Hi everyone, not an expat here but figured this is a good place to seek guidance.
I am a developer that had recently begun my career and I have recently joined a startup crypto trading firm as a junior developer, with a non-compete clause against crypto trading firms without explicit geographical restrictions, with a portion of the salary to be paid in the enforcement period of the clause probably as consideration.
Within my first few days, I received an offer from one of the hiring processes in my job search in the same batch, which I found to be much more attractive, being a non-crypto trading firm. Consequently, I resigned from said crypto trading firm and gave ample notice as per the employment contract, knowing that I am not joining a competitor, and knowing that I had definitely not gained any trade secrets nor confidential information, especially so from a startup with 0 code and infrastructure, at least to my knowledge.
However, they are now forcing me to reveal my next employer on the grounds of the non-compete. As they previously seemed like nice people, I have revealed and assured that the new employer is not a crypto trading firm, in hopes of a friendly resolution. They, however, did not seem to be content with that and are citing the clause and legality to force me to disclose. My reason not to disclose is that I am afraid, given the quick change of attitude that they might simply be demanding it just so they can reach out to the new employer to affect my offer.
Any advice or past experiences would be greatly appreciated!