Description

This seminar will consider key legal and regulatory developments in the area of blockchain technology. The talk will begin with a brief overview of the nature of blockchain technology, followed by practical applications that have been, or are in the process of being, operationalized around the world (in the area of capital markets, payments, real estate and others). This will be followed by a discussion of the regulatory response by several notable jurisdictions around the world and also the significant legal issues and challenges that are raised by this highly novel technology. The aim will be to give participants an overview of the workings of blockchain technology, how and why it is challenging fundamental legal concepts and regulatory frameworks, and also the status of the legal jurisprudence.

About The Speaker

Usman Sheikh is a Partner in Gowling WLG’s Toronto office. Named in 2018 as one of the “Top 25 Most Influential Lawyers” in Canada, he serves as the National Head of the firm’s Blockchain & Smart Contract Group. As leader of the group, Usman oversees a diverse team comprising more than 80 practitioners. Among the team’s many accomplishments is the listing of the very first blockchain company in the world. His clients include Canada’s largest banks, co-founders of Ethereum, nine of the largest cryptocurrencies in the world as well as several blockchain pioneers. A highly sought after thought leader, Usman has briefed the offices of several prime ministers, as well as ministers, on blockchain’s disruptive power. He has lectured at the IMF, co-lectured with the heads of blockchain for Nasdaq and the TMX, among others. In 2018, Usman is scheduled to publish The Law of Blockchain Technology.

Who Should Attend

Banking lawyers, in-house bank counsel, policymakers