Fresh insights from CryptoQuant highlight a significant movement in Bitcoin reserves between Binance and Coinbase, revealing intricate shifts in the cryptocurrency landscape.
Specifically, the data indicates a decline of 5,000 BTC within Binance’s reserves, while on the other hand, it showcases a notable upswing of approximately 12,000 BTC in Coinbase’s holdings. This substantial disparity in Bitcoin reserves between the two prominent exchanges signifies a noteworthy redistribution within the market, hinting at evolving dynamics and investor behaviour.
This trend is reportedly connected to retail investors withdrawing from Binance, potentially due to the exchange’s legal concerns. Bradley Park, a Web 3 analyst at CryptoQuant, highlighted that the decrease in Binance’s Bitcoin reserves may stem from retail investors reallocating their funds to exchanges complying with regulations or possessing licenses.
$1B Outflow, CEO’s Exit Deal and Market Liquidity Dip
According to blockchain company Nansen and reported by ZyCrypto, after Changpeng Zhao’s resignation and admission of involvement in a deal with the Department of Justice (DOJ), Binance experienced an outflow of more than $1 billion in a single day. Additionally, market liquidity experienced a notable 25% decrease as market makers scaled down their positions.
The Department of Justice finalized a historic settlement with Binance for a cryptocurrency company totalling $4.3 billion. This arrangement encompassed a forfeiture of $2.5 billion and imposed a hefty $1.8 billion fine on the crypto exchange. Binance committed to exiting the US markets, financial remittances, and adopting rigorous compliance measures as part of the terms.
Remarkably, Binance’s token, BNB, saw an 8% downturn on the day the settlement was confirmed. However, despite this substantial decline, Binance holds assets exceeding $65 billion on its platform.
Inside Binance’s Regulatory Turmoil
In August, federal prosecutors launched an inquiry into Zhao, requesting extensive records as part of an ongoing investigation into potential breaches of US financial laws. The core focus revolves around allegations that Binance violated the Bank Secrecy Act by allowing transactions involving sanctioned individuals, among other regulatory issues under investigation.
The agreement between Binance and the DOJ reportedly mandates the exchange transfer of $3.8 billion to the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network and an additional $968 million to the Office of Foreign Asset Control as part of the settlement.
Concurrently, Binance Holdings has agreed to a settlement with the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), entailing the return of $1.35 billion in funds allegedly acquired illicitly. The agreement also mandates a payment of $1.35 billion in civil penalties. Notably, as part of this resolution, Changpeng Zhao and Samuel Lim, Binance’s former Chief Compliance Officer, are subject to substantial fines associated with the CFTC settlement.
Meanwhile, the Securities and Exchange Commission escalated its clash with Binance this year, lodging 13 charges against the exchange, Zhao, and associated entities. The accusations span unregistered exchange operations, offering unregistered digital assets, and allegations surrounding Zhao’s purported control over Binance.US.
