Blockchains: How They Work and Why They Matter

"Blockchain" – or "general ledger" technology – has been heralded by some as one of the most important and disruptive information technology developments since the internet. Although initially developed as the protocol on which bitcoin runs, the technology has proven to have applications across myriad industries ranging from financial services to supply chain management to licensing. Still in its early stages, the speed of blockchain adoption has been unprecedented.

Join Skadden's Stuart Levi and James Talbot as they discuss the legalities surrounding blockchains like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other cryptocurrencies. They will provide an overview of blockchains and how they work, as well as address how "private" or "permissioned" blockchains are different, offer examples of potential use cases, and discuss the validity and best practices for the use of smart contracts.  

Learning Objectives:

1. Identify how blockchains work and the many ways the technology may be used
2. Address the differences beyond the various blockchain initiatives
3. Assess the role of so-called "smart contracts" and best practices for use
4. Discuss the laws that have already be implemented to account for these new technologies