Tag: blockfi

  • What will happen to BlockFi?

    What will happen to BlockFi?

    BlockFi is a company that specialises in providing cryptocurrency lending services to clients worldwide. In our previous article, we reported that since 11th November 2022, BlockFi has paused its client withdrawals. Their reason for this was because of the “lack of clarity” in the status of FTX.com, FTX US and Alameda. Now the question is, what will happen to BlockFi? Will they also go bankrupt like FTX?

    What is BlockFi?

    BlockFi was founded in 2017 by Zac Prince and Flori Marquez. The aim of BlockFi was to create credit services for those with limited access to simple financial products. Their financial products included borrowing using crypto as collateral, the ability to earn crypto interest rates, and trading, among others.

    BlockFi prides itself as the only independent lender and is backed by notable investors such as Valar Ventures, Fidelity, Akuna Capital, and Coinbase Ventures to name a few.

    What is happening to BlockFi?

    Since 11th November 2022, BlockFi has paused its client withdrawals due to “lack of clarity” in the status of FTX.com, FTX US, and Alameda. Wire withdrawals and loan processing have also been delayed since 10th November 2022 but are expected to resume on 14th November 2022. When BlockFi users access the website, there is a banner warning them that client withdrawals have been paused. BlockFi also reminds users not to make deposits to the BlockFi Wallet or Interest Accounts for the time being.

    BlockFi suspends withdrawals
    BlockFi suspends withdrawals

    What is happening to BlockFi cards?

    BlockFi’s BlockFi Rewards Visa Signature Card was one of the first cryptocurrency rewards credit cards in the market. The BlockFi card’s major benefits include 1.5% crypto rewards on every single purchase, which can go up to 10% for spending with BlockFi’s partners.

    However, there have been people reporting that purchasing privileges on the BlockFi card have been suspended “until further notice”. This means that cardholders can no longer make purchases using the BlockFi card.

    BlockFi card services have been suspended

    This development stems from the fact that payments company Curve is in active negotiations with BlockFi to acquire their over 87,000 credit card customers. According to reports, if the negotiation is successful, Curve will take over the BlockFi card program, and aim for customers to still be able to earn crypto rewards as they did before.

    Is BlockFi in trouble?

    In June 2022, FTX US had extended a US$400 million line of credit to BlockFi with an option for FTX us to acquire BlockFi for a variable price of up to US$240 million. However, the collapse and bankruptcy of FTX have put the future of BlockFi in question for some. This is compounded by the fact that California’s Department of Financial Protection and Innovation (DFPI) said on 11th November 2022 that they were suspending BlockFi’s lending license for 30 days. During this suspension, the DFPI will be conducting investigations into BlockFi.

    BlockFi has also admitted in its latest update that it had “significant exposure” to FTX and their associated companies. However, they deny they had a majority of funds held at FTX. To learn more, check out our article- Were BlockFi’s assets held on FTX?

    BlockFi files for bankruptcy

    On 28th November 2022, BlockFi announced it had filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in the United States. This latest development comes after speculation has already been brewing in the past few weeks that it was affected by the collapse of FTX exchange. The bankruptcy will include Blockfi and 8 of its subsidiaries.

    According to Court documents, BlockFi has over 100,000 creditors. The company has both assets and liabilities in the range of US$1-10 billion and US$256.9 million cash on hand.

    Therefore, the future of BlockFi is still uncertain, and there is fear that it may go bankrupt like the FTX Group. However, there is currently no official announcement or news that BlockFi will be filing for bankruptcy.

    How much does FTX owe BlockFi and vice versa?

    During BlockFi’s bankruptcy hearing, the company revealed it has US$355 million stuck on FTX. Further, Alameda Research, an associated company of FTX, has defaulted on its US$680 million loan from BlockFi.

    On 28th November 2022, BlockFi had also sued Emergent Fidelity Technologies, a company owned by FTX’s Sam Bankman-Fried. The purpose of the lawsuit was to seek SBF’s shares in Robinhood that were used as collateral as part of a pledge agreement.

    On the other hand, on 1st July 2022, FTX US extended a US$400 million line of credit to BlockFi. Of this, BlockFi still owes FTX US US$275 million as allegedly agreed to by 89% of its shareholders. The purpose of the loan was to help BlockFi after it was affected by the collapse of Terra’s stablecoin in May this year. The loan was originally set to mature on 30th June 2027 and had an interest rate of 5% per annum.

    What will happen to BlockFi?

    On 28th November 2022, BlockFi had its first bankruptcy hearing. During this hearing, BlockFi expressed that it will intend to seek the Court’s approval to restore withdrawals for BlockFi wallet holders. However, no formal application has been made yet and the Court has not made a decision on whether withdrawals will be reopened to customers.

