its regulatory authority by classifying various digital tokens as securities without sufficient basis. Similarly, Uniswap and NFT marketplace OpenSea also recently received Wells Notices.
The trend passes as an attempt to regulate the sector without establishing a formal rulebook. On this account, Blockchain Association, an advocacy group, noted in a recent report that the SEC has filed 104 enforcement actions against crypto entities since the beginning of 2023. Based on the report, these crackdowns saw these companies “waste” approximately $426 million in legal defense fees.
The regulator’s enforcement drive comes at a politically sensitive time, just ahead of the 2024 US presidential election. Some speculate that regulators are tightening their stance on crypto companies as a way to demonstrate heightened scrutiny of digital assets to the public. However, this regulatory push may also heighten industry demands for legislative action to clarify compliance standards for digital assets.
Read more: Crypto Regulation: What Are the Benefits and Drawbacks?
As the SEC’s enforcement actions expand, Immutable’s case could become a touchstone in the broader debate over crypto regulation. For now, the blockchain gaming firm is digging in for a legal fight.
“We’re ready to do our part, join the companies fighting for crypto, and defend digital ownership in gaming,” Immutable co-founder Robbie Ferguson said.
This standoff with the SEC highlights the pressing need for clearer compliance guidelines that balance consumer protection with innovation.
Disclaimer
In adherence to the Trust Project guidelines, BeInCrypto is committed to unbiased, transparent reporting. This news article aims to provide accurate, timely information. However, readers are advised to verify facts independently and consult with a professional before making any decisions based on this content. Please note that our Terms and Conditions, Privacy Policy, and Disclaimers have been updated.
Market
Bitcoin Cash (BCH) Price Up, Leads Daily Gains
Bitcoin Cash (BCH) price has risen more than 10% in the last 24 hours, surpassing the $10 billion market cap and signaling renewed bullish momentum. The recent surge has brought BCH closer to key resistance levels, indicating the potential for further gains if the uptrend strengthens.
However, indicators like the RSI and ADX show that while the trend is improving, it is not yet fully strong. Whether BCH can sustain its upward momentum or face a pullback will depend on how it navigates critical resistance and support levels in the coming days.
BCH Current Uptrend Is Getting Stronger
BCH currently has an ADX of 19.31, up from 12 just a day ago. This increase indicates that the strength of the trend is gradually gaining momentum after being weak.
However, since the ADX is still below 25, it suggests that the uptrend has not yet reached a strong or sustained level of trend strength.
The ADX measures the strength of a trend, with values above 25 indicating a strong trend and below 20 indicating a weak or uncertain trend. While Bitcoin Cash is currently in an uptrend, the ADX at 19.31 suggests that the trend is still in its early stages of strengthening.
If the ADX continues to rise above 25, it could confirm a stronger uptrend, but for now, Bitcoin Cash price movement remains cautious, with room for further development.
Bitcoin Cash Is Not In The Overbought Zone Anymore
Bitcoin Cash has an RSI of 64.5, down from over 70 just a day ago. This decline suggests that while the asset is still experiencing bullish momentum, the intensity of buying pressure has started to decrease.
The drop below 70 takes BCH out of the overbought zone, indicating a more balanced market sentiment.
The RSI measures the speed and magnitude of price changes, with values above 70 indicating overbought conditions and below 30 signaling oversold levels. At 64.5, BCH remains in bullish territory, which supports the ongoing uptrend.
However, the slight decline in RSI could mean the pace of gains is moderating, potentially leading to BCH price consolidation before any further upward movement.
BCH Price Prediction: Will a New Surge Occur Soon?
If BCH maintains its current uptrend and gains additional momentum, it could continue its rise after climbing more than 10% in the last 24 hours.
This strength could push BCH price to test the resistance at $536.9. Breaking this level would signal a continuation of bullish momentum and could attract further buying interest.
On the other hand, if the uptrend fades away and reverses, BCH price could retrace to test the nearest support levels at $424 and $403. If these supports fail to hold, the price could fall further to $364, representing a potential 27% correction.
Disclaimer
In line with the Trust Project guidelines, this price analysis article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial or investment advice. BeInCrypto is committed to accurate, unbiased reporting, but market conditions are subject to change without notice. Always conduct your own research and consult with a professional before making any financial decisions. Please note that our Terms and Conditions, Privacy Policy, and Disclaimers have been updated.
Market
Custodia Bank to Retrench Staff Again Amid Regulatory Heat
Wyoming-based crypto bank Custodia is reportedly deliberating more layoffs as it braces for ongoing regulatory scrutiny under the Biden administration. The decision comes as the crypto sector faces unprecedented challenges, including de-bankings and increasing pressure from US regulatory agencies.
Meanwhile, cryptocurrency market participants remain hopeful of a better regulatory environment amid expectations of policy shifts with the incoming Donald Trump administration.
Custodia Banks Plans More Layoffs Amid Regulatory Pressure
Custodia Bank might enact more layoffs after retrenching 25% of its staff in August. This comes as the digital asset-focused bank continues to devote resources to its ongoing lawsuit with the Federal Reserve (Fed), which denied the lender a master account last year.
“Fox Business has learned that Wyoming-based crypto bank Custodia Bank will implement further layoffs in order to preserve capital,” Fox Business correspondent Eleanor Terrett reported.
The bank did not immediately respond to BeInCrypto’s request for comment on the supposed layoffs. Early in 2023, Custodia Bank was denied a master account, which would give it access to the Fed’s liquidity facilities. The lawsuit challenges this denial.
Custodia Bank has been trying to conserve capital as it continues its legal battle against the Fed. During its last layoffs three months ago, the company’s founder and CEO Caitlin Long attributed the retrenchments to “right-sizing.” She said it was necessary to maintain operations while preserving capital during the lawsuit against the Fed.
