- The embattled crypto exchange is set to start repaying creditors, with each receiving up to $50,000.
- Crypto markets expect changes as more crypto-friendly regulatory developments occur.
FTX, a former cryptocurrency exchange powerhouse, is reportedly preparing to distribute $1.2 billion to its creditors, industry insiders shared.
This is a payout that investors have waited for long and is part of FTX’s bold move to repay upwards of $16 billion in total. Traders with claims of up to $50,000 in digital assets are at the forefront of this repayment. To receive their funds, they must submit tax forms and complete their Know Your Customer (KYC) verification by January 20, 2025.
Sunil Kavuri, FTX creditor activist and Figuremarkets advisor shared a timeline on his X account on January 12, 2025: “FTX has given until 20th Jan to fulfill pre-distribution requirements for initial distribution Repayments likely won’t start before then Feb 25: Likely (up to 4th Mar).”
See Related: Mt. Gox Starts Paying Back Creditors In Bitcoin After 10-Year Wait
Could This Impact The Crypto Market?
FTX’s compensation to its customers could heighten the volatility of the crypto market. There are suggestions that many creditors might reinvest their funds in the market. This influx of capital could provide much-needed liquidity and potentially increase the value of digital currencies such as Bitcoin.
Anndy Lian, an inter-government blockchain adviser and investor, said: “Smaller investors, who’ve been hit hard by FTX’s collapse, might be more inclined to sell for financial security. Those with a bit more faith in the long-term prospects of crypto might stick it out, betting on future growth. It’s all about individual circumstances and risk appetite.”
Also, the Trump administration’s commencement is expected to bring regulatory clarity to the crypto sector with reforms like a strategic bitcoin reserve. This change could fuel investors’ confidence.
Ultimately, the FTX repayment and potential regulatory shifts could serve as incentives for renewed crypto growth. This comes even as the Fidelity Digital Assets report signals increased Bitcoin adoption among nation-states, central banks, government treasuries, and sovereign wealth funds.
