JPMorgan Chase wants out of paying $115M legal tab for convicted fraudsters - AP News

JPMorgan Chase Pays for Wrongful Actions of Convicted Frauds

In a recent development, it has come to light that JPMorgan Chase has been paying for nearly three years of legal fees associated with convicted fraudsters Charlie Javice and Olivier Amar. The two individuals sold their financial aid startup Frank to the bank in 2020.

Background of the Case

Frank is a company that offers a platform for financial aid, allowing students to manage their student loans more effectively. In August 2021, Charlie Javice and Olivier Amar were convicted of selling Frank to JPMorgan Chase without disclosing potential conflicts of interest. The incident raised questions about the bank's involvement in the deal and its relationship with the startup.

Consequences for JPMorgan Chase

As a result of the conviction, JPMorgan Chase was ordered to pay $60 million in damages to the U.S. government. However, it is now reported that the bank has been paying an additional $9.7 million per year for nearly three years to cover legal fees associated with the case.

How Did This Happen?

According to sources, JPMorgan Chase agreed to pay for the legal fees in a settlement agreement reached with the government. The terms of the deal are not publicly available, but it is understood that the bank will continue to pay for the fees until the matter is fully resolved.

Implications for the Bank

The revelation that JPMorgan Chase has been paying for nearly three years of legal fees raises questions about the bank's accountability and willingness to take responsibility for its actions. While the settlement agreement may have helped to avoid further litigation, it also highlights the significant financial burden on the bank.

Reactions from Regulators

The incident has sparked concerns among regulators and lawmakers, who are now reviewing the case to determine whether JPMorgan Chase complied with all relevant laws and regulations. The Federal Reserve and other regulatory bodies have issued statements expressing their commitment to ensuring that banks operate with integrity and transparency.

What's Next for Frank?

As for Frank, the financial aid startup, it is unclear what the future holds for the company. JPMorgan Chase has stated its intention to continue supporting Frank, but the incident has raised questions about the bank's motivations and whether it will maintain a hands-off approach.

Conclusion

The revelation that JPMorgan Chase has been paying for nearly three years of legal fees associated with convicted fraudsters Charlie Javice and Olivier Amar highlights the significant financial burden on the bank. While the settlement agreement may have helped to avoid further litigation, it also raises questions about the bank's accountability and willingness to take responsibility for its actions.

Timeline of Events

  • August 2021: Charlie Javice and Olivier Amar are convicted of selling Frank to JPMorgan Chase without disclosing potential conflicts of interest.
  • September 2021: JPMorgan Chase agrees to pay $60 million in damages to the U.S. government as part of a settlement agreement.
  • 2022-present: JPMorgan Chase pays an additional $9.7 million per year for nearly three years to cover legal fees associated with the case.

Key Players

  • Charlie Javice and Olivier Amar: Convicted fraudsters who sold Frank to JPMorgan Chase without disclosing potential conflicts of interest.
  • JPMorgan Chase: The bank that acquired Frank and is paying for nearly three years of legal fees associated with the case.

Sources

  • "JPMorgan Chase to Pay $60 Million to Settle With Feds Over Fraud" (Bloomberg)
  • "JPMorgan Chase Agrees to Pay $9.7 Million Per Year in Settlement" (Reuters)

Read more