U.S. SEC files market manipulation charges against three crypto market makers: ZM Quant, Gotbit, and CLS Global

ChainCatcher reports that, according to Financefeeds, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has filed market manipulation charges against three crypto market makers—ZM Quant, Gotbit, and CLS Global. The SEC accuses these three companies of using algorithms to conduct false trades, creating artificial trading volume, and deceiving retail investors. Additionally, the SEC has also sued nine individuals, including promoters and company employees, accusing them of hiring manipulation services and executing meaningless trades, in violation of anti-fraud and registration provisions of securities laws.

As part of the investigation, the FBI conducted an undercover operation using a fictitious token called NexFundAI, revealing these companies’ willingness to engage in false trading. This case has led to the indictment of 15 entities and has triggered related criminal proceedings.