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Matthias Knab, Opalesque for New Managers:

"Stable" Coins or Risky Business?

SEC Commissioner Caroline A. Crenshaw published a statement, pointing out that the SEC's recent statement declaring certain stablecoins as "non-securities" is not just legally questionable - it's a dangerous oversimplification of a market rife with hidden risks. While the Division of Corporation Finance leans on issuer assurances like reserves and redeemability, its analysis ignores the real-world mechanics of stablecoin distribution, redemption, and systemic fragility.

The Myth of Direct Redemption

The SEC assumes retail holders can redeem stablecoins 1:1 with issuers. Reality? Over 90% of USD-stablecoins reach retail via unregulated intermediaries (e.g., crypto exchanges).

No Contractual Safeguards: Holders rely on intermediaries - not issuers - for redemption, with zero recourse if the platform freezes withdrawals (see: FTX collapse).

Run Risk: During market stress, intermediaries may halt redemptions or pay below $1, triggering fire sales.