Sam Bankman-Fried Denies $40 Million Bribe Allegations
Sam Bankman-Fried (SBF), the convicted founder of FTX, denies bribing Chinese officials with $40 million. He claims the payment was a ransom to unfreeze $1 billion in stolen assets. In a November 9, 2025, response on X (Twitter), SBF stated that Chinese exchanges stole $1 billion and offered to return $960 million.
However, blockchain analysts have tracked a $40 million transfer from FTX wallets in November 2021. This transfer links to a wallet connected to the Multichain exploiter. These findings challenge SBF’s explanation and raise questions about the payment’s true purpose.
FTX Solvency Claims Disputed in Ongoing Bankruptcy
SBF also claims FTX was never insolvent. He argues the company had enough assets to repay all customers and cover disputed claims. He blames mismanagement by the current bankruptcy leadership for the collapse.
John J. Ray III leads the FTX restructuring efforts. Creditors dispute SBF’s solvency claims. Some creditors accuse Ray’s team of causing inflated legal fees and manipulating asset sales. The U.S. government’s evidence at trial directly contradicts SBF’s claim that FTX was solvent when it failed.
Political Lobbying Campaign Seeks Presidential Pardon
A political campaign is lobbying for a presidential pardon for SBF. Investigative journalist Laura Loomer reported that this well-funded effort aims to portray SBF as a “political victim” of the Biden administration. The campaign seeks to influence the Trump administration for clemency.
SBF’s recent public statements focus on attacking the Department of Justice and reinforcing his narrative. This strategy supports his legal appeals and pardon requests. The FTX case remains active as a political and legal battle over its narrative and legacy.
