In late 2018, the companies behind the most widely traded cryptocurrency were struggling to maintain their access to the global banking system. Some of their backers turned to shadowy intermediaries, falsified documents and shell companies to get back in. The WSJ digs in
A cache of emails and documents reviewed by the Journal show a long-running effort to stay connected to the financial system. The companies often hid their identities behind other businesses or individuals. Using third parties occasionally caused problems, including hundreds of millions of dollars of seized assets and connections to a designated terrorist organization. In a statement after this article was published online, Tether said the Journal’s report was “wholly inaccurate and misleading” and said that Tether and Bitfinex have “world-class compliance programs” and adhere to legal requirements. Mr. Moore didn’t reply to requests for comment. Tether has been under investigation by the U.S. Justice Department, according to a person familiar with the matter. The investigation has been overseen by the Manhattan U.S. attorney’s office.