Core Argument - The article discusses the legal challenges faced by GMO Internet's CEO Masatoshi Kumagai, particularly regarding his involvement in the company's unsuccessful Bitcoin mining operations and the subsequent lawsuit filed by Whinstone for breach of contract [3][5][6]. Company Performance - GMO Internet has struggled to achieve profitability in the Bitcoin mining sector, with significant losses reported, including JPY 35.5 billion (approximately $320 million) in 2018 due to failures in its Swiss mining operations [6][9]. - The company has faced multiple setbacks in its cryptocurrency ventures, including a failed stablecoin launch that resulted in class action lawsuits from investors [8]. Legal Proceedings - A U.S. court has ordered Kumagai to be deposed, rejecting GMO's claim that he is protected under the "apex doctrine," which typically shields senior executives from depositions if they are not involved in operational details [2][7]. - The judge's decision indicates that Kumagai has significant knowledge of the case, as evidenced by numerous emails that contradict GMO's portrayal of his involvement [7][6]. Operational Challenges - Whinstone, which continues to operate the mining facility after GMO's withdrawal, claims that GMO failed to invest in necessary maintenance, contributing to the operational struggles [3][4]. - The decline in cryptocurrency prices and an increase in global hash rates have negatively impacted GMO's in-house mining profitability, leading to extraordinary losses and a halt in the development of mining machines [9].