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
-
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...
Read more -
Blog November 6, 2025
Federal budget sets stage for Canadian stablecoin legislation, but key contours remain unclear
Budget 2025 marks the first time Canada’s federal government has announced its intention to regulate the issuance of fiat-backed stablecoins.
Read more -
Blog August 19, 2025
Strengthening American leadership in digital financial technology: insights from the Trump’s administration report on digital assets
The report reiterates President Trump’s stated promise to make the U.S. the “crypto capital of the world.”
Read more -
Blog August 13, 2025
Ontario Court of Appeal clarifies jurisdiction over global crypto platforms
Mere access to a global internet platform from Ontario is not enough to ground jurisdiction over foreign corporate defendants.
Read more
Stay up to date with our latest insights
SubscribeAwards and Recognition
-
Canada’s Leading Lawyers in Fintech (Band 1).
—Chambers Fintech
In the Media
-
Media Mentions November 5, 2025
Federal budget 2025: Plan for stablecoin rules to usher in Canada’s ‘digital dollar era,’ advocates say –The Globe and Mail
While the federal government has promised to introduce a framework for legislation designed to regulate the issuance of stablecoins, Matt...
Read more -
Media Mentions October 31, 2025
Ottawa to unveil draft stablecoin legislation in budget, sources say – The Globe and Mail
Matt Burgoyne spoke to the Globe and Mail about the challenges with Canadian stablecoin legislation.
Read more -
Media Mentions August 8, 2025
Should prediction markets be legal in Canada? – Canadian Affairs
Osler's Matthew Burgoyne spoke to Canadian Affairs about online prediction markets.
Read more -
Media Mentions July 14, 2025
The Big Read: Saudi Investment Bank says it has nothing to do with mysterious Canadian lobbyist – The Logic
On June 1, 2025, B.C.-based businessman Darryl Williams registered to lobby the federal government for the Saudi Investment Bank (SAIB), claiming...
Read more