Distributed ledger technologies including blockchain and other digital assets are reshaping the global business landscape and the potential of crypto assets is being felt across many sectors, ranging from financial services, capital markets, real estate, intellectual property, corporate transactions and much more.
Investor interest in digital assets has also risen dramatically as Bitcoin, Ethereum and other cryptocurrencies have emerged as an alternative asset class delivering extraordinary returns over the last decade. Recent developments, such as increased institutional participation, approval of the first publicly traded ETFs by Canadian securities regulators, and the popularity of stablecoins and non-fungible tokens (NFTs) signals continued positive momentum for the sector.
While opportunities in this space are limitless, the risks are complex and constantly changing, even for well-established “cryptonatives”. Participants must navigate complex and evolving rules and regulations in Canada, which can be particularly challenging as the fast-paced nature of the digital asset landscape is outpacing the corresponding regulatory frameworks.
Having experienced legal counsel with a finger on the pulse of the digital asset ecosystem is crucial to navigating this evolving space.
Osler’s Digital Assets and Blockchain team advises early-stage and established digital asset clients, including trading and lending platforms, investment managers, software developers and institutional investors in the Canadian digital asset markets.
The regulatory treatment of crypto assets is also evolving, and we leverage our extensive network of industry experts, participation in industry associations and positive working relationships with governmental authorities to advocate for you and guide you on how to create, trade, hold and manage crypto assets in a manner that aligns with applicable law and current regulatory interpretations. We also advise on enforcement actions that can result from regulatory uncertainty. In the event that disputes arise, Osler’s leading litigation team has expertise in digital asset issues to assist clients in resolving contentious matters.
Our multidisciplinary team of experts is well-equipped to answer your questions surrounding the legal impacts of this technology and other digital assets. In particular, Osler advises market participants on:
- Cryptocurrency trading and investing
- Regulation of virtual currency dealers and crypto asset trading platforms
- Tokenized business models
- Cryptocurrency derivatives and related financial instruments
- Deployment of blockchain technology
- Enforcement investigations and proceedings and litigation
The depth of our advice and service draws on a multidisciplinary approach across Osler teams. Clients can access our extensive experience in FinTech, Emerging & High Growth Companies, Securities Regulatory, Financial Services Regulatory, Commercial/Technology, Litigation, Tax and Privacy.
Key Contacts
Co-Chair
Matthew T. Burgoyne
Partner, Corporate, Calgary
Co-Chair
Laure Fouin
Partner, Corporate, Montréal
Co-Chair
Partner, Corporate, Calgary
Co-Chair
Partner, Corporate, Montréal
Latest Insights
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Osler Update Dec 11, 2023
Digital assets and blockchain: the year of maturation
In years past, a series of industry failures and a lack of regulatory certainty threatened to chill the digital asset space. In 2023, the story change...
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Blog Jun 27, 2024
Securities and Exchange Commission approval of Ether ETFs
The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission has approved a proposed rule change allowing major exchanges to list Ethereum exchange-traded funds.
Read more
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Webinar May 2, 2024
Use of artificial intelligence (AI) in infrastructure projects
Participants will gain valuable insights into the fast-evolving use of AI in the design, management, monitoring and maintenance of infrastructure proj...
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Blog Apr 22, 2024
Extension and clarifications on the regulation of value-referenced cryptoassets
On April 17, 2024, the Canadian Securities Administrators announced an extension for crypto trading platforms dealing with value-referenced cryptoasse...
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Stay up to date with our latest insights
SubscribeAwards and Recognition
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Chambers Fintech: Canada’s Leading Lawyers in Fintech (Band 1)
In the Media
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Media Mentions Mar 4, 2024
Laure Fouin talks about FTX’s collapse and how Canadian regulators safeguard crypto assets – McGill Law Journal podcast
The McGill Law Journal podcast invited Laure Fouin, partner, Corporate and Co-Chair of the Digital Assets and Blockchain Group, to address that issue,...
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Media Mentions Jan 18, 2024
Edmonton man and his cryptocurrency company sanctioned for breaching Alberta securities laws – CBC News
In a conversation with CBC News, Matthew Burgoyne commented on a recent Alberta Securities Commission decision which ordered Devon Christopher Edwards...
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Media Mentions Dec 1, 2023
Bitcoin ETF’s 60% surge in Canada signals what’s coming in the U.S. – DL News
Bitcoin exchange traded funds (ETF) have been approved in Canada since 2021 while the U.S. is still considering the approval of similar products. Laur...
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Media Mentions Nov 3, 2023
Two years after peak crypto, Bitcoin has faded from the political conversation – CBC News
A couple of years ago, both politicians and the general public were wondering how cryptocurrency could be regulated and integrated into the financial ...
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