Long also indicated that the efforts could continue “until after Operation Choke Point 2.0 ends,” referring to the alleged ongoing crackdown on digital assets under the Biden administration. Operation Choke Point was the name of an Obama-era effort that “choked off” high-risk industries such as payday lending, gambling, and firearms from banking access.
“I’m incredibly proud of the Custodia team, the services we’re building for our customers and our resilience in the face of repeated de-bankings due to no fault of our own. I especially thank Custodia’s customers and shareholders who have helped us continue the fight for the durability of banking access for the law-abiding US crypto industry,” Terrett added, citing Long.
Noteworthy, oral arguments in the lawsuit will take place on January 21. This will be the day after Donald Trump’s inauguration, following his recent win.
Regulatory Pressures Intensify But There’s Hope for Change Under Trump
Custodia is not alone in struggling against regulatory pressure. The crypto industry at large has recently faced mounting regulatory challenges. High-profile companies like Consensys have also recently announced significant layoffs.
As BeInCrypto reported in late October, the blockchain software firm behind Ethereum infrastructure tools like MetaMask revealed it was cutting 20% of its workforce. Its CEO, Joe Lubin, cited mounting pressure from the US SEC (Securities and Exchange Commission), among other uncertainties in the regulatory space.
“The broader macroeconomic conditions over the past year and ongoing regulatory uncertainty have created broad challenges for our industry, especially for US-based companies,” Lubin shared.
Meanwhile, the Biden administration has been accused of taking an increasingly aggressive stance toward the crypto industry. Among the accusations include enforcing stringent banking restrictions and debankings. Nevertheless, Trump’s recent win and upcoming inauguration reignited hope within the crypto sector for a more supportive regulatory environment.
The hope hinges on the delivery of Trump’s crypto blueprint. Experts believe Trump’s pro-business stance could revive the industry by easing regulatory pressures on crypto.
Brian Armstrong, CEO of Coinbase, has also expressed optimism about a potential shift in regulatory attitudes. Armstrong recently urged the next SEC chair to drop “frivolous cases” against crypto firms and issue a public apology. He slammed the current SEC composition for what he views as overly aggressive enforcement, calling out Gary Gensler.
“The next SEC chair should withdraw all frivolous cases and issue an apology to the American people. It would not undo the damage done to the country, but it would start the process of restoring trust in the SEC as an institution,” Armstrong posted.
Still, Custodia’s ongoing lawsuit is a symbol of the crypto industry’s fight for legitimacy and fair treatment within the financial sector. While the industry’s outlook remains uncertain in the short term, there is cautious optimism that the incoming Trump administration could bring relief to embattled crypto firms.
Disclaimer
In adherence to the Trust Project guidelines, BeInCrypto is committed to unbiased, transparent reporting. This news article aims to provide accurate, timely information. However, readers are advised to verify facts independently and consult with a professional before making any decisions based on this content. Please note that our Terms and Conditions, Privacy Policy, and Disclaimers have been updated.
Market
As BNB Remains Above $600, Can the Price Climb Higher?
Binance Coin (BNB) has stayed above $600 since November 8 but has struggled to retest $700 or near its all-time high.
This stagnation has left many BNB holders disappointed, raising the question: can BNB reach a new peak?
Binance Coin Experiences Low Volatility, Falling Interest
While BNB trades around $612, the volatility around it appears to be the reason why it has remained above $600 but has yet to make another substantial price increase.
When an asset is described as volatile, it means its price experiences significant fluctuations within a short timeframe. High volatility signals greater risk due to unpredictable price swings, but it also offers the potential for higher rewards.
Therefore, if buying pressure increases during high volatility, the asset’s price might increase significantly. If this volatility comes during high selling pressure, the price might tumble significantly.
According to Santiment, BNB’s one-day volatility has declined from its recent peak, suggesting reduced price fluctuations. This drop in volatility could make it difficult for BNB to achieve a notable breakout above the $600 mark, as the market may lack the momentum needed for a significant move.
In addition, Open Interest (OI), a metric that tracks the level of speculative activity around a cryptocurrency, has declined. High OI usually signals increased capital inflows into contracts, often indicating strong buying pressure capable of driving prices upward.
Conversely, a drop in OI reflects reduced liquidity in the market, often associated with selling pressure and a potential price decline. For BNB, the OI has remained relatively stagnant since November 19, indicating that traders are hesitant to inject additional liquidity or take on new contracts.
Further, the OI is notably lower at $532.08 million than on November 14. This lack of speculative activity indicates reduced market momentum, reinforcing the likelihood that BNB’s price will struggle to break above the $600 threshold.
BNB Price Prediction: Drop to $551 Likely
Similar to Open Interest, BNB’s price has followed a consistent trend since July, repeatedly facing resistance around $612. This indicates persistent efforts by bears to prevent the cryptocurrency from challenging its $724 all-time high.
Currently, with BNB trading near the same resistance level, a decline is possible. Historical patterns suggest that if the coin fails to break through, it could retrace to $551, as it did previously.
Similar to Open Interest, BNB’s price has followed a consistent trend since July, repeatedly facing resistance around $612. This indicates persistent efforts by bears to prevent the cryptocurrency from challenging its $724 all-time high.
However, a surge in volatility paired with strong buying pressure could challenge this outlook. In such a scenario, BNB might not stop at holding above $600 but also climb toward $660—or even retest the $724 high.
Disclaimer
In line with the Trust Project guidelines, this price analysis article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial or investment advice. BeInCrypto is committed to accurate, unbiased reporting, but market conditions are subject to change without notice. Always conduct your own research and consult with a professional before making any financial decisions. Please note that our Terms and Conditions, Privacy Policy, and Disclaimers have been updated.
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