The Global Blockchain Business Council (GBBC), the leading industry association for the blockchain ecosystem, announces the launch of its Legal and Regulatory Group (LRG).

The GBBC’s LRG will be focused on advising GBBC member companies and the broader ecosystem on legal and regulatory issues originating from the development and adoption of blockchain technology.

Covering issues across a wide range of sectors, including legal & regulatory, government, insurance, financial services, energy, real estate, and supply chain industries, the LRG will be comprised of representatives from the following law firms: 

In particular, the LRG will be a core component to developing the legal aspect of the GBBC’s Open Learning Forum by providing analysis and commentary on blockchain developments that fall within the legal sphere.

Sandra Ro, CEO of the GBBC, said: “As Blockchain technology continues to develop, the GBBC stays up-to-date on the most vital regulatory updates, news and projects. Our aim is to help maximize the benefits and applications of blockchain technology for the industry and society as a whole. As the technology matures and evolves, it is crucial that the industry and world at large understand and respond accordingly to the resulting regulatory and legal demands that arise as a result of blockchain’s growth and development.”

“Our aim is to provide the guidance and education that is crucial for the easy adoption of blockchain. With that in mind, I am delighted that our Legal and Regulatory Group comprises some of the leading players in the legal industry who are well placed to provide updates on the regulatory and legal issues concerning blockchain.”

CKR Law LLP

“CKR Law LLP is honored to join the Global Blockchain Business Council’s Legal and Regulatory Group. Just as Blockchain is disrupting industries across the globe, CKR is seeking to disrupt the legal profession. CKR continues to support legislation in the U.S. and provide clarity to the industry – while growing its relationships with regulators around the world to help blockchain clients understand how to comply with the laws that affect their businesses. The GBBC is a great partner for us to collaborate with to achieve these objectives and help mature the blockchain industry. We are grateful for the leadership of CEO Sandra Ro as well as her stellar team and look forward to joining forces with other members of the Legal and Regulatory Group.”

Conley Fleming LLP

“Blockchain technology has the capacity to change the world in a way that hasn’t been seen since the dawn of the Internet. GBBC, as the leading industry association dedicated to advancing understanding and adoption of blockchain technology, is ideally suited to promote the benefits of this transformative technology and ensure its widespread acceptance. Conley Fleming is proud to be a member of GBBC’s Legal and Regulatory Group to help the GBBC and its member organizations promote the benefits of blockchain technology and navigate the unfolding legal landscape, especially as it applies to non-profit organizations.”

Covington & Burling LLP

“As companies and governments worldwide seek to establish themselves as global leaders in blockchain, regulators’ interest in the technology is increasing. The GBBC’s role as a global convener and educator on DLT is crucial. We are proud to have been working with the GBBC from the start to highlight the technology’s significant potential – and ensure global regulators and business leaders can draw on the Council’s collective expertise. The Legal and Regulatory Working Group will serve to deepen our collective understanding of the importance of blockchain technology as the 21st Century’s trust infrastructure.”

Latham & Watkins LLP

“Latham & Watkins is delighted to join the GBBC’s Legal and Regulatory Group, which brings together an illustrious group of executives, regulators, and other key players in the space. We look forward to adding our insights and experience advising on complex cryptocurrency and blockchain matters to the dialogue.”

Norton Rose Fulbright

“We see businesses in key industries across the world increasingly interested, and in many cases already using, blockchain and other new technologies. It is exciting to us because it raises challenging questions that span so many areas of the law we cover and requires us to come together with business to develop innovative solutions. We are delighted to have this opportunity to extend the scope of work we have been doing with the PTDL group for the benefit of the wider GBBC family.”

Shearman & Sterling LLP

“The global regulatory landscape is rapidly evolving to keep pace with the ever-expanding use cases of blockchain and distributed ledger technology. We are excited to become part of GBBC’s LRG as it will play a vital role in fostering responsible innovation in the industry.”

Steptoe & Johnson LLP

“Understanding the legal and regulatory environment involving blockchain, cryptocurrency, and crypto-assets is critical to the success of the industry. The companies and entities engaged in this space will need to help governments understand how existing legal and regulatory frameworks apply to this emerging area of technology, and when new legal and regulatory frameworks will need to be developed. We are proud to co-chair the GBBC’s Legal and Regulatory Group and to help offer our insights and experience to the GBBC’s efforts to proactively engage with governments around the world on these critical issues.”