Abra Settles with SEC Over Unregistered Securities Sales
In recent news, Abra has reached a settlement with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) over unregistered securities sales. The company’s crypto asset lending product, Abra Earn, was marketed as a way for investors to earn interest. However, it was offered and sold as a security without qualifying for an SEC registration exemption.
Abra has agreed to settle the charges without admitting or denying the allegations. This settlement marks a significant step in the SEC’s efforts to regulate the cryptocurrency industry.
Abra Earn was launched in February 2019 and allowed users to earn interest on their cryptocurrency holdings. The product was marketed as a way for investors to earn passive income on their digital assets. However, the SEC found that Abra Earn was being offered and sold as a security without proper registration.
Under the Securities Act of 1933, any offer or sale of securities must be registered with the SEC or qualify for an exemption. Abra Earn did not qualify for any exemption, and Abra did not register the product with the SEC.
Abra has agreed to pay a $300,000 penalty to settle the charges. The company has also agreed to take steps to ensure that its future offerings comply with SEC regulations.
This settlement is a reminder that companies operating in the cryptocurrency industry must comply with securities laws. The SEC has been cracking down on unregistered securities sales in the industry, and this settlement is just one example of its efforts.
In conclusion, Abra’s settlement with the SEC over unregistered securities sales is a significant development in the cryptocurrency industry. It serves as a reminder that companies must comply with securities laws when offering and selling products to investors. As the industry continues to evolve, it is essential that companies stay up-to-date with regulatory requirements to avoid similar charges in the future.