Former FTX CEO's Unconventional Path Examined in Michael Lewis' Upcoming Book
Summary:
In his upcoming book, author Michael Lewis offers a detailed portrait of former FTX CEO, Sam Bankman-Fried (SBF), delving into his unique career approach, his rise to becoming a billionaire and the subsequent downfall of his crypto empire. The book highlights SBF's habit of playing video games during interviews, frequent last-minute cancellations of public appearances, and other unorthodox behaviors. With coinciding release date and the commencement of SBF's criminal trial in New York, the book is expected to provide further insights into the life and actions of the former crypto tycoon.
Noted author Michael Lewis presents an intriguing depiction of Sam Bankman-Fried (SBF), former CEO of FTX, in his soon-to-be-published book. In 'Going Infinite: The Rise and Fall of a New Tycoon,' an excerpt of which appeared in Washington Post on the 1st of October, chronicles SBF's interactions with the press and high-profile figures before FTX's downfall and his consequential criminal charges in the U.S.
Lewis narrates how Bankman-Fried would habitually play online video games during interviews, projecting an air of indifference towards people including Vogue's editor-in-chief Anna Wintour. “Sam's need for video games during interactions wasn't ill-intentioned,” Lewis mentions regarding SBF's chat with Wintour. “Considering his newfound role as the world's most fascinating young billionaire, participating in mind-numbing activities seemed pivotal for him apart from his normal thought process."
SBF's net worth once hit a staggering $22.5 billion, with a speed of wealth accumulation surpassed only by Mark Zuckerberg. This was before his cryptocurrency venture collapsed, landing him in current predicament, documented by Lewis.
The author further mentions Natalie Tien, who ascended as the head of FTX’s public relations and SBF’s chief scheduler. She recounted how the ex-CEO would often cancel public engagements at the last minute without any visible cause. A particular instance of this was his last-minute denial of his guest spot at the Met Gala, an opportunity that purportedly came through Wintour’s interview.
“SBF treated his scheduler as mere suggestions than concrete obligations,” states the book. “His acceptance of an event merely indicated a possible probability of his availability, and as the event neared, he would constantly re-evaluate the worthiness of his participation until the deciding moment."
Lewis also highlights SBF's rare public appearances in formal attire, a deviation from his usual T-shirt and shorts, for instances like testifying before the U.S. House Financial Services Committee in December 2021 and meeting Senator Mitch McConnell.
The book, set to release on Oct. 3, will coincide with the commencement of jury selection for SBF’s impending criminal trial in New York. Amidst court developments, a plethora of media including podcasts, books, and news pieces are shedding light on Bankman-Fried’s journey pre and post FTX's collapse. An interview in '60 Minutes' disclosed SBF's hushed plans to discourage Donald Trump from running for president again, citing the potential danger to elections and democracy. On October 4, SBF will present himself in a New York court, facing seven fraud charges relating to FTX and Alameda Research, to which he maintains his innocence. The trial is set to span over the course of November.
Published At
10/2/2023 7:19:07 PM
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