Sam Bankman-Fried’s Appeal Hearing Set for Nov. 4 — What’s Next for the Former FTX CEO

[cryptoenthusiast]

Former FTX chief Sam “SBF” Bankman-Fried, who is serving a 25-year federal sentence, will get his first major day in court since sentencing when the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit hears oral arguments on Nov. 4.

Why This Hearing Matters

Appeal Filed: SBF’s legal team filed a notice of appeal in April 2024, arguing the trial was unfair, claiming he was “never presumed innocent” and that prosecutors falsely portrayed FTX customer funds as permanently lost.

Possible Outcomes: A successful appeal could mean a new trial or a revised sentence, while a rejection would leave the current 25-year term in place.

From Bail to Federal Prison

FTX Collapse: The exchange imploded in November 2022, leading to a high-profile New York trial in late 2023.

Bail Revoked: Initially out on bond at his parents’ California home, SBF was jailed in August 2023 after allegations of witness intimidation.

Current Status: Since March 2024 he has been housed at FCI Terminal Island in California, with an expected release date of Oct. 25, 2044.

Key Figures Around the Case

Caroline Ellison (ex-Alameda CEO): pleaded guilty, sentenced to 2 years, release expected March 2026.

Gary Wang & Nishad Singh: cooperated and were sentenced to time served.

Ryan Salame: after a failed attempt to withdraw his plea, received 7+ years and reported to prison in Oct 2024.

Political Angle & Speculation

Pardon Rumors: Some reports suggest SBF could seek a presidential pardon. Early in 2025 President Donald Trump pardoned Silk Road founder Ross Ulbricht, fueling speculation, though no official indication exists that SBF will receive similar consideration.

What to Watch Next

November 4 Appeal Hearing – arguments before the Second Circuit could set the tone for a possible retrial or sentence change.

Remaining FTX-Linked Cases – including unresolved matters tied to other executives and partners.

Regulatory Fallout – the FTX collapse continues to influence crypto exchange oversight and investor-protection policy worldwide.

Bottom line: Sam Bankman-Fried’s legal battle is far from over. The November hearing could be the pivotal moment determining whether his 25-year sentence stands—or the case heads back to court for another round.