Bitrace, a blockchain analytics firm, has raised a red flag regarding potential rugpull activities associated with the Hong Kong-based exchange, JPEX.

These allegations come on the heels of existing charges implicating the exchange in a money laundering scheme, with a staggering flow of more than 190 million TRC20-USDT tokens passing through its platform over the past 20 months.

The situation has further escalated with the detainment of an internet celebrity for endorsing JPEX and the accumulation of over 83 complaints, amounting to approximately HK$34 million.

Bitrace's recent disclosure adds a layer of complexity and risk to an already precarious scenario, leaving investors and regulatory authorities grappling with multifaceted challenges.

The substantial presence of TRC20-USDT tokens on the platform raises unsettling questions about potential involvement in a wider web of financial crime.

In response to these growing concerns, the Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) has issued a stern advisory, urging the exercise of utmost caution when engaging with JPEX, especially concerning deposit and withdrawal activities.

Fast-forwarding to 19 September, Hong Kong regulators announced their intention to bolster regulatory oversight of digital assets in the wake of the arrests of six individuals on allegations of fraud linked to the JPEX exchange.

The SFC disclosed a staggering count of over 1,400 complaints lodged against JPEX, with reported losses surpassing 1 billion Hong Kong dollars ($127.9 million).

Further compounding the issue, numerous investors expressed grievances about their inability to withdraw virtual assets from JPEX accounts and reported discrepancies in their account balances, which had been tampered with without their consent.

In response to these developments, Hong Kong's Chief Executive, John Lee, has affirmed the government's commitment to enhancing investor education and directing investors towards exchanges regulated by the SFC.

Over the past weekend, the situation reached a critical juncture as JPEX announced the temporary suspension of its operations.

JEPX Applying For Deregistration In Australia?

Jieyi Chen, the director of JP-EX Crypto Asset Platform PTY LTD (commonly known as JPEX), has submitted an application for deregistration to the Australian Securities and Investment Commission (ASIC).

The application asserts several key points.

First and foremost, JPEX attests that all of its company members are in unanimous agreement regarding the decision to pursue deregistration.

This signifies a collective accord within the organisation regarding the cessation of its operations.

Furthermore, JPEX has affirmed that it is no longer actively engaged in business activities, effectively signaling the cessation of its commercial operations.

Crucially, the filing underscores the financial aspect of this transition.

JPEX explicitly states that its current assets do not exceed the sum of $1,000 Australian dollars.

This financial snapshot underscores the limited financial standing of the company at this juncture, further underscoring its rationale for deregistration.

Lastly, JPEX has asserted that it carries no outstanding liabilities, effectively signaling a clean financial slate.

This absence of financial obligations aligns with the broader context of the company's decision to pursue deregistration.

So What Is Deregistration And What Happens When A Company Deregisters?

It is a formal process by which a company or organisation officially cancels its registration with a government authority or regulatory body.

It typically involves notifying the relevant government agency or authority that the company or organisation no longer wishes to operate or conduct business.

Deregistration is a legal process that requires formal documentation and adherence to regulatory requirements.

Once a company or organisation is deregistered, it typically ceases to exist as a legal entity, and its name and registration details are removed from public records.

This means it can no longer engage in business activities, enter into contracts, or incur liabilities in its name.