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
Chair
Partner, Corporate, Calgary
Latest Insights
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Osler Update December 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...
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Blog June 23, 2025
A tale of two regimes: the U.S. GENIUS Act and Canada’s divergent approach to stablecoin regulation
The U.S. GENIUS Act is the first comprehensive federal regulatory framework for stablecoins and sets a clear framework for issuers and users.
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Osler Update June 16, 2025
Strong Borders Act proposes sweeping changes to Canada’s AML regime
Canada’s Strong Borders Act proposes changes to the country’s AML regime, including increases to maximum administrative penalties and fines.
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Blog March 31, 2025
Court of Appeal takes a purposive approach in affirming certification of a securities class action against a crypto asset trading platform
A recent decision provides insight into the approach Ontario courts are taking to securities class actions involving cryptocurrencies.
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SubscribeAwards and Recognition
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Chambers Fintech: Canada’s Leading Lawyers in Fintech (Band 1)
In the Media
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July 11, 2025
Matthew Burgoyne wins Mondaq FinTech Thought Leadership Award
Osler is pleased to announce that Matthew Burgoyne, Chair of the Digital Assets and Blockchain practice, has been named the Canadian winner of the...
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Media Mentions July 2, 2025
Canada’s banks are about to get hit by a trillion-dollar stablecoin tsunami – The Logic
With an aim to advance the use of real-time payments and open banking, the commerce platform, Shopify, has recently introduced an option for...
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Media Mentions April 4, 2025
The OSC is cracking down on crypto-betting platform Polymarket – The Logic
The Ontario Securities Commission (OSC) is strengthening oversight of Polymarket, a crypto-based betting platform in which users can wager on the...
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Media Mentions February 28, 2025
How Canada dodged the biggest crypto hack in history – The Logic
Matthew Burgoyne spoke to The Logic about how Canada’s securities regulators provide a level of customer protection on crypto platforms operating...
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