CFTC: Cryptocurrency scams contributed to an increase in fines

The Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), U.S. derivatives regulator, reported an annual increase in fines as a result of cryptocurrencies and trading scams. Notably, cases filed related to spoofing, a form of market manipulation that distorts prices, quintupled any previous year. CFTC Chairman Christopher Giancarlo said, "By any measure, enforcement during this last year has been among the most vigorous in the history of the CFTC". The Securities and Exchange Commission has yet to post their 2018 annual results for enforcement. (Source: WSJ)