Sam Bankman-Fried, continuing his so-called apology tour on Twitter, told almost 60,000 listeners on a Twitter Space hosted by Unusual Whales that he plans to testify remotely at the United States House of Representatives Financial Services Committee on December 13. He has been confirmed previously to appear in person.
Despite the threat of a subpoena, Bankman-Fried was unable to confirm his appearance before Senate Banking Committee on the next day. Despite his public speaking skills, Bankman-Fried has been silent on Twitter since Dec. 9, when Bankman-Fried indicated that he would be appearing at the House hearing.
1) I don’t have access at all to my personal and professional data. There are limits to what I am able to share, so I won’t always be as helpful as possible.
The committee is still considering it useful so I am willing to testify at the 13th. https://t.co/KR34BsNaG1
— SBF (@SBF_FTX) December 9, 2022
John Ray, who has taken over from Bankman-Fried as FTX‘s CEO since the firm’s bankruptcy, is also slated to appear at the House hearings before the full committee. Ray, who was responsible for Enron’s liquidation, expressed dismay at FTX’s management. Hilary Allen, Ben McKenzie and other crypto skeptics are expected To appear at the Senate hearing. Allen is a law professor and McKenzie (whose real name is Ben McKenzie Schenkkan) is an actor who has spoken against crypto. This is contrary to the controversial trend of celebrities promoting crypto. Investor and former FTX spokesperson Kevin O’Leary and Cato Institute director of Financial Regulation Studies Jennifer Schulp are also expected to testify.
The United States authorities have threatened to extradite Bankman Friede from the Bahamas. He reportedly faces criminal charges in that country as well. According to US Justice Department, Bankman-Fried is being investigated for fraud relating to money transfers from the United States into the Bahamas. This was allegedly done days before FTX declared insolvent.
Mark Cohen, an ex-federal prosecutor, was hired by Bankman Fried to represent him. Cohen is perhaps best known for his work defending Ghislaine Maxille. Former CEO of FTX-linked Alameda Research Caroline Ellison will be represented by Stephanie Avakian, Securities and Exchange Commission Enforcement Director.