Blockchain Resources
News Roundup: Blockchain and Cryptocurrency Activity and COVID-19 Pandemic 4/8/2020
We are living in unprecedented times. Every industry, every profession, every nation has now felt the impacts of the global COVID-19 pandemic. Even though many of us have more time on our hands due to mandated or self-imposed isolation, there still aren’t enough hours in the day to keep up on all of the news. Our Blockchain Advisory and Cryptocurrency Disputes, Investigations and Litigation (CDI&L) team has been watching the news closely as it relates to cryptocurrency and blockchain opportunities and deployments. While not all encompassing, the round-up below highlights some of the most interesting industry news we’re seeing to date.
Like with all other disruptive technologies, in blockchain and cryptocurrency, the leapfrog game of new challenges, new advancements and new laws, will continue as the space matures.
Federal Cryptocurrency Regulation Introduced for 2020 1/15/2020
As 2019 came to a close, and pundits looked back on the tumult of regulatory changes that shaped the last decade, lawmakers slipped in a few final bills. One, introduced in late December by U.S. Congressman Paul Gosar from Arizona, has the potential to make waves in the financial world. The Crypto-Currency Act of 2020 was drafted to add clarity to the cryptocurrency industry and provide a clear framework for crypto regulations in the U.S.
The Most Interesting Cryptocurrency Stories to Close out 2019 1/2/2020
Cryptocurrency news heated up at the end of 2019. The second half of the year also brought a wave of new litigations around cryptocurrency misuse, fraud and theft. I expect we’ll see even more of this in 2020, along with a surge of interesting news. Industry watchers can expect a range of cases, from the state level, all the way up to far-reaching cross-border matters, as criminals find new ways to leverage crypto markets to further their malicious interests.
2020 Forecast: Expect Landmark Changes in E-Discovery, Data Privacy and Investigations 12/23/2019
Across our practice areas, we asked our experts to share their predictions for what will shape legal, compliance and information governance in the coming year. Below is a roundup—across new laws, emerging technology and key industries—of what they expect will make the biggest impact to businesses worldwide.
Cryptocurrency Trends to Watch 10/21/2019
Today, there are more than 2,200 types of cryptocurrency in the global markets. An estimated 34.6 million digital wallets are in use. Between new client matters and a gripping news cycle relating to cryptocurrency regulations, scams and investigations, our team has identified several key trends impacting the industry.
Hacking, Extortion and Stolen Coins: Unraveling a Major Cryptocurrency Breach 9/30/2019
When one of the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchanges was breached in May of this year, few in the industry were surprised. Cryptocurrency exchanges have long been appealing targets of malicious actors looking to steal currency and personal information. But this recent breach, which will potentially impact tens of thousands of cryptocurrency investors around the world, is particularly unique. The series of events that has unfolded in its aftermath serves as a stark reminder that the criminals looking to profit from this industry are both sophisticated and highly motivated.
Questions Arise Amid IRS Crackdown on Cryptocurrency Investors 9/23/2019
In July, more than 10,000 cryptocurrency investors received warning from the IRS that they may owe taxes on improperly reported income. Weeks later, another round of letters were sent to some, outlining the amount of taxes owed for cryptocurrency gains and demands for payment. These letters are likely the tip of the iceberg in a long-anticipated IRS crackdown on crypto income—the latest in a series of government activity in this arena.
Cryptocurrency Regulation Round Up 6/18/2019
The regulation of digital currency markets in the U.S. and abroad remains foggy. Today, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) have been vague regarding how tokens and crypto-based assets map to traditional securities. Clear guidance has not emerged. However, even in the absence of guidance, regulators are bringing forth enforcement actions against companies believed to have engaged in improper cryptocurrency operations.
SEC Weighs in on Crypto Project, Offers Limited Guidance 6/9/2019
In early April, the Securities and Exchange Commission issued its first "no-action" letter regarding business use of blockchain-based digital assets. The letter was in response to a proposal from an air charter provider looking to launch a blockchain-based token platform to facilitate sales for air charter services. While the SEC’s response does offer some guidance, it outlines very restrictive conditions for the proposed program and is not particularly actionable for the broader business community.
Cryptocurrency Pyramid Scheme Investigations Continue Worldwide 6/6/2019
In March, news broke of fraud and money laundering charges brought against the leaders of the global, multi-billion-dollar OneCoin cryptocurrency pyramid scheme. The story has continued to develop in months since, with arrests made and new information revealed about the extent of the damages that have followed in its wake.
Cryptocurrency Market Activity Signals Trends to Watch 5/28/2019
On April 2, Bitcoin mysteriously spiked to $5,000, reaching nearly five-month highs in just a 60-minute period. Some experts think this jump may be the beginning of a renewed surge in cryptocurrency value.
Digital Asset Protection Gains Momentum: Considerations for Insurers 5/24/2019
Insurance claims involving cryptocurrencies are on the rise. Today, the industry is not fully prepared for how to deal with them. These claims seem like familiar claims on the surface, but have incredible uniqueness due to the involvement of cryptocurrencies.