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<\/p>\nBefore crypto exchange FTX and its founder Sam Bankman-Fried (SBF) got tied down with allegations of misappropriation of users\u2019 funds, SBF was among the most influential crypto entrepreneurs. Before FTX collapsed, a leaked email exchange with a top regulator allegedly showed SBF\u2019s intent to get the exchange federally regulated.<\/p>\n
On May 28, 2022, nearly six months before FTX filed for bankruptcy and SBF resigned as the CEO, Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) chairman Martin Gruenberg received an invitation to meet SBF on June 13, 2022, the Washington Examiner reported. The email was mediated by former CFTC commissioner Mark Wetjen, who joined FTX US as the head of policy and regulatory strategy in November 2021.<\/p>\n
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In the latter half of the email, Wetjen told Gruenberg that FTX is in the \u201cunusual position of begging the federal government to regulate us.\u201d He further added:<\/p>\n
\u201cWe have an application before the CFTC that lays out for the agency how to do so. All the CFTC has to do is approve it. Once the CFTC does, the others will follow \u2014 the other major US exchanges also have CFTC licenses.\u201d<\/p><\/blockquote>\n
In response to the SBF\u2019s request, Gruenberg agreed to meet the duo, as shown in the leaked email below.<\/p>\n
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Following the collapse of FTX, SBF\u2019s political ties were uncovered amid parallel investigations. An FDIC spokesperson confirmed that the FDIC chairman met SBF as part of \u201croutine courtesy visits with leaders of financial firms and institutions.\u201d<\/p>\n