Toronto-based Bitcoin mining company Bitfarms has announced the termination of its interim president and chief executive officer (CEO), Geoffrey Morphy after he filed a $27 million lawsuit against the company. 

According to Bloomberg, the lawsuit alleges breach of contract and “wrongful termination” and seeks compensatory and punitive damages. Bitfarm believes the claims are without merit and intends to defend itself.

Geoffrey Morphy, who assumed both leadership positions in late 2022, was initially slated to leave the company pending the appointment of his successor. However, following the lawsuit, Bitfarms immediately terminated Morphy’s employment, and he no longer serves as a company director.

Bitfarms has named Nicolas Bonta, the company’s chairman and co-founder, interim president, and CEO, while the search for a permanent replacement is underway. The search is nearing completion, with Bitfarms anticipating the appointment of a new CEO within the next few weeks.

Earlier in March, Bitfarms issued a press release emphasizing its commitment to meeting the growing investor interest in Bitcoin and mining worldwide. The company expressed its dedication to expanding operations to drive higher returns and maximize shareholder value.

Chairman Nicolas Bonta expressed gratitude for Morphy’s leadership and contributions, noting his instrumental role in modernizing Bitfarms’ management infrastructure, expanding its mining portfolio, and facilitating international diversification. 

Notably, Morphy oversaw the company’s expansion into the United States, Paraguay, and Argentina, as well as its Bitcoin mining operations in Quebec. According to the Bitcoin mining company’s press release, Morphy’s efforts have positioned the company for future growth and a seamless transition in leadership.

Reflecting on his tenure, Morphy expressed pride in the accomplishments achieved as a team, including operational expansion, strengthening the balance sheet, and setting the stage for significant growth. He expressed confidence in the management team’s ability to achieve Bitfarms’ growth targets for 2024.

The Bitcoin mining industry has been grappling with several challenges in 2024, including elevated energy prices, intensifying competition, and the impact of the Halving event software code update in April. This update significantly reduced the main revenue stream for mining companies.

Although Bitcoin’s price surged in the first quarter, the production of new coins declined due to the surge in mining difficulty, which measures the computing power required to create new Bitcoin. Consequently, Bitfarms’ shares have declined by approximately 40% this year, with the stock closing at $1.73 on Friday.

As of press time, Bitcoin is trading at $62,700, having rebounded from the $60,000 support level that prevented further price declines in recent days.  

Featured image from Shutterstock, chart from TradingView.com 

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