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Regulatory Constraints Prompt Strategic Shift
The decision to narrow Celsius Network’s focus exclusively to bitcoin mining comes in response to regulatory feedback and reservations expressed by the U.S. Securities & Exchange Commission (SEC). Following Celsius’ approval of its Chapter 11 plan in November, concerns were raised by U.S. authorities over the potential breach of U.S. law in relation to the company’s other planned business lines. While the SEC has not definitively concluded that the new company’s operations would violate U.S. law, it has stressed the need for regulatory oversight to protect customers and guarantee transparency in the use of their crypto assets. In light of this, Celsius has chosen to alter its course and pivot towards bitcoin mining, which was always intended as the core focus of the reorganized company. The revised strategy necessitates a modification of the bankruptcy plan, which Celsius plans to submit to the court for approval soon. The shift will enable Celsius to reduce management fees and increase the direct return of cryptocurrency to customers commencing in January 2024.
Transition Efforts and Ongoing Negotiations
Celsius Network’s shift towards bitcoin mining has triggered a series of negotiations with Fahrenheit, the consortium selected to lead the reorganized company. While Celsius did not provide details on the nature of these negotiations, the decision to refocus operations solely on bitcoin mining has likely required adjustments to the consortium’s proposed plans. The revised strategy may impact the future structure and goals of the reorganized company, necessitating ongoing discussions and potential modifications to the bankruptcy plan. Celsius aims to obtain court approval for the modified plan in the upcoming weeks, solidifying the transition towards bitcoin mining as the primary business of the reorganized entity. This strategic shift is expected to lead to lower management fees and an increased direct return of cryptocurrency to Celsius customers, improving their experience and financial outcomes starting from January 2024.
Celsius Network’s Bankruptcy Journey and Implications
New Jersey-based Celsius Network filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in July 2022 after temporarily freezing customer accounts to prevent withdrawals. The company’s decision to focus solely on bitcoin mining represents a significant pivot from its earlier business model and comes in the wake of other high-profile crypto collapses in 2022, including FTX, Voyager Digital, and BlockFi. Previously valued at $3 billion, Celsius Network’s restructuring plan, which initially sought to earn revenue through staking fees and managing its cryptocurrency loan portfolio, has been reshaped due to regulatory concerns. The modified strategic direction aims to align the company with regulatory expectations and optimize returns for customers. Through ongoing negotiations with Fahrenheit, Celsius endeavors to forge a new path forward in the crypto lending landscape, increasing its sustainability and delivering improved outcomes for its stakeholders.
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