Haliey Welch, popularly recognized as “Hawk Tuah,”has recently discussed the controversy surrounding her involvement with the $HAWK token cryptocurrency. Following a dramatic decline in the token’s value, the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) initiated an investigation that significantly affected investors’ finances.
In a statement to TMZ, Haliey Welch confirmed that the SEC has concluded its investigation without any repercussions for her.
Welch remarked, “For the past few months, I’ve been cooperating with all the authorities and attorneys, and finally, that work is complete.”
Her attorney, James Sallah, provided further insights, explaining:
“The SEC closed the investigation without making any findings against, or seeking any monetary sanctions from Haliey. Because they did not bring any action against her, there are no restrictions on what she can do in regards to crypto or securities in the future.”
Although the SEC has refrained from commenting further on the situation, Sallah confirmed that Welch has severed her ties with the LLC responsible for the $HAWK token and will no longer engage in its promotion or support.
Insights into Haliey Welch’s Crypto Controversy and Upcoming Documentary
Gaining fame in June 2024 from a viral TikTok video, Haliey Welch launched the $HAWK token in December 2024. Initially, the token experienced remarkable success, reaching a market capitalization of $490 million before suffering an over 90% decrease almost instantaneously. This sudden downturn resulted in significant financial losses for many investors and prompted a lawsuit against both the creators of the coin and the associated companies, as reported by the Daily Mail.
A legal case has been filed against overHere Ltd., its founder Clinton So, social media influencer Alex Larson Schultz, and the Tuah The Moon Foundation. The lawsuit alleges that the token’s launch lacked the necessary approvals. Investors engaged in a pre-sale that amassed $2.8 million while valuing the overall coins at $16.69 million, with plaintiffs now seeking over $150,000 in damages. Notably, Haliey Welch was not named in this lawsuit.
With the SEC’s decision to close the investigation, Welch is relieved from any potential penalties or restrictions regarding her future involvement in cryptocurrency dealings. Consequently, the SEC has heightened scrutiny on cryptocurrency projects promoted by influencers and public figures.
In light of these developments, Haliey Welch has expressed her intent to pursue new projects outside the crypto sphere. She stated she feels “happy to be starting back up again,”emphasizing her plans no longer include cryptocurrency ventures.
One of her notable upcoming projects is a documentary titled “Hawk Tuah,”produced by Bungalow Media + Entertainment—a company recognized for its Emmy-winning productions. As cited by Deadline, this documentary aims to chronicle Welch’s unexpected ascent to internet stardom following her viral video, alongside the broader cultural implications of the “Hawk Tuah”phenomenon. It will include interviews, behind-the-scenes footage, and an exploration of how a single viral moment can spark a global trend.
On March 25, Welch addressed the rampant rumors surrounding her absence through an engaging Instagram reel. The comedic video begins with her appearing to be asleep, then transitions to a graveyard setting marked with a cross inscribed “RIP Haliey Welch,”referencing various online speculations about her wellbeing.
In a humorous twist, she dramatizes exaggerated scenarios including pregnancy and incarceration, both of which had become trending topics in recent months. The video culminates with her friend and podcast co-host, Chelsea Bradford, waking her up, suggesting they had activities to resume. Welch’s caption humorously inquires, “What’d I miss?”
Through these developments, Welch continues to navigate her newfound fame and controversies, shifting towards new horizons while leaving the tumultuous world of cryptocurrency behind.