Sam Bankman Fried and FTX on trial - Day 3
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This is the S-B-F on Trial podcast and Here are the Top Stories and Major News in the Last 24 Hours and October 6, 2023.FTX co-founder Gary Wang testifies against Bankman-freed. Wang, who pleaded guilty to wire fraud, securities fraud, and money laundering charges in January, told the jury that Bankman-freed was aware of and directed the fraudulent activities that led to the collapse of FTX.Wang testified that Bankman-freed used FTX customer funds to make risky investments and to bail out his hedge fund, Alameda Research. He also said that Bankman-freed lied to investors and the public about the financial health of FTX.Bankman-freed's defense team has tried to portray Wang as a scapegoat and to argue that Bankman-freed was not aware of the fraudulent activities. However, Wang's testimony was damaging to Bankman-freed's defense, and it could be a key piece of evidence for the prosecution.Wang's testimony is the most significant development in the Bankman-freed trial so far. It is the first time that a former insider has publicly testified about Bankman-freed's involvement in the fraudulent activities that led to the collapse of FTX.Wang's testimony is also significant because it corroborates much of the evidence that the prosecution has already presented. For example, Wang testified that Bankman-freed used FTX customer funds to make risky investments and to bail out Alameda Research, which is consistent with the testimony of other witnesses and with documents that have been introduced into evidence.The Bankman-freed trial is expected to last for several more weeks. The prosecution is expected to call additional witnesses, including other former FTX employees and investors. The defense will then have an opportunity to present its case.The outcome of the trial is uncertain. However, Wang's testimony has dealt a major blow to Bankman-freed's defense. If the prosecution is able to convince the jury that Bankman-freed was aware of and directed the fraudulent activities at FTX, he could face a lengthy prison sentence.Thank you for listening and make sure you subscribe.