Brian
Armstrong, the CEO of Coinbase, one of the United States’ largest
cryptocurrency exchanges, has criticized JPMorgan Chase UK’s recent decision to
prohibit its customers in the United Kingdom from engaging in crypto-related
transactions.
Armstrong
expressed his discontent on X (formerly Twitter) on September 26, labeling
Chase Bank’s actions as “totally inappropriate.”
In
his tweet, Armstrong called upon U.K. crypto holders to consider closing their
accounts with Chase UK if they continue to face such restrictions. He also
urged U.K. officials, including Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Economic
Secretary Andrew Griffith, to investigate whether Chase UK’s actions align with
the country’s policy objectives.
Armstrong
maintained a hopeful tone. He suggested that there might be more to the
situation than initially apparent, stating: “Really hoping there is more
to this story than meets the eye, and that this does not reflect Chase UK’s
actual view.”
Chase UK
confirmed its decision on September 26. It cited that a significant level of
fraud in the crypto space as the primary reason for the ban. The bank clarified
that customers attempting to make crypto-related transactions would receive a
declined transaction notification.
Coinbase officially
supports the U.K. market alongside the United States, Europe, and Canada, as
stated on its website. The platform has been actively pursuing its expansion
efforts in the United Kingdom, as evidenced by its commitment to growing its
presence in the region, announced in April 2023.
Coinbase
continues to expand globally. However, it faces legal challenges in its home
country. In June 2023, the U.S.
Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) filed a lawsuit against Coinbase,
alleging violations of securities laws. This ongoing legal battle further
underscores the evolving regulatory landscape surrounding cryptocurrencies and
exchanges worldwide.
Totally inappropriate behavior from @Chase UK (this is their UK bank only is my understanding)@RishiSunak @griffitha It appears @Chase UK does not respect your policy goals – thoughts?
UK crypto holders should close their @Chase accounts if this is how they’re going to be… https://t.co/n8OBxhtpcg
— Brian Armstrong 🛡️ (@brian_armstrong) September 26, 2023
Traditional
Banks Tighten Grip on Cryptocurrency Activities
JPMorgan’s retail branch, Chase
UK, has joined Santander and NatWest in prohibiting cryptocurrency transactions,
reflecting a global trend. While officially…