    BlockFi’s next bankruptcy hearing is presently scheduled for 9th January 2023 at 10:00 EST.

  • Were BlockFi’s assets held on FTX?

    Were BlockFi’s assets held on FTX exchange, which is now bankrupt, and its funds hacked?BlockFi provides lending services to clients across the globe. In our previous article, we reported that BlockFi has paused its client withdrawals since 11th November 2022 due to lack of clarity” on the status of FTX.com, FTX US and Alameda. 

    Does BlockFi have exposure to FTX?

    Shortly after BlockFi halted client withdrawals, the FTX Group filed for bankruptcy. Worse, FTX had been hacked and over US$600 million in funds were stolen. A lot of these funds belonged to FTX exchange users such as retail investors and even blockchain companies. Therefore, rumours have been swirling that BlockFi has substantial assets held in FTX.

    On 14th November 2022, BlockFi issued an update addressing the rumours that a majority of its assets were held on FTX. Admitting they have “significant exposure” to FTX and their associated corporate entities.

    On 28th November 2022, and during BlockFi’s bankruptcy hearing, the company revealed it has US$355 million stuck on FTX. On the other hand, Further, Alameda Research, an associated company of FTX, owes US$680 million to BlockFi.

    On 28th November 2022, BlockFi also sued Emergent Fidelity Technologies, a company owned by FTX’s Sam Bankman-Fried (SBF). The lawsuit seeks SBF’s shares in Robinhood that were used as collateral as part of a pledge agreement.

    Will BlockFi be able to recover any funds from FTX?

    According to BlockFi’s 14th November 2022 update, BlockFi “…will continue to work on recovering all obligations owed to BlockFi.” BlockFi, however, expects there will be delays in the recovery of assets from FTX. This is because FTX, FTX.US and Alameda have filed for bankruptcy.

    However, with the news that BlockFi has also filed for bankruptcy, it is starting to become uncertain whether BlockFi will be able to recover everything it has stuck on FTX.

    BlockFi assured users they were independent of FTX

    Previously, BlockFi Founder and COO Flori Marquez have assured users via Twitter that it is an independent business entity from FTX. Although, BlockFi does have a US$400 million line of credit from FTX.US (and not FTX.com). To learn more about the difference between FTX.com and FTX.us, check out our article- Key Similarities and Differences Between FTX.com and FTX.us

    Twitter post from BlockFi Founder and COO Flori Marquez

    What’s next for BlockFi?

    On 28th November 2022, BlockFi filed for bankruptcy. During its first hearing, BlockFi expressed it intends to seek approval to restore withdrawals from BlockFi wallets. However, no Court application has been made yet and the Court has not decided whether customers will be allowed to make withdrawals.

    BlockFi’s next bankruptcy hearing is presently scheduled for 9th January 2023 at 10:00 EST.

    To learn more, check out our other article- What will happen to BlockFi?

    FTX EXCHANGE (INCLUDING FTX INTERNATIONAL AND FTX.US) ARE NO LONGER IN OPERATION

    Both exchanges have filed for bankruptcy. Subsequently, the exchange was “hacked” and more than US$600 million worth of cryptocurrencies drained. The hacker is strongly rumoured to be a former FTX employee. For more about how this story unfolded and the latest news, check out these articles:

  • BlockFi suspends withdrawals over unclear status of FTX

    BlockFi suspends withdrawals over unclear status of FTX

    BlockFi is a company specialising in providing cryptocurrency lending services to clients worldwide. In a tweet on 11th November 2022, BlockFi stated they are unable to “operate business as usual” and will be pausing client withdrawals.

    BlockFi announces it will suspend withdrawals

    BlockFi states their decision to suspend withdrawals is due to a “lack of clarity” over the status of FTX.com, FTX US, and Alameda Research. Resulting in them being unable to operate their business as usual.

    Learn more about the current crisist at FTX and what will happen now that the plan for Binance to acquire FTX has fallen through here.

    To reassure users, BlockFi has stated that they will remain in communication with their users, albeit less frequently than they are used to. The Company’s Founder and COO, Flori Marquez had also previously reassured BlockFi users in a tweet that BlockFi is an independent business entity until at least July 2023. Furthermore, they have a US$400 million line of credit from FTX.us (and not FTX International- which is the subject of the current crisis). This US$400 million loan would allow FTX.us to acquire BlockFi if certain conditions were met, such as clearance from the SEC, and having at least US$10 billion in client assets.

