Bankman-Fried Faces Key Choice on Testifying as Fraud Trial Reaches Climax

Sam Bankman-Fried has to decide whether to testify in his own defense at the FTX fraud trial this week. His testimony could help explain his actions, but also opens him up to extensive cross-examination.

Prosecutors allege Bankman-Fried allowed his crypto firm Alameda Research to misuse $8 billion in FTX customer funds before its collapse. Former executives testified supporting this.

Bankman-Fried's defense claims he acted in "good faith" and assets were available to pay back any borrowed funds. But not testifying risks leaving accusations unanswered.

The jury must find prosecutors proved beyond reasonable doubt Bankman-Fried's intent to commit fraud. His testimony could help or hurt this.

If convicted, Bankman-Fried's lawyers may appeal based on his mental state, citing reduced access to his Adderall prescription while in custody.