Blockchain Law: Anatomy of staking contracts
Overview This article explains the basics of crypto staking and key elements of staking contracts between staking service providers and token holders in Canada and internationally. Basics Staking promotes the informational integrity of blockchain networks by appealing to the self-interest...
CSA enhances regulation of unregistered crypto asset trading platforms
On February 22, 2023, the Canadian Securities Administrators (the “CSA”) published Staff Notice 21-332: Crypto Asset Trading Platforms: Pre-Registration Undertakings Changes to Enhance Canadian Investor Protection (the “Staff Notice”), which marks another positive step towards clarity in regulation of the...
The Celsius bankruptcy and application of the bad debt rules
Many cryptocurrency lenders have declared bankruptcy. These loss events are indicators of the significant losses the cryptocurrency market has experienced this year. For investors who have suffered, an important consideration is how to capitalize on these losses. Accordingly, this article...
LBRY decision spells warning for blockchain developers
The United States District Court of New Hampshire recently released its decision in Securities and Exchange Commission v. LBRY, Inc.[1] This case carries significance for blockchain communities in that it is the first successful enforcement action by the SEC against...
The potential blockchain revolution in asset securitization
Blockchain technology is rapidly evolving and continues to transform many aspects of the financial services industry. One such area is securitization – where blockchain can significantly enhance transaction transparency while reducing operational inefficiencies and costs in the securitization process. This...
What exactly are carbon tokens?
In this short piece, we will examine carbon tokens: a tool of increasing relevance in the battle to address climate change. How are carbon instruments typically structured and traded? In the fight to address climate change, businesses and individuals have...
Roadmapping your new token: Key considerations in token development
This article assumes the reader has some foundational knowledge regarding blockchain technology and digital assets. Crypto assets have become wildly popular in recent years and they do not give the impression of slowing down. According to a New York Times...
New house on the block(chain)
Introduction Would you trade your home for a work of art? An art critic might consider it. But what if it wasn’t art you were trading your home for, but Bitcoin? Like artwork, Bitcoin’s value is largely dependent on the...
Decentralized finance: Regulation, growth, and legal enforcement
Decentralized finance (“DeFi”) is a financial alternative offered through various cryptocurrency platforms where liquidity pools are available to investors without the need for third-party lending institutions. In the years to come, the nascent DeFi industry may shape, transform and even...
Initial Coin and Token Offerings may engage securities laws
With the rise in popularity of cryptocurrency, many small fintech businesses have begun developing their own coins and tokens. This has led to a rise in Initial Coin Offerings (“ICOs”) and Initial Token Offerings (“ITOs”) as a means to raise...
