Blockchain: The idea of distributed ledger technology – usually associated with “cryptocurrency” like bitcoin – may be coming to the world of appraisal rights in the near future. As reported by Bloomberg BNA, Delaware’s legislature is considering facilitating the use of blockchain technology with respect to share ownership. As recent cases have shown, pursuit of appraisal rights is critically related to an understanding of the actual system of share ownership involving the Depository Trust & Clearing Corporation and intermediaries in the U.S., a process that, for the appraisal claimant, can be fraught with peril. Blockchain is one potential solution to simplify the record keeping of who owns what shares and how they own them. The relevant proposed legislation is available here.
