Binance, one of the world's largest cryptocurrency exchanges, may face an "epic bank run," according to John Reed Stark, a former attorney for the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).
In a tweet posted on March 6, Stark called Binance a "shadow bank" that mints its own counterfeit currency while providing a range of financial services with no US regulatory oversight or audit.
Stark's comments come amid growing concerns from US lawmakers over Binance's operations.
In a recent letter, U.S. Senators, including progressive Democrat Elizabeth Warren, called for the company to hand over its records, citing money laundering and other threats. Binance has denied any wrongdoing and claimed innocence in response to the Senators' concerns.
Now, Stark believes that a bank run is inevitable, and the consequences for investors could be devastating. He noted that, unlike a traditional bank, Binance is not subject to the same regulations and does not hold deposits in the same way. Once withdrawals are suspended, Stark warned, customers would be cut off, and they could become unsecured creditors.
Alex DovbnyaWhile Brady Dale, a journalist who commented on Stark's tweet, argued that Binance is behaving more like an exchange than a bank, Stark disagreed, stating that a collapse at Binance could have "devastating investor carnage."
"In order for exchanges to run properly, they need mandated oversight, audit, inspection, insurance, net capital limits, commingling rules, licensure of individuals, and a vast array of critical regulatory protections," Stark said.
The cryptocurrency giant has previously defended its operations and claimed to be committed to compliance with all relevant regulations.
Vladislav Sopov
Dan Burgin