    BlockFi website
    BlockFi website currently does not show they have any issues with withdrawals

    We noticed that when accessing the BlockFi website, there is no warning banner indicating that withdrawals are suspended and their News page does not show the latest Twitter announcement. Therefore, the only place to get the latest updates from BlockFi is via their official Twitter account and we would suggest affected BlockFi users check it frequently.

  • Best Crypto Savings Accounts 2022

    Best Crypto Savings Accounts 2022

    Let’s be honest, traditional banking methods are starting to lose their value. Brick-and-mortar banks are paying disappointingly low rates on savings accounts these days. So if you want a higher return for lending out your money, it might just be the right time to explore alternative routes to engage your idle cash.

    More and more investors are exploring the advantages of cryptocurrency savings accounts. A crypto savings account allows you to enjoy the benefits of an old-school savings account but with the growth potential of cryptocurrencies.

    In this guide, we will explore some of the best crypto savings accounts for you to earn interest with your crypto assets.

    What is a Crypto Savings Account?

    The concept of crypto savings accounts are similar to traditional savings accounts. You put crypto assets into your crypto savings account, which are then lent on your behalf by a third party. The difference with a traditional account is that instead of dealing with fiat currency you will keep your funds in the cryptocurrency of your preference. 

    If you are looking for high returns but don’t want the risk of volatility in cryptos like Bitcoin or Ethereum, you can also choose to earn interest on stablecoins that offer high rates with more stability. Stablecoins are fixed to the value of the US dollar so you will not be exposed to cryptocurrency price fluctuations. 

    The best crypto savings accounts offer up to 12% interest on stablecoins and lets you earn 6% interest on popular assets like Bitcoin and Ethereum.

    What are the Best Crypto Savings Accounts for 2022?

    With so many players in the market, it may help to compare crypto interest rates side-by-side before deciding on where to put your money. That being said, high interests should not be the only consideration for choosing a crypto savings account. Some other factors to consider are supported coins, compound interest, loan-to-value rates, withdrawal restrictions, transaction fees and security. You should always choose a platform that best fits your needs.

    Let’s have a look at some of the best and most trusted crypto savings account providers for 2022.

    Nexo

    nexo crypto savings

    Nexo boasts a high yield of interest, as high as 20% APY, on a wide range of cryptocurrencies. It also has a minimum lock-up time below 24 hours, which means that the interest is paid on a daily basis. The platform also has security measures like two-factor authentication (2FA), login alerts, and withdrawal confirmation.

    With no account minimums and a tiered withdrawal system, Nexo allows you to make instant transfers with no fees or restrictions. You may withdraw any amount for free up to the percentage of NEXO tokens you possess. A Mastercard debit card is also available and accepted by millions of merchants worldwide.

    NEXO token owners earn bigger interest rates on savings accounts. Daily compounded interest is credited to your account, so there’s no need to wait a month to begin earning passive income.

    Despite the fact that the platform is jam-packed with features, it is geared toward novices. It is simple to learn and even easier to get started.

    Highlights:

    • Daily payouts
    • No minimum deposit
    • Tiered withdrawal limits
    • Clean layout and shallow learning curve

    Consensus:

    Best for daily interest and beginners

    Gemini Earn

    gemini earn crypto savings

    Since its inception, Gemini has best been known for its unbeatable high-level security. When a certain amount is deposited, a vast majority of it is stored offline, in an air-gapped cold storage system, and only a small amount is stored in hot wallets. This minimizes the chances of theft and malware attacks. Gemini also provides two-factor authentication (2FA) and bug bounty to prevent hacking. According to reports, Gemini has secured the highest amount of insurance, around $200 million.

    With Gemini Earn, you can receive up to 8.05% APY on your cryptocurrency, including stablecoins. Gemini is highly rated, secure, and simple to use for basic functions like making a trade or linking to external bank accounts. There are some good educational tools available on the website and app and it also offers competitive rates, a broad variety of cryptos, and a solid yield on stablecoins.

    Gemini is a sophisticated trading platform that is ideal for amateur and experienced traders and investors of all skill levels. However, the fee structure for small transactions is expensive, as is the case with most exchanges. There is no linked debit card but you can shop at a variety of internet retailers through their mobile app.

    Highlights:

    • Most safe and secure provider
    • No minimum deposit
    • No withdrawal fee, but costly transactions fee and convenience fee
    • No collateral required for loans

    Consensus:

    Best for security

    Binance Earn

    Binance earn crypto savings

    Binance Earn is the one-stop crypto interest solution from Binance. With Binance Earn, you get a complete suite of staking and savings products for earning passive income on your crypto holdings without any trading involved. There are more than 60+ cryptocurrencies and stablecoins to choose from and you can earn interest under fixed or flexible terms.

