Backpack Exchange Claims Ownership of FTX EU Amid Dispute with FTX Estate Over Creditor Repayments

• The ownership dispute over FTX EU has ignited tensions between Backpack Exchange and the FTX estate, raising questions about asset transfers and creditor payments.

• This controversy follows Backpack’s recent assertion that it is the legitimate owner of FTX EU, a claim publicly challenged by the FTX estate, which insists that no ownership transfer has taken place.

• “The Backpack’s press release was issued without the knowledge or involvement of FTX,” stated the US-based estate, underscoring the ongoing legal complexities surrounding FTX’s bankruptcy proceedings.

This article delves into the ownership dispute of FTX EU between Backpack Exchange and the FTX estate amid rising concerns over creditor repayments.

Understanding the FTX EU Ownership Dispute

The legal battle surrounding FTX EU exemplifies the complexities of asset recovery following the collapse of FTX. Backpack Exchange has maintained its stance on acquiring FTX EU after receiving regulatory approval from the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission in December 2024. This acquisition was based on terms set out in a court-approved settlement designed to maximize returns for FTX’s creditors.

According to Backpack, the acquisition was not only lawful but necessary to ensure a smooth transition for FTX EU’s operations, which aim to provide a diverse range of cryptocurrency derivative services across the European landscape.

The Legal Standpoint of FTX Estate

In stark contrast, the FTX estate argues that ownership of FTX EU was never properly transferred, maintaining that FTX Europe AG retains full ownership of the entity. The estate emphasized, “As of today, 100% of the share capital of FTX EU is held by FTX Europe AG,” highlighting the unresolved legal matters regarding the intended sale to the co-founders and subsequent claims by Backpack.

This divergence in claims not only complicates the ownership issue but also raises significant concerns about the legitimacy of any services or customer protections provided under the Backpack banner.

Implications for Creditor Payments

Another critical layer to this unfolding narrative involves the management of creditor repayments. Backpack has publicly stated its intention to oversee the disbursement of funds owed to former FTX EU customers, naming its new entity Backpack EU in anticipation of this process.

CEO Armani Ferrante pointed out that the FTX estate is currently not responsible for any funds owed, stressing that Backpack will independently manage all transactions. His statement on X illuminated the route Backpack intends to take, yet was met with skepticism from the FTX estate, which claims it has not authorized such actions.

Growing Concerns Among Creditors

The rising uncertainty surrounding the repayment process is heightening anxiety among FTX’s creditors. Activist Sunil Kavuri expressed that the private sale of FTX EU to Backpack has led to confusion, particularly regarding which entity will ultimately distribute funds back to affected customers.

Kavuri noted that with multiple firms, including Kraken and Bitgo also poised to engage in fund distribution, the lack of clarity over the process could hinder efforts to resolve creditor claims efficiently. He remarked, “Some FTX EU customers signed up to these distributors, and they are confused about who will be distributing their funds back to them – Backpack, Kraken, or Bitgo.”

Next Steps for FTX Estate and Backpack Exchange

As both parties navigate this intricate legal landscape, the path forward remains shrouded in uncertainty. The FTX estate may need to reassess its stance to clarify ownership claims, while Backpack must reinforce its credibility amid growing skepticism.

Additionally, the impact of the ongoing disputes on the timeline for creditor repayments will be crucial for all stakeholders involved. Transparency and clear communication will be vital in restoring trust and ensuring that former customers receive their rightful funds swiftly and accurately.

Conclusion

As the standoff between Backpack Exchange and the FTX estate continues, the implications stretch far beyond simple ownership questions. With creditors anxiously awaiting resolution and former customers caught in a web of uncertainty, the stakes are high. Only time will reveal the true ramifications of this complex legal dispute and its ultimate impact on the broader cryptocurrency market.