FTX founder SBF is on trial this week, with former colleagues set to become key witnesses.

Sam Bankman-Fried, the founder of FTX(SBF), will stand trial this week. The once globally renowned cryptocurrency exchange is accused of misappropriating billions of dollars in customer funds. During the six-week trial, the prosecution will attempt to reveal the details of FTX's alleged fraud through various testimonies, internal documents, and emails.

The most compelling evidence may come from SBF's former colleagues and friends. This includes several former FTX executives who have reached plea agreements with the Department of Justice and will testify against the former crypto tycoon. Key witnesses include:

Caroline Ellison

As the former CEO of Alameda Research, Ellison is one of the most prominent witnesses. She had a romantic relationship with SBF and is considered one of the few who truly understand the inner workings of FTX. Ellison has admitted to fraud charges and signed a plea agreement. Her knowledge of the alleged sharing of customer funds between FTX and Alameda may become a key point in the trial.

Nishad Singh

Singh previously served as the engineering director of FTX and was one of three individuals who controlled the keys to FTX's matching engine. He was aware of FTX lending customer funds to Alameda and has pleaded guilty to multiple criminal charges.

Gary Wang

Wang is a co-founder of Alameda Research and FTX, having served as the Chief Technology Officer for both companies. He is considered a key player in FTX and has pleaded guilty to related charges.

In addition to these former colleagues, the prosecution also plans to summon other witnesses, including financial market regulatory investigation experts and university professors. They will provide expert opinions on issues such as FTX's financial condition and client fund management.

The defense also listed several potential witnesses, including corporate consultants, data analysis experts, and university professors. They may testify about FTX's software infrastructure, the complexities of operating a cryptocurrency exchange, and other related aspects.

In addition, there are some former executives closely related to SBF who have not been publicly listed as potential witnesses, including former co-CEO of Alameda Research Sam Trabucco and former Chief Compliance Officer of FTX Dan Friedberg.

This highly anticipated trial will reveal the inside story of the FTX collapse, and it remains to be seen whether SBF can persuade the jury to grant him freedom. Regardless of the outcome, this trial will become an important milestone in the history of the cryptocurrency industry's development.