Epstein Files: Coinbase Neutrino Controversy and XRP Mentions
2026-02-03
The Epstein Files have resurfaced after emails emerged discussing a major Coinbase controversy in 2019. The emails referenced the acquisition of Neutrino, mentions of XRP, and comments linked to the CEO of Kraken. While the documents do not show Jeffrey Epstein's direct involvement in the crypto industry, they illustrate how major crypto issues made it onto the radar of global financial elites at a time when the industry's reputation was under scrutiny.
Key Takeaways
- The Epstein emails are informational and are not evidence of involvement in the crypto crisis
- The Coinbase Neutrino controversy in 2019 happened amid heightened scrutiny of XRP
- These documents highlight the reputational impact and public perception in the crypto industry

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Epstein Emails and the Coinbase Neutrino Controversy of 2019
The email included in the Epstein Files is dated March 12, 2019, and was sent by Richard Kahn, a financial consultant who frequently shared analysis on major financial issues. The email's subject highlighted what was described as a major controversy involving Coinbase and the acquisition of blockchain analytics firm Neutrino.
At the time, Coinbase faced heavy criticism after it was revealed that Neutrino's founders had previously worked at Hacking Team, a developer of surveillance tools associated with human rights violations. The crypto community's reaction was swift and emotional, with accusations that Coinbase had neglected user privacy values.
That wave of criticism spawned boycott campaigns like DeleteCoinbase and sparked wide discussions about ethics in the crypto industry. Coinbase later responded by stating that the Neutrino employees linked to Hacking Team would leave the company.
In the context of the Epstein Files, this email does not indicate directives or Epstein's personal interest. The document simply reflects that major crypto controversies at the time were considered relevant to monitor by influential financial circles.
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Mention of XRP and Public Perception Dynamics
The Neutrino controversy occurred just weeks after Coinbase listed XRP for trading. This naturally increased scrutiny on Coinbase's governance standards, given XRP's long history as an asset that sparked debate over centralization and ties to financial institutions.
In that sensitive climate, various narratives developed. The mention of XRP in the email reflects a market atmosphere filled with suspicion and speculation, even though there is no strong evidence linking XRP directly to the Neutrino acquisition.
Many reports at the time combined several issues at once, from privacy and surveillance to corporate influence in crypto. The Epstein Files show how such information circulated among elites, even when factual links were not established.
It is important to emphasize that there is no evidence showing Ripple or XRP's involvement in the Neutrino controversy. The mention more accurately reflects public perception and the fast-moving information environment in the crypto industry.
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Impact on Coinbase’s Reputation and Lessons for the Crypto Industry
For Coinbase, the Neutrino controversy was a reminder that reputation in the crypto industry is fragile. Business decisions perceived to conflict with community values can trigger wide reactions in a short time.
The email received by Epstein is only a small part of a larger picture. Other documents show that Epstein often received updates about major technology and finance issues, including Bitcoin and early crypto infrastructure. However, investigations did not find a connection between Epstein's criminal activity and the crypto industry.
For the industry as a whole, the case underscores the importance of transparency, open communication, and reputational awareness. Crypto is no longer a closed ecosystem but part of a global conversation involving finance, politics, and technology.
For users and investors, understanding this context helps to view crypto news more balancedly and avoid drawing overly broad conclusions.
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Conclusion
The Epstein Files reveal how the Coinbase Neutrino controversy in 2019, the mention of XRP, and comments from crypto industry figures became part of a global information flow. The emails do not prove Epstein's involvement, but they highlight the significant attention paid to reputation issues in crypto.
This case is a reminder that public perception can form quickly amid interconnected information. A critical, fact-based approach remains important so that crypto developments are understood proportionally and fairly.
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FAQ
Was Jeffrey Epstein directly involved in the Coinbase Neutrino controversy?
No. The documents only show that he received informational emails, without evidence of direct involvement.
Why was XRP mentioned in the email that appeared in the Epstein Files?
Because XRP had recently been listed on Coinbase during that period and was under public scrutiny.
Is there any connection between Ripple and Neutrino?
There is no evidence indicating a direct link between Ripple and Neutrino.
What was the main impact of the Neutrino controversy on Coinbase?
Reputational pressure and wide criticism from the crypto community related to ethics and privacy issues.
Why are the Epstein Files relevant to the crypto industry?
Because they show how major crypto issues can enter the radar of global financial elites.
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