From the Stephenson Harwood technology team
Law and regulations are continually evolving to keep pace with fast-moving developments in emerging and disruptive technologies, but they often struggle to keep up. In today's digital work, you may find yourself being the 'first' in your market to encounter a certain issue, or you may encounter an issue that does not have a straightforward solution.
Our expert lawyers have an impressive track record of supporting clients navigate the digital revolution, acting for businesses leading in the development and deployment of disruptive technologies and innovative business models.
We recognise that you need lawyers who are forward-thinking and are able to foresee future changes and challenges. We can help you navigate the complexities of developing and using disruptive technologies within a matrix of regulation.
Our advice is pragmatic and scalable, and across our international network our technology team have been advising clients on various projects ranging from establishing a new crypto asset to adopting new technologies such as AI, and operating within the metaverse.
Some examples of the latest disruptive technologies that we advise on include:
Advised an international financial services company on the implementation and use of cutting-edge AI tools across its business.
We advised an immersive gaming developer on the legal considerations in creating its metaverse. We assisted the client with trademark searches and the protection of the name of its metaverse, and, in collaboration with our corporate investment team, advised the client on and drafted its Token Sale Agreement in view of an initial coin offering to provide additional finance. We also supported the client on a strategic brand collaboration agreement for the development of NFT collections involving the products of different brands, which were to be sold in its metaverse.
Advised on the strategy and assisted with the coordination of the prosecution of its international patent applications for its blockchain technology. This client has a well-regarded team and is the inventor of its innovative terabyte-level blockchain technology.
Advised on a wide-ranging data protection review for Exscientia, a cutting-edge AI drug discovery company, in the run up to its $2.9 billion listing.
Advised a private individual based in England in relation to a claim arising out of the loss of a significant value of bitcoins due to an alleged malfunction with a cryptocurrency platform created by a US company.
Advised an UHNW investor on the regulatory environment and structuring of tokenised crypto assets in the UAE, and advising foreign investors on issues arising from the proposed launch of an Initial Coin Offering in the UAE, including the regulatory treatment and associated obligations in onshore UAE, DIFC and ADGM.
Advised on a multi-million-dollar project to construct a Bitcoin mining data centre in Azerbaijan. As part of this project, we advised and led negotiations with a cryptocurrency services provider on a bespoke agreement for custom-made equipment to construct the data centre. We also advised in respect of Bitcoin mining services.
Advised a provider of custody and key storage solutions for holders of cryptocurrencies and virtual assets borrowing/lending services on the regulatory licensing and authorisation requirements in Hong Kong.
