Crypto
SEC Alleges NovaTech Ltd Ran Fraudulent Crypto-Centered Scheme

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) charged NovaTech Ltd, its operators, Cynthia and Eddy Petion, and the company’s top promoters with running a fraudulent scheme centered on crypto assets.
The defendants are charged with running a multi-level marketing company that claimed it would invest victims’ funds in crypto assets but did so with only a fraction of the funds, the SEC said in a Monday (Aug. 12) press release.
“NovaTech and the Petions caused untold losses to tens of thousands of victims around the world,” Eric Werner, director of the SEC’s Fort Worth Regional Office, said in the release.
NovaTech Ltd. did not immediately reply to PYMNTS’ request for comment.
The SEC’s complaint said that the Petions told investors that NovaTech would invest their funds on crypto asset and foreign exchange markets but instead used most of those funds to make payments to other investors, to pay commission to promoters or to be taken by the Petions, with only a fraction of the funds used for trading, according to the release.
The complaint also alleged that when NovaTech collapsed, most investors suffered substantial losses because they were unable to withdraw their funds, per the release.
The company raised over $650 million in crypto assets from more than 200,000 investors around the world, the release said.
In addition to its charges against the company and the Petions, the SEC charged six of NovaTech’s top promoters, saying that they recruited investors and promoters and were paid “substantial commissions” for doing so, according to the release.
“As we allege, MLM schemes of this size require promoters to fuel them, and today’s action demonstrates that we will hold accountable not just the principal architects of these massive schemes, but also promoters who spread their fraud by unlawfully soliciting victims,” Werner said in the release.
In another case related to crypto, the SEC said in March that it charged 17 individuals connected with Houston-based CryptoFX, alleging that they were involved in a Ponzi scheme.
The SEC’s complaint alleged that leaders of the CryptoFX network solicited investors by promising that the organization’s trading in crypto assets and foreign exchange would deliver returns of 15% to 100%, raised $300 million, and then used most of the funds to pay “supposed returns” to other investors and to pay commissions and bonuses to themselves.

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Crypto
Truth Social Files for Cryptocurrency Blue-Chip ETF

Truth Social, the social media platform backed by former U.S. President Donald Trump, has submitted an application for a cryptocurrency blue-chip ETF S-1 filing. This move marks a significant shift for the platform, which has been primarily known for its social media presence, into the realm of cryptocurrency investments. The filing indicates that Truth Social is aiming to capitalize on the growing interest in digital assets, particularly among its user base, which includes a significant number of individuals who are already engaged with cryptocurrencies.
The Trust’s assets are primarily composed of Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Solana (SOL), Ripple (XRP), and Cronos (CRO) held by the Trustee. Under the terms of the Trust Agreement, the Trust will allocate its assets to a percentage of the portfolio assets (allocation ratio) initially expected to be approximately 70% Bitcoin, 15% Ethereum, 8% SOL, 5% CRO, and 2% XRP. This allocation reflects a strategic focus on blue-chip cryptocurrencies, which are seen as more stable and less speculative compared to smaller, more volatile tokens.
The decision to file for a cryptocurrency ETF comes at a time when the cryptocurrency market is experiencing renewed interest. The market has seen a resurgence in activity, driven by factors such as declining interest rates and a more crypto-friendly regulatory environment. This shift has led many investors to reconsider their positions in cryptocurrencies, particularly in blue-chip tokens like Bitcoin and Ethereum.
The filing for a cryptocurrency ETF is a significant step for Truth Social, as it allows the platform to offer its users a more diversified investment option. By providing access to a blue-chip cryptocurrency ETF, Truth Social can attract a broader range of investors who are looking for a more secure and regulated way to invest in digital assets. This move also positions Truth Social as a forward-thinking platform that is adapting to the evolving financial landscape, where cryptocurrencies are becoming an increasingly important part of the investment ecosystem.
The submission of the S-1 filing is a crucial step in the process of launching an ETF. It involves providing detailed information about the fund’s structure, investment strategy, and risk factors to regulatory authorities. Once approved, the ETF will allow investors to gain exposure to a basket of blue-chip cryptocurrencies without having to directly purchase and manage individual tokens. This can be particularly appealing to investors who are new to the cryptocurrency market or who prefer the convenience and security of an ETF.
The filing also highlights the growing integration of cryptocurrencies into mainstream financial products. As more platforms and companies enter the cryptocurrency space, the demand for regulated and secure investment options is likely to increase. This trend is driven by the recognition that cryptocurrencies offer unique benefits, such as decentralization, transparency, and the potential for high returns, which make them an attractive addition to traditional investment portfolios.
In summary, Truth Social’s submission of a cryptocurrency blue-chip ETF S-1 filing is a strategic move that reflects the platform’s commitment to innovation and its recognition of the growing importance of cryptocurrencies in the financial landscape. By offering a regulated and secure investment option, Truth Social can attract a broader range of investors and position itself as a leader in the evolving world of digital assets.
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