Former co-CEO of Alameda Research and Sam Bankman-Fried's ex-girlfriend, Caroline Ellison, takes the stand in the trial for fraud. The prosecution questions her involvement and she points out Sam in the courtroom. The trial continues with Gary Wong's testimony and the examination of liquid and illiquid assets.
Caroline Ellison's testimony supports the prosecution's claim that Sam Bankman Fried used FTX customer funds for personal investments through Alameda.
Sam Bankman Fried's ambition and attitude towards risk provide context for understanding his actions in the trial.
Deep dives
Key Point 1: Caroline Ellison's Testimony
Caroline Ellison, the co-CEO of Alameda Research and Sam Bankman Fried's former girlfriend, took the stand in the Sam Bankman Fried trial. She admitted to committing financial crimes with Sam and pointed him out in the courtroom. The prosecution aims to prove that Sam used FTX customer funds for his personal investments through Alameda, and Caroline's testimony supports this. The defense may challenge her credibility as a bitter ex-girlfriend, but the prosecution is preempting that defense by addressing their relationship and Sam's control over her decisions at Alameda.
Key Point 2: Insight into Sam Bankman Fried's Personality
Caroline Ellison revealed some interesting aspects of Sam Bankman Fried's personality. She described him as very ambitious, sharing that he believed there was a 5% chance he could become the President one day. This aligns with previous interviews where Sam expressed his ambition to have a massive impact on the world. The prosecution also highlighted Sam's approach to risk, where he compared it to flipping a coin that could either destroy the world or make it twice as good. This insight provides context for understanding Sam's actions and decision-making in the trial.
Key Point 3: Cross-Examination of Gary Wong
During the cross-examination, Gary Wong, the quiet co-founder of FTX, clarified his previous statements about Sam's tweet declaring that FTX and its assets were fine before the bankruptcy. While Gary originally did not characterize Sam's tweet as a lie, the defense emphasized that if one considers illiquid assets, it could be reasonable to interpret the tweet differently. This raises questions about the accuracy and intention behind Sam's tweet, adding to the complexity of the case.
Sam Bankman-Fried, the former crypto mogul, is on trial for fraud. On today’s show, we talk to Lidia Jean Kott, who is covering the trial for another Pushkin show, about a dramatic day in court. Caroline Ellison, former co-CEO of Alameda Research and Sam Bankman-Fried’s ex-girlfriend, took the stand. She recently pleaded guilty to fraud, and is cooperating with the prosecution.