The Federal Court of the Western District of Washington has approved the payment by the cryptocurrency exchange Binance of $4.3 billion to the US Department of Justice. This decision is part of a guilty plea agreement signed by the exchange, under which Binance has committed to taking significant measures to comply with US laws. The judge emphasized that the purpose of the sentence is to prevent similar violations in the future and protect the interests of clients. Currently, the court has not yet determined the appointment of an independent monitor to oversee the exchange's activities for five years.

In November 2023, Binance admitted guilt in violating sanctions and anti-money laundering laws, agreeing to pay a fine. The platform's founder Changpeng Zhao also pleaded guilty to violating the Bank Secrecy Act and agreed to step down as CEO, with a fine of $50 million. Additionally, he posted bail of $175 million to secure his freedom pending sentencing. Zhao's case is scheduled for April, and he could face up to 18 months in prison.