Coinbase narrows sec subpoena to focus on gensler’s tenure communications

Coinbase Narrows SEC Subpoena to Focus on Gensler’s Tenure Communications

Last Updated: July 16, 2024By

Coinbase has refined its subpoena targeting the private correspondences of Gary Gensler, Chair of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), narrowing the scope to cover his tenure as chair exclusively.

In June, Coinbase had notified the SEC of its intention to subpoena Gensler’s personal communications pertinent to cryptocurrency, extending this inquiry to encompass a four-year period preceding his appointment. This ambitious request was met with staunch resistance.

The SEC swiftly condemned the subpoena, labeling it an “improper intrusion” into Gensler’s personal affairs. They contended that the demanded documents lacked any substantial relevance and could potentially dissuade individuals from public service due to privacy concerns.

Read more: Coinbase Ordered to Revise Efforts to Subpoena SEC Chairman Gary Gensler

“Considering the sheer irrelevance of the sought-after documents and the potential deterrent effect on public service, the Court should quash the Subpoena and enforce a protective order,” SEC attorneys asserted.

In a counterargument on July 3, Coinbase defended the validity of the subpoena, highlighting Gensler’s dual role as a pivotal regulator and a vocal academic authority on the regulatory landscape of digital assets and exchanges.

Presiding Judge Katherine Polk Failla of the Southern District of New York expressed her astonishment, describing Coinbase’s broad subpoena request as “surprising, and not in a good way.” She directed Coinbase to initiate a motion to compel, facilitating a formal process where both parties could present their arguments in greater detail.

Subsequently, in a revised filing, Coinbase announced its decision to limit the subpoena’s scope, seeking only the communications from Gensler’s term as SEC Chair.

“With regard to the subpoena directed at Mr. Gensler, Coinbase has opted to request the production of Mr. Gensler’s documents solely for the duration of his tenure as Chair of the SEC,” Coinbase elucidated.

Coinbase is required to file its opening brief for the motion to compel by July 23, with the SEC’s response due by August 5.

Amidst these legal maneuvers, Coinbase’s stock price experienced a significant surge, climbing over 11% in the latest trading session.

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About the Author: Eunji Lim

Eunji lim

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