A Death In Cryptoland
CBC
When the young CEO of Canada’s largest cryptocurrency exchange is reported to have died while honeymooning in India, it sets off a cataclysmic chain of events that would leave about 76,000 people out of a quarter of a billion dollars and a trail of conspiracy theories around whether Gerald Cotten is dead or alive. A Death in Cryptoland is an original podcast series about a crypto-tycoon, his secret past, his sudden demise, and an online sleuth’s obsession to unravel the truth behind QuadrigaCX. Hosted by Takara Small. For the best in true crime from CBC, ad-free, visit apple.co/cbctruecrime.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Jun 30, 2025 • 51min
Introducing: The Outlaw Ocean S2 and The repo man of the seas
Max Hardberger, a maritime lawyer and ship recovery specialist, alongside Michael Bono, managing director of Vessel Extractions, dive into the high-stakes world of ship repossession. They share thrilling tales of covert operations like the daring retrieval of the Maya Express amidst local tensions. The discussion also reveals the ethical dilemmas faced in navigating the murky waters of maritime law, including clever methods of deception and the impact of corruption. Their experiences blur the line between legality and piracy, making for a captivating listen.
Jun 15, 2021 • 46min
Episode 6: The End Game
Conspiracy theories arise as Gerry's questionable actions and reported death coincide; controversy surrounds exhumation request to confirm his identity; exploring the possibility of faking death and easy ways to do it; unraveling the Quadriga Ponzi scheme and Jerry's involvement; introduction to the criminal underworld and discussion of Haitian zombie powder; investigation into Gerald Cotton's death finds no evidence of it being faked; frustration with law enforcement's lack of action in the QuadrigaCX fraud case.
Jun 8, 2021 • 41min
Episode 5: Where’s the Money Gerry?
Financial investigators uncover bizarre discoveries as they try to locate the missing quarter of a billion dollars from the cryptocurrency exchange. The podcast explores confrontations in a trailer park, the mysterious death of the CEO, Quadriga's fraudulent operation, and the possibility of faking death and exhumation.
Jun 1, 2021 • 37min
Episode 4: Voleur
The podcast explores the identity of Michael Patryn and his denial of being Omar Dhanani. Various individuals discuss their investigations, including searching for a mugshot and interviewing a former classmate. The podcast also delves into the rise and fall of cyber criminal operations like Shadow Crew and Liberty Reserve, as well as the ongoing issue of identity theft. The episode ends with a teaser for upcoming fraudulent activities within Quadriga.
Jun 1, 2021 • 34min
Episode 3: Cracks in the Empire
The podcast explores the rise and fall of QuadrigaCX, a cryptocurrency exchange. It discusses the founders' intentions, financial troubles, frozen accounts, and rumors surrounding criminal pasts. The episode concludes with a preview of the next episode involving a federal prison and a promotional message for another podcast.
May 24, 2021 • 39min
Episode 2: Hunting Ghosts
The podcast explores the collapse of QuadrigaCX and the search for answers through a web of deception and hidden identities. It discusses the suspicious circumstances surrounding the CEO's death, his erratic behavior in videos, and his early experiences in trading. The investigation uncovers connections between individuals involved in fraudulent investment programs and hints of potential trouble.
May 24, 2021 • 37min
Episode 1: The Body
Upon checking into a luxury resort in India, Gerald Cotten complains to staff he’s feeling ill. He and his wife are taken to a hospital and within 24 hours the young CEO is declared dead. A month passes before word gets out to customers that QuadrigaCX’s CEO is gone — along with their money.
For transcripts of this series, please visit: https://www.cbc.ca/radio/podcastnews/a-death-in-cryptoland-transcripts-listen-1.6035764
Apr 13, 2021 • 3min
A Death In Cryptoland: Trailer
When news spread that Gerald Cotten, CEO of QuadrigaCX, died on his honeymoon in India — and had been dead for a month — it set off a series of events that shook the cryptocurrency world. A quarter of a billion dollars worth of customer funds was gone. Two years on, conspiracy theories persist, leaving many asking, is he really dead?
A Death in Cryptoland launches May 25.
