Speaker: Joe Tanega, Professor of Law, Vrije Universiteit Brussel 
Chair:  Victor Murinde, AXA Professor in Global Finance, SOAS University of London 

Abstract

The financial technologies (Fintech) revolution is in full swing. Digital economies are the way to go, as we highlighted in the recent distinguished guest lecture on Ghana. Today, we shine the spotlight on blockchain technologies. 

You see, since the 16th of November 2018, the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has made clear that all initial coin offerings (ICO) that are not registered under US securities law are prima facie illegal. This principle of requiring registration is premised on the idea that full and fair disclosure is the best way to protect investors against fraud. Beyond disclosure rules, there is a thesis that blockchain interoperability for the government would eliminate corruption. But, does it? We examine the benefits and risks of blockchain interoperability for the developing world.  

Please join us and participate in this stimulating seminar. A sandwich lunch will be served. 

The seminars are sponsored by grants from DFID and ESRC [ESRC Ref: ES/N013344/2], ESRC and NSFC [ESRC Ref: ES/P005241/1] and AXA Research Fund