Binance and CZ Face Lawsuit in Seattle Federal Court Over Alleged Money Laundering Practices

Cryptocurrency exchange Binance and its former CEO, Changpeng Zhao (CZ), are now involved in yet another class action lawsuit filed in Seattle Federal Court. The lawsuit accuses them of facilitating money laundering, which allegedly resulted in significant consumer harm.

The class action lawsuit, initiated by three cryptocurrency investors, accuses Binance of failing to prevent money laundering activities. According to the plaintiffs, Binance’s negligence allowed illicit funds to flow through the exchange, impacting individuals who have since been unable to recover stolen assets.

The lawsuit claims that Binance, under CZ’s leadership, prioritized profits over legal compliance. 

The “Crypto-Wash Empire”

The plaintiffs describe Binance as the “Crypto-Wash Empire,” accusing the exchange of becoming a repository for funds obtained through criminal activities. 

They argue that Binance’s practices enabled criminals and sanctioned users to profit, while maximizing the exchange’s revenue. This, they assert, constitutes unlawful extortion and violates the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act.

Bill Hughes, legal counsel for ConsenSys, emphasized that the plaintiffs allege Binance was not only aware of these illicit activities but also promoted them as a profitable business model. This, according to Hughes, positions Binance in a “difficult position,” with potential significant repercussions for the broader cryptocurrency industry.

Legal Implications and Industry Impact

Considering CZ’s recent legal troubles, the lawsuit represents a challenge for Binance and CZ. Last November, CZ pleaded guilty to money laundering violations and stepped down as CEO. He was subsequently sentenced to four months in prison, beginning his sentence in late May.

If the recent allegations are proven, they could set the stage for how cryptocurrency exchanges are regulated and held accountable for their role in financial crimes.

Binance has previously faced scrutiny for its compliance practices. The exchange has made efforts to enhance its regulatory measures and implement stricter anti-money laundering protocols.