For years, blockchain developers have urged U.S. courts to provide clearer ex ante guidance on when writing or deploying decentralized software crosses the line into regulated financial activity. A March 26, 2026 decision by Chief Judge Reed O’Connor of the
Blockchain
The Blockchain blog published by Baker McKenzie focuses on legal and regulatory developments related to blockchain technology and digital assets. It covers topics such as cryptocurrency regulation, digital asset custody, stablecoin legislation, crypto trading frameworks, and compliance requirements for crypto lending platforms. The blog analyzes government policies, enforcement actions, and legislative proposals affecting blockchain and crypto markets globally, including U.S., Canadian, and Australian regulatory landscapes. It also discusses strategic implications for institutional investors, public entities, and fintech innovation within the blockchain ecosystem. The content aims to inform legal professionals and industry participants about evolving legal frameworks and market trends in blockchain and digital assets.
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How To Wield The Clarity Act As A Litigation Defense Tool
In a recent Law360 article, Baker McKenzie partners David Zaslowsky and Peter Chan explore how the US Digital Asset Market Clarity Act, though still pending in Congress, can be used to influence litigation strategy in crypto‑related matters in terms of…
What the IRS’s New Form 1099-DA Means for DeFi Users
IRS Form 1099-DA, “Digital Asset Proceeds,” is being rolled out starting with the 2025 tax year. With this new form, the federal government is moving crypto reporting toward the familiar broker-based regime long used for stocks and bonds. However, for…
The “Code is Not a Crime” Moment, Brought to You by the Promoting Innovation in Blockchain Development Act of 2026
On February 26, 2026, a bipartisan group of U.S. House members introduced the Promoting Innovation in Blockchain Development Act of 2026 (the “Blockchain Development Act”), a narrowly targeted but potentially consequential piece of legislation aimed at clarifying criminal liability for…
California’s Crypto Licensing Era Begins: DFPI Commences Acceptance of DFAL Applications on March 9th
California’s long‑anticipated digital asset licensing regime has finally arrived. Beginning today – Monday, March 9, 2026 – the California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation (“DFPI”) will be accepting license applications under the state’s Digital Financial Assets Law (“DFAL”). This…
Thailand: Bridging Payments and Digital Assets – Current Regulatory Developments
Thailand continues to advance its digital payment landscape through a phased approach. The Bank of Thailand (BOT) began with wholesale Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) pilots under Project Inthanon and mBridge and Retail CBDC project. Building on this momentum, the BOT launched the…
SEC–CFTC Crypto Coordination Meeting: Background, Substance, and Implications
On January 29, 2026, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) and the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (“CFTC”) held a closely watched joint public meeting on cryptocurrency regulation and market structure. Led by SEC Chair Paul Atkins and CFTC Chair…
The Rise and Fall of the SEC’s Case Against the Winklevoss’s Gemini
Gemini Trust Company (“Gemini”) is a New York‑based cryptocurrency trust company founded by Tyler and Cameron Winklevoss. The associated cryptocurrency exchange is now known as Gemini Space Station. The Securities and Exchange Commission’s 2023 lawsuit against Gemini was one of…
The CLARITY Act Delay and What It Reveals About U.S. Crypto Regulation
Earlier this week, the Senate Banking Committee appeared poised to advance the Digital Asset Market CLARITY Act, a sweeping effort to establish a comprehensive federal framework for digital assets. The legislation passed the House during last summer’s “Crypto Week.” See our…
In a Case That Other Celebrities Paid to Settle, Mark Cuban is Successful in Having the Lawsuit Dismissed
In a decision on December 30, 2025, Judge Roy Altman of the of the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida dismissed a putative class action lawsuit against Mark Cuban and the Dallas Mavericks basketball team. Karnas v.…