Fidelity Pays $500,000 In Cali... Note
NewsBTC

Fidelity Pays $500,000 In California Crypto Withdrawal Settlement

California has reached a $500,000 settlement with Fidelity Digital Asset Services regarding restrictions on customer crypto withdrawals. Attorney General Rob Bonta announced the settlement, which addresses historical limitations preventing some users from moving purchased coins to their own wallets. California's commodity rules require physical delivery of assets, interpreting cryptocurrency delivery as the ability for buyers to transfer the asset away from the dealer. Fidelity stated it was awaiting regulatory approval from the New York Department of Financial Services before enabling external withdrawals. This approval was received in April 2025. California views the prior restrictions as unlawful, a stance Fidelity disputes, arguing their conduct did not breach state law. The investigation is connected to a prior case involving Robinhood Crypto, indicating a broader regulatory discussion. This settlement highlights the ongoing debate about whether customers paying for cryptocurrencies gain true control or merely an internal account balance. While the monetary amount is modest, the principle of customer control over digital assets is significant. Investors are advised to verify withdrawal availability and account terms across different Fidelity products.
CdXz5zHNQW_kTVZfkJbSb.png