    Users can select between regular savings products, staking, and DeFi solutions, each with its own risks, terms, and returns. These include Savings with flexible or fixed terms, Locked Staking, DeFi-Staking, ETH 2.0 Staking, Liquid Swap, Launchpool, and the BNB yield aggregator Vault.

    If you’re not interested in trading but want to increase your holdings, the interest-bearing products from Binance are worthy of choice. While the many features can be overwhelming at first, the savings and staking solutions from Binance could potentially create a passive income if you’re willing to learn how to use them.

    Highlights:

    • Flexible and locked terms
    • Minimum deposits varies
    • Largest cryptocurrency exchange in the world
    • Overwhelming for beginners

    Consensus:

    Best for experienced traders looking for flexibility

    YouHodler

    youhodler crypto savings

    YouHodler is a European bank-like crypto asset management platform with offices in Cyprus and Switzerland. The platform focuses on long-term cryptocurrency holdings, offering attractive crypto savings accounts with high compound interest of up to 12.3% APR and crypto-fiat loans with high loan to value ratios of up to 90%.

    YouHodler has no lock-up periods, and investors are allowed to withdraw or sell their assets at any given time. Accumulated interest is paid out once every week, and the weekly interest period starts compounding as soon as you deposit funds into your savings account.

    YouHodler keeps your digital assets secure with insurance, two-factor authentication, withdrawal stopping feature, and by using a combination of hot and cold storage. It also has bonus features like crypto-backed loans, margin trading, and it also supports NFTs.

    Highlights:

    • Weekly payouts
    • No lock-up period or special tokens required to get the best rates
    • 5 USD minimum deposit
    • Zero weekly or monthly fees

    Consensus:

    Best all-in-one

    Coinloan

    coinloan crypto savings

    CoinLoan ranks next to Gemini when it comes to the safety and security of your digital assets. Apart from their security features, CoinLoan also offers about 26 types of cryptocurrencies offering APYs between 3% to 12.3%, which vary depending on the type of cryptocurrency. 

    Interest for crypto is accrued daily on your deposit and credited directly to your wallet on the first day of each month. There is no minimum deposit requirement.

    Coinloan is a European-based cryptocurrency lending and borrowing platform licensed and authorized in the EU. For security, CoinLoan stores crypto-assets in offline, cold, multi-signature wallets with the digital asset trust custodian BitGo with $100 million worth of insurance from Lloyd’s. Furthermore, all transactions are done in accordance with Cryptocurrency Security Standard (CCSS).

    Highlights:

    • Licensed and certified platform with fund insurance
    • No minimum deposit
    • Intuitive and easy-to-use platform
    • Excellent customer support

    Consensus:

    High yields and second best for security

    Coinbase

    coinbase crypto savings

    Coinbase is one of the most well-known names in crypto wallets as well as holding and trading cryptocurrency. They also cater as one of the best crypto savings accounts for newbies. Coinbase does not loan out the currency that you invest in, and this is what makes it a great alternative to traditional banks because there are fewer restrictions when it comes to funding withdrawal.

    The crypto savings account provides a wide range of currencies with small minimum deposits needed. Coinbase has a simple, top-rated mobile app with additional features. There is a wide range of beginner tutorials, crypto hints, and lessons in the app. You may also get free cryptocurrency by enrolling in certain courses.

    The current APY for stablecoins is around 4% compounded monthly. Because Coinbase is said to be more rigorous in its lending procedures, the yield is relatively modest.

    Coinbase charges a high 0.50% fee on every transaction, which few people are willing to pay for tiny purchases. On most currencies, interest rates are little. More experienced traders may want more sophisticated trading tools and low trade costs.

    Highlights:

    • Well-known and trusted platform
    • Easy-to-use for beginners with plenty resources and tutorials
    • Low yields
    • High transaction fees

    Consensus:

    Best for beginners

    Conclusion

    Cryptocurrencies are quickly becoming mainstream, and an increasing number of providers now offer crypto savings accounts that pay monthly or daily dividends. These platforms provide a great investment opportunity for crypto owners looking for ways to generate passive income.

    With such a high yield, it’s no surprise that crypto owners are increasingly demanding reliable crypto savings accounts to put their money to work for them. However, before you invest your hard-earned savings in any crypto savings account, there are many factors to consider.

    If chosen wisely, crypto-based savings accounts can provide pretty good long term returns. 

    It all depends on the choices you as an investor make in terms of the currencies you choose, the duration and size of your investment, and your risk-taking ability.