By George Ward
The blockchain industry has witnessed tremendous growth recently, with many companies offering innovative solutions to traditional problems. However, as the industry matures, so too do the associated issues, with many companies now facing legal action over alleged misconduct.
Argo Blockchain, a UK-based cryptocurrency mining company, is the latest to face such scrutiny. The company has been accused of misleading investors and failing to provide accurate financial reporting.
False Statements And Consequences
Accordingly, investors in the crypto mining company have initiated a class-action lawsuit alleging that the miner made false statements and omitted crucial information during its initial public offering (IPO) last year. The investors claim that the company should have known how vulnerable it was to capital limitations, energy expenditures, and network problems.
Consequently, the investors allege that the firm was “less dependable” than led to believe, causing an exaggeration of the miner’s economic possibilities. The complainants pointed out: “Had [the investors] known the facts, they would not have purchased or obtained said securities or acquired them at the raised prices.”
On September 23, 2022, Argo revealed its Initial Public Offering (IPO) documents to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. The same day, it made 7.5 million shares available to the public, priced at $15 each, generating $105 million in proceeds before fees.
Unfortunately, since then, the miner’s share price has seen a dramatic drop and is currently trading at $1.96 per share, having reached its lowest point of $0.36. The recent lawsuit occurred after Argo failed to conform with Nasdaq’s listing rules on January 23.
The rule stipulates that a company must sustain a minimum closing bid price of $1 for ten successive trading days to maintain its listing on the Nasdaq exchange. Argo has made tough choices to combat the ongoing bear market.
A Harsh Environment For Crypto Miners
Like other crypto miners, Argo faces challenges in its operations as the operating environment becomes harsher. Crypto miners, in general, had a hard time in 2022, as elevated electricity costs, plunging crypto prices, and intensified mining difficulty adversely affected their earnings.
The allegations against Argo Blockchain could damage the company’s dwindling reputation if proven true. This assumption is especially true if investors can prove that they were misled and purchased stock at an inflated price.
Consequently, it could result in financial compensation for investors and a possible reprimand from regulators.