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Shanchun Huang Responds to SEC Allegations

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On January 11, 2024, the SEC filed a lawsuit against Future FinTech's CEO, Mr. Shanchun Huang, alleging manipulative trading and non-disclosure of beneficial ownership of the company's stock. Mr. Huang denies the allegations and vows to fight vigorously in court. The company stands by Mr. Huang and expresses confidence in his innocence.
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  • The SEC lawsuit against the CEO could potentially affect the company's reputation and investor confidence, leading to a negative impact on the stock performance.

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The allegations against Mr. Shanchun Huang, CEO of Future FinTech, by the SEC raise significant concerns regarding corporate governance and regulatory compliance. From a legal standpoint, the accusation of manipulative trading practices prior to his tenure as CEO, if proven, may indicate a severe breach of trust and fiduciary duty. Furthermore, the failure to disclose beneficial ownership and transactions could suggest a lack of transparency critical to investor confidence.

Shareholders and potential investors should closely monitor the proceedings of this case, as the outcome could have material implications for the company's reputation and financial health. A conviction or settlement may result in fines and stricter oversight, potentially affecting Future FinTech's operational freedom and stock performance. Conversely, a favorable outcome for Mr. Huang could mitigate these risks. It is essential to recognize that legal processes in such cases are often protracted, which can prolong uncertainty and possibly impact the company's market valuation.

The SEC's lawsuit against the CEO of Future FinTech Group Inc. represents a significant event that could influence investor sentiment and the company's stock market performance. From a financial perspective, such allegations often lead to volatility in the company's stock as the market reacts to potential risks associated with management's credibility and the integrity of the company's financial reporting.

Investors typically seek stability and reliable corporate governance and allegations of this nature could deter investment until the case is resolved. If the allegations result in penalties or changes in executive management, there could be direct financial implications for Future FinTech, including legal costs, fines and the potential for decreased operational efficiency during a transition period. It is also important to consider the indirect costs, such as the potential loss of business partnerships or customer trust, which could affect long-term revenue streams.

The civil lawsuit against Mr. Huang has broader implications for the fintech industry, where trust and regulatory compliance are paramount. The fintech sector is highly sensitive to regulatory actions, given its intersection with technology and financial services, areas with stringent oversight. An increase in regulatory scrutiny could have a chilling effect on the sector, leading to tighter controls and potentially stifling innovation.

Moreover, the case against the CEO of a fintech company may prompt investors to reassess the risk profiles of similar firms, particularly regarding management practices and disclosure policies. This could lead to a reevaluation of corporate governance standards across the industry, prompting companies to bolster their compliance frameworks to avoid similar issues. Such shifts often come with increased operational costs but can also create a more stable and trustworthy investment environment in the long term.

NEW YORK, Jan. 17, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- On January 11, 2024, the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") filed a civil lawsuit alleging civil violations of the federal securities laws against Mr. Shanchun Huang, the Chief Executive Officer of Future FinTech Group Inc. ("Future FinTech" or the "Company") for what the Commission contends was manipulative trading in the stock of Future FinTech before Mr. Huang became Future FinTech's CEO in 2020. The Commission also claims that Mr. Huang did not disclose his beneficial ownership of Future FinTech stock as well as transactions in such stock. Mr. Huang, through his lead attorney, Jacob Frenkel, Chair of the Securities Enforcement and Government Investigations Practice at national law firm, Dickinson Wright, PLLC, responds to the allegations.

Mr. Frenkel stated that "Mr. Huang looks forward to his day in court to fight vigorously the SEC's allegations. The defense that Mr. Huang will present already is well-known to the SEC from his cooperation in and multi-day sworn testimony in the SEC's inquiry that gave rise to the civil lawsuit. Mr. Huang has denied consistently the allegations of trading before he became CEO, and the evidence will be that he did not trade. Additionally, Mr. Huang relied on the advice and counsel of retained professionals in connection with his disclosure obligations. We believe that a jury in this civil case will find that Mr. Huang is not responsible for the violations that the Commission alleges against Mr. Huang. This case is just beginning, and we are a long way from any evidence being presented to a jury."

Mr. Huang, who has served as the CEO of the Company and member of the Board since March 4, 2020, denies the Commissions allegations. Mr. Huang stated "I know the allegations are not true, and I will work with my attorneys to fight to clear my name. I am confident that the law will be on my side, which is the side of justice. I look forward to my day in court to fight against the SEC and its allegations. I will continue to work hard and build value for Future FinTech's shareholders. I will not permit the SEC's case to interrupt my and the Board's vision for the growth and success of the Company."

Mr. Frenkel, the lawyer leading the representation of Mr. Huang, has been practicing law in the securities enforcement space for more than 36 years, having served for 9½ years as an attorney in the SEC's Division of Enforcement and as a federal criminal prosecutor of public corruption and securities for 3½ years, and has been representing companies and individuals defending SEC, as well as PCAOB and FINRA, investigations and litigation for more than 20 years.

 

 

Cision View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/shanchun-huang-responds-to-sec-allegations-302037242.html

SOURCE Future FinTech Group Inc.

FAQ

What allegations has the SEC made against Mr. Shanchun Huang, the CEO of Future FinTech Group Inc.?

The SEC has alleged manipulative trading and non-disclosure of beneficial ownership of the company's stock against Mr. Shanchun Huang.

How has Mr. Shanchun Huang responded to the SEC allegations?

Mr. Shanchun Huang has denied the allegations and expressed his intention to vigorously fight the SEC in court.

Who is representing Mr. Shanchun Huang in the SEC case?

Mr. Shanchun Huang is being represented by Jacob Frenkel, Chair of the Securities Enforcement and Government Investigations Practice at Dickinson Wright, PLLC.

What potential impact could the SEC lawsuit have on Future FinTech Group Inc.?

The SEC lawsuit could potentially affect the company's reputation and investor confidence, leading to a negative impact on the stock performance.

Future FinTech Group Inc.

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