Tigran Gambaryan Departs Binance After Ordeal in Nigerian Detention
Tigran Gambaryan, a former U.S. federal agent who led Binance’s financial crime compliance division, has officially stepped down from his role at the crypto exchange, ending a tumultuous four-year tenure marked by legal battles and international controversy.
A Legacy of Enforcement in Crypto
Gambaryan joined Binance in 2021, bringing with him extensive experience from his previous role as an IRS investigator. At the time, Binance lacked a dedicated investigations unit, but under his leadership, the company assembled a 100-person global compliance team composed of former prosecutors and federal agents.
Arrest and Imprisonment in Nigeria
In 2024, Gambaryan's career took a dramatic turn when Nigerian authorities detained him due to alleged violations tied to Binance’s operations in the country. He spent eight months in prison before being released on humanitarian grounds following pressure from bipartisan U.S. lawmakers.
He was eventually cleared of all charges, although Nigeria continued to pursue penalties against the exchange itself.
A Message of Resolve
Upon announcing his departure, Gambaryan shared reflections on his experience and the growing need for professionals who can navigate the intersection of technology and law enforcement.
There is a growing need for trusted, experienced operators, people who understand how to translate between technology, enforcement, and compliance.
Tigran Gambaryan
He expressed a willingness to serve his country again if called upon, and emphasized his commitment to continuing his work at the nexus of digital finance and regulation.
That’s where I intend to continue making a difference.
Tigran Gambaryan
The Road Ahead
Gambaryan’s exit signals a pivotal moment for Binance, as the company continues to grapple with regulatory scrutiny across multiple jurisdictions. His departure may also reflect the broader challenges faced by global crypto firms in aligning with evolving international compliance standards.