Asad Akhtar

Associate, Corporate

Toronto

(416) 862-4242 

[email protected]

Bar Admission: Ontario, 2017 |

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Areas of Expertise

Asad is an associate in our Corporate group. His practice focuses on capital markets and frequently advises clients on Canadian securities regulatory matters. Asad has expertise developing and leading policy initiatives in Canada on innovative business models, including the regulatory framework for crypto asset trading platforms, digital asset custodians, digital asset investment funds and initial coin/token offerings.  

Asad assists clients to obtain regulatory approval for innovative business models and investment products through applications for registration and exemptive relief. Asad also advises clients on regulatory audits, investigations and compliance issues.  

Prior to joining Osler, Asad served as Legal Counsel to the Ontario Securities Commission where he worked in the Innovation Office, Corporate Finance, Compliance and Registrant Regulation and Derivatives branch.

Areas of Expertise

Representative Work

Notable Matters prior to joining Osler:

  • Lead OSC Staff reviewer for the first crypto asset trading platform in Canada to be registered under securities legislation.
  • Lead OSC Staff reviewer for the first initial coin offering in Canada to receive exemptive relief from the registration and prospectus requirement under securities legislation.
  • Lead OSC Staff reviewer for the first private investment fund in Canada that offers investors exposure to various digital assets.
  • Lead OSC Staff reviewer for the first digital asset marketplace in Canada to receive exemptive relief from marketplace requirements under securities legislation.
  • Advised OSC Enforcement Staff on multiple matters relating to potential breaches of Ontario securities and derivatives laws.

Community Involvement

  • Community Living Ontario, Pro Bono Student
  • Community Legal Aid Services Program, Intake Volunteer
  • Osgoode Business Clinic, Senior Pro Bono Case Worker

Credentials

Education

  • Osgoode Hall Law School, J.D.
  • University of Manitoba, B.Comm.

Languages

  • English

Professional Affiliations

  • South Asian Bar Association
  • Law Society of Ontario

Osler is a leading business law firm practising internationally from offices across Canada and in New York. Our clients include industry and business leaders in all segments of the market and at various stages in the growth of their businesses. We have built our reputation on our commitment to our clients' success and the experience, expertise and collaborative approach for which we are recognized. We believe that our success is a reflection of our clients' success.