Sam Bankman-Fried Asks Donald Trump for Presidential Pardon

Disgraced cryptocurrency entrepreneur Sam Bankman-Fried has reportedly asked U.S. President Donald Trump for a presidential pardon as he continues efforts to challenge his conviction linked to the collapse of the FTX exchange, according to multiple media reports.

Bankman-Fried, the former chief executive of FTX, was found guilty of fraud and related financial crimes following the dramatic downfall of the crypto trading platform, once valued among the largest in the world. The collapse triggered billions of dollars in losses for investors and customers.

Reports indicate that the pardon request was submitted through legal and political channels, although it remains unclear whether the White House has responded or is considering the appeal.

Legal experts note that presidential pardons are rare in cases involving large-scale financial fraud, particularly where victims span multiple countries and involve significant public funds.

Bankman-Fried’s legal team has continued to pursue appeals and post-conviction motions, arguing procedural and evidentiary issues in the original trial. However, courts have so far upheld his conviction.

The pardon request adds a new political dimension to one of the most high-profile financial crime cases in recent years, drawing renewed attention to the collapse of FTX and its global impact on the cryptocurrency industry.

Further updates are expected as the situation develops.