Uniswap Faces Backlash for Blocking Memecoins and Cryptocurrency Derivatives, DeFi Community Reacts

By 0xGorki 05/25/23 4:57 AM

Uniswap has faced criticism as users reported being unable to trade the memecoin token Ben (BEN) on its platform on May 25th. However, the truth behind this issue reveals that it is only the front end of the Uniswap website that prevents users from conducting transactions, while the fundamental functionality of linking to the token’s smart contract remains intact.

The list of tokens subject to Uniswap’s scrutiny includes memecoins like Ben (BEN), Grump Cat (GRUMP), Gucci (GUCCI), as well as several cryptocurrencies masquerading as established projects such as DYDX and ENS DAO. Notably, it also includes a series of derivative tokens based on major coins like BTC and ETH, as well as real-world securities and assets.

Seems like Uniswap is pulling a OpenSea https://t.co/iwKIB2Bjdd pic.twitter.com/Qv3Fo4kUVl

— Steven (@Dogetoshi) May 24, 2023

Many speculate that Uniswap maintains this list to avoid potential legal risks in the United States, where the DEX is registered as a company. U.S. financial authorities, particularly the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), have taken legal actions against numerous cryptocurrency projects, often arguing their securities nature. Consequently, Uniswap’s proactive blocking of derivative tokens linked to the U.S. securities market could be seen as a precautionary measure.

However, despite these considerations, many investors have criticized Uniswap for blocking even trending memecoins like BEN, which pose no apparent legal risks. Some argue that Uniswap’s actions contradict the decentralized spirit that the platform aims to represent.

In the past, Uniswap, along with other DeFi applications such as Balancer and Aave, has also blocked addresses associated with Tornado Cash, an Ethereum transaction mixer platform that was blacklisted by the U.S. Department of Justice. Similarly, OpenSea and Infura have restricted users from certain countries facing U.S. sanctions.

The incident raises questions about the delicate balance between compliance with regulatory requirements and maintaining the decentralized nature of DEXs. While it is crucial for platforms like Uniswap to navigate legal frameworks, it is equally important to preserve the principles of decentralization and open access that underpin the cryptocurrency industry. Finding a middle ground that satisfies both regulatory concerns and user expectations will likely be an ongoing challenge for decentralized exchanges in the future.