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Facebook’s cryptocurrency looks a lot like another the SEC is trying to stop

The SEC suit against cryptocurrency hopeful Kik adds to already considerable regulatory uncertainty for tokens

The Facebook social media logo on display at the Viva Technology show in Porte de Versailles in May
The Facebook social media logo on display at the Viva Technology show in Porte de Versailles in May Photo: Getty Images

A bold plan to launch a new cryptocurrency by Facebook and partners looks a lot like the plans of another firm the Securities and Exchange Commission is now suing to stop.

Libra is a “global, digitally native, reserve-backed cryptocurrency built on the foundation of blockchain technology,” according to the Switzerland-based not-for-profit membership organization formed to run the initiative, Libra Association. The Libra Association says it will “be raising money in a private placement to help jumpstart the ecosystem and drive adoption.”

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