Terraform Labs and its co-founder Do Kwon are contesting a hefty $5.3 billion fine proposed by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) following their April conviction for fraud related to the TerraUSD (UST) stablecoin crash in 2022.

SEC Seeks Record-Breaking Fine

The SEC is seeking a record-breaking penalty in the form of disgorgement, prejudgment interest, and civil penalties, citing the significant losses investors suffered due to Terraform Labs’ actions. The Commission contends the collapse resulted in a staggering $40 billion loss within the crypto market.

Terraform Labs Argues Limited Jurisdiction and Smaller Fine

Terraform Labs’ lawyers argue that the vast majority of their token sales occurred outside the U.S. and that the SEC’s accusations lack evidence linking their limited U.S. activities to substantial investor losses. They propose a much smaller fine of just $1 million. Do Kwon’s defense team echoes this sentiment, emphasizing his foreign activities and limited U.S. impact.

Uncertain Future for Kwon and Terraform Labs

Kwon currently awaits extradition to either the U.S. or South Korea, with both countries vying to hold him accountable. The final ruling on the SEC’s proposed fine is also pending court decision.

SEC Aims to Set an Example

The SEC views this case as a landmark opportunity to deter future misconduct within the crypto industry. Gurbir Grewal, Director of Enforcement at the SEC, highlighted the importance of compliance and protecting investors from such deceptive practices.

Crypto Industry Faces Increased Scrutiny

The SEC’s aggressive stance reflects a broader trend of increased regulatory scrutiny within the crypto space. Recent multi-billion dollar fines against Ripple Labs and Binance underscore this shift.

Industry Experts Weigh In

Legal experts suggest the SEC’s significant fine proposal aims to send a “terrorem” message, instilling fear and incentivizing compliance within the crypto industry. Whether this approach aligns with established legal frameworks for determining fines remains a point of debate.