Zhao Dong’s conviction highlights China’s stance on cryptocurrency and foreign exchange regulation

Over-the-counter (OTC) cryptocurrency trading desk RenrenBit was founded by Zhao Dong, the infamous “OTC King.” Zhao Dong was found guilty in China of the charges against him. This conviction is a major milestone as China’s crackdown on criminal activity using cryptocurrency is intensifying. In the process, Zhao was involved in facilitating cryptocurrency and local currency transactions, which are considered illegal in the country.

An in-depth investigation into sophisticated financial dealings resulted in the defendant’s conviction. To build a case against Zhao and his friends, authorities relied on a variety of evidence, including confessions, communication records, financial records, and witness testimony. Zhao and his associates sought to prove that their actions were limited to transactions involving digital currencies and did not constitute foreign exchange trading crimes. On the other hand, the prosecution launched a defense by presenting evidence of foreign exchange in the conversation transcripts.

As the trial progressed, it became clear that Mr. Zhao had received money from individuals in other countries. A comprehensive operation was uncovered in which Zhao and other individuals in Dubai raised funds in the form of dirhams, used these dirhams to purchase Tether, and ultimately enabled local organizations to illegally resell Tether in Chinese yuan (RMB). .

According to the court’s ruling, Zhao was sentenced to seven years in prison and a fine of 2.3 million yuan (about $325,000). This ruling highlights China’s strict regulatory stance on cryptocurrency trading for financial purposes. This case relates to engaging in cryptocurrency trading in places where cryptocurrency trading is heavily regulated or outlawed, particularly through channels such as over-the-counter (OTC) desks, private chat groups, and transactions using stablecoins such as Tether. Highlights risks.

To carry out his operations, Zhao Dong was responsible for carrying out complex trade schemes using the Chinese yuan and other currencies. During the investigation, investigators paid attention to Chinese bank accounts, movement of funds between overseas fund pools, and transactions using Tether. Bitcoin. In the context of one of the schemes, Zhao was responsible for coordinating cryptocurrency transactions between a Dubai-based company and its domestic Chinese connections. This shows a large network of financial activities spanning multiple countries.

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