Hong Kong SFC paves the way for retail access to crypto platforms … provided safeguards are in place

A major virtual asset (VA) regulatory milestone occurred last week when the Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) published its much anticipated Consultation Paper on the proposed Regulatory Requirements for Virtual Asset Trading Platform Operators Licensed by the Securities and Futures Commission (Consultation Paper). Among other things, the SFC proposes to allow all types of investors, including retail, to access VA trading platforms (VATP) provided the VATP comply with a range of robust investor protection measures. Read more

Landmark trade mark/NFT decision in favour of IP owners – Hermès bags a win in the MetaBirkin case

Hermès has succeeded in its case of trade mark infringement against non-fungible token (NFT) artist Mason Rothschild. This was the first US trial considering the enforceability of intellectual property rights against the creator of NFTs. The outcome represents a win for IP owners in the fight for protection of their brand, and offers a cautionary tale for creators of NFTs. Read more