Matrixport Analyst Predicts Bitcoin ETF Surge After Binance’s $4.3 Bln Settlement

The investors seem to have remained concerned amid Binance CEO Changpeng Zhao’s $50 million plea deal and Binance’s $4.3 billion settlement have sent ripples through the crypto world. In contrast to the recent market sentiment, Matrixport analyst Markus Thielen believes this outcome is a boon for Binance, predicting its continued dominance for the next 2-3 years.

In addition, Thielen anticipates a surge in compliant exchanges and sees this settlement as a catalyst for the long-awaited approval of a spot Bitcoin ETF in the United States.

Binance Settlement Set To Propel Bitcoin ETF Expectations

Matrixport’s Markus Thielen emphasizes the regulatory impact of Binance’s settlement, stating that the industry’s cleansing by US agencies positions Bitcoin as a safe-haven asset. Meanwhile, the predicted surge in compliant exchanges, coupled with increased scrutiny, sets the stage for the long-anticipated approval of a Bitcoin Spot ETF.

Notably, Thielen asserts that the settlement dramatically increases the probability of a Bitcoin Spot ETF in the coming year in a recent CNBC interview, marking a pivotal shift from unregulated to regulated exchanges in the crypto landscape.

As the industry adjusts to a more regulated environment, institutions are expected to take center stage in 2024, with Bitcoin potentially becoming a focal point in investors’ portfolios. Meanwhile, the future, shaped by regulatory winds and institutional adoption, promises transformative developments in the crypto space.

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Legal Turbulence Of Binance

According to recent reports, Binance CEO CZ has agreed to pay a $50 million fine, while Binance faces a $4.3 billion payout. In contrast, Matrixport analyst Markus Thielen views this as a favorable outcome, suggesting that with CZ stepping down and the fine being less than feared of around $10 billion. In addition, he is anticipating that Binance is poised to maintain its top-three crypto exchange status for the foreseeable future.

The settlement, addressing money laundering violations and other charges totaling $898 million, includes agreements with FinCEN, OFAC, and CFTC, with $1.8 billion earmarked for these agencies. While CZ is barred from operating a business for three years, the possibility of a ‘clean’ return to Binance remains open.

Notably, Changpeng ‘CZ’ Zhao, co-founder and former CEO, has appointed Richard Teng, the former Head of Regional Markets, as his successor.

Also Read: Grayscale Meets SEC’s Trading and Markets Division Over spot Bitcoin ETFs, What’s Next?

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