The developers did refer to Secp256r1 just before the launch, albeit rather obliquely. The main thing to note is that they are students at Bristol University. Professor Nigel Smart, who is a world leader in applied cryptography, is also there and has been helping them behind the scenes.

There is something odd as to the way the developers are perceived and as to the way Maxcoin has turned out so far. The timing of the rehashed 'backdoor' issue coincides with the funding of a Maxcoin project by StartCoin. Perhaps it is FUD to push down the price so people can buy in low. Max Keiser has said that the StartCoin funding should lead to an imminent boost to Maxcoin's Market Cap.