In a significant development, Terraform Labs, the organization behind the stablecoin TerraUSD (UST) that disrupted the crypto market in 2022, has officially filed for bankruptcy in the state of Delaware, United States. As stated in the court documents presented on Sunday, this move is positioned as a strategic step to address legal challenges while ensuring continuity in achieving the company’s objectives.
Key Details on Terraform Labs (TFL) Bankruptcy Filing
Founded by Do Kwon and headquartered in Singapore, Terraform Labs initiated the Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection process, as detailed in documents submitted to the Delaware bankruptcy court on January 21.
While the company’s estimated assets and liabilities range between $100 million and $500 million, the number of creditors varies from 100 to 199. Do Kwon, who owns a 92% majority stake in Terraform Labs, manages the company, with South Korean entrepreneur Daniel Shin owning the remaining shares.
Terraform Labs CEO Chris Amani emphasized the importance of this strategic move, stating:
“The Terra community and ecosystem have shown unprecedented resilience in the face of challenges, and this action is necessary to continue working towards our common goals while resolving pending legal challenges.”
Legal Challenges and Fraud Allegations
Legal challenges and fraud allegations lie behind Terraform Labs’ bankruptcy filing. Co-founder Do Kwon and the company face fraud charges and are also being sued by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).
In December, Judge Jed S. Rakoff ruled in favor of the SEC, confirming that Terraform Labs and Do Kwon sold unregistered securities, thereby violating securities laws. In particular, the court dismissed allegations related to the company’s involvement in transactions involving unregistered security-based swaps. The SEC’s fraud case against Terraform Labs will continue to be heard by a jury.
Market Impact: Terra (LUNA) and LUNC Price Movements
Following these legal developments, Terra’s native cryptocurrency Terra (LUNA) experienced a 6% drop in the last 24 hours, with a current trading price of $0.62. The 24-hour trading range fluctuated between $0.621 and $0.666.
On the other hand, LUNC saw a 2% decrease in the last 24 hours and is currently trading at $0.000105. The highest and lowest levels during this 24-hour period were $0.000104 and $0.000112, respectively. Notably, the trading volume for LUNC experienced a 1% decrease within the same time frame.
Navigating Turbulence with Strategic Measures
The Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing by Terraform Labs represents a critical moment for the company amidst legal challenges. As the crypto community observes the developments, the impact on Terra’s native tokens LUNA and LUNC reflects the market’s sensitivity to such significant events.
The strategic approach adopted by Terraform Labs aims to balance the resolution of legal complexities while continuing efforts towards their collective goals in the dynamic crypto environment.
