Prometheum Challenges Crypto Industry Norms with Launch of Ethereum Custody Services under SEC Supervision
Prometheum Challenges Crypto Industry Norms with Launch of Ethereum Custody Services
The U.S. crypto industry has been in an uproar over the lack of regulatory clarity, but one firm is taking a bold stance that has raised eyebrows. Prometheum, a digital assets platform based in New York, believes that there is already a clear legal path to trade crypto, contrary to the prevailing sentiment in the industry.
On Friday, Prometheum put its theory to the test by launching its long-awaited custody services for Ethereum. What sets this move apart is that Prometheum is classifying the token as a security under the supervision of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). This move aligns with SEC chair Gary Gensler’s view that the existing regulatory framework is sufficient for crypto trading.
Aaron Kaplan, the co-CEO of Prometheum Inc., the parent company of the entity launching Ether custody, stated, “It eliminates a lot of the arguments that things can’t be done under existing laws. It marks the first time that an investment contract digital asset security is being custodied and treated under the securities laws.”
Founded by brothers Aaron and Benjamin Kaplan, Prometheum gained attention in mid-2023 when it obtained a broker-dealer license that allows for the custody of digital asset securities. While many in the industry argue against treating cryptocurrencies as securities, Prometheum made a unique claim that its broker-dealer license would enable it to operate within existing SEC regulations.
This approach has sparked controversy, with industry leaders criticizing Prometheum’s strategy and doubting its ability to attract customers. However, Prometheum recently announced that it would offer custody services for Ethereum, signaling a step towards its full trading offering. By operating under separate entities approved by the SEC and FINRA, Prometheum believes it has found a compliant path where others have failed.
Despite concerns from crypto advocates about the SEC potentially viewing Ether as a security, Prometheum proceeded with its custody launch. Aaron Kaplan revealed that the product was soft-launched with a select group of companies, with plans for a full launch by early June and trading to follow within a quarter.
Prometheum’s bold move challenges the status quo in the crypto industry and represents a significant test of its unconventional strategy. Kaplan expressed confidence in their approach, stating, “It took a little longer than we anticipated, but we didn’t really have the option of doing it a different way.”
