CFTC Secures Record $17.1 Billion in 2024

In 2024, the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) secured and returned a record $17.1 billion, according to the agency’s report for the fiscal period.

.@CFTC brought 58 new actions in fiscal year 2024 and had record monetary relief of over $17.1 billion, which included $2.6 billion in civil monetary penalties and $14.5 billion in disgorgement and restitution: https://t.co/2En5bCBihP pic.twitter.com/g4TMB234qj

— CFTC (@CFTC) December 4, 2024

The largest contribution to this sum came from the bankrupt exchange FTX and its affiliate Alameda Research. Together, they paid $8.7 billion in damages and returned $4 billion in illicit profits — the largest recovery in the agency’s history.

Another significant case involved the exchange Binance and its founder Changpeng Zhao. The company paid a $1.35 billion fine, and the founder paid $150 million. Additionally, the court ordered the exchange to return $1.35 billion in illegal profits.

Among other notable examples, the Commission cited the ongoing case against former Voyager director Stephen Ehrlich, accused of fraud, and the recognition of Seneca Ventures as a Ponzi scheme, with over $230.5 million recovered.

Throughout the year, the CFTC initiated 58 new legal proceedings, some of which — particularly those involving digital assets — lack legal precedents.

“Misconduct within our jurisdiction rarely remains confined to it, especially as its boundaries are constantly redefined by breakthrough technologies. I commend our enforcement division for its flexibility in responding to market developments and the growing range of participants,” noted Commission Chairman Rostin Behnam.

As reported by FOX Business, the Trump administration plans to expand the CFTC’s authority, placing all digital assets deemed commodities under the agency’s control.