Tech Talks - CIVAS Mid-Year Digital Assets Outlook

Be part of an engaging and insightful discussion that takes a closer look at where the digital asset space is heading in the second half of the year, in collaboration with the Cayman Islands Virtual Assets Society (CIVAS). This session will dive into the forces influencing the sector, including evolving regulatory landscapes, shifting market dynamics, and the increasing intersection of artificial intelligence with digital finance.

Featuring perspectives from experienced voices within the industry, the conversation will shed light on upcoming developments, highlight key innovations, and explore potential avenues for growth. Attendees can look forward to an interactive exchange of ideas, diverse viewpoints, and thoughtful commentary on the technologies and trends redefining the future of digital assets.

• Aaron Unterman, Web3 Director and Fund Director at IMS (Moderator)
  Aaron Unterman is a Web3 Director and Fund Director at IMS and a Steering Committee Member of the Cayman Islands Virtual Assets Society (CIVAS). As a Professional Director, Aaron brings over 18 years of experience across finance, regulation, and law. His work spans virtual assets, investment funds, derivatives, and structured finance, with a strong focus on Web3 and regulated virtual asset service providers. He has advised leading crypto firms on governance, licensing, and regulatory strategy, and previously played a key role in shaping policy at the Cayman Islands Monetary Authority, including the development of the jurisdiction’s framework for VASPs. 

• Chris Duncan, Partner at Carey Olsen (Panellist)
  Chris Duncan is a partner in the Carey Olsen corporate team, where he leads the firm's fintech and digital assets group across both the Cayman Islands and the British Virgin Islands. Dual qualified in both jurisdictions, he advises on a wide range of crypto and Web3 matters, from DAO structuring and token issuances to exchanges, wallet providers, NFT platforms, and venture funds. His work also spans regulatory licensing under VASP regimes and navigating complex interactions with local and international authorities, drawing on his background in regulatory and tax investigations. Recognised as a leading practitioner in the space, Chris is ranked Band 1 for FinTech by Chambers and Partners and regularly contributes to industry conversations through speaking engagements and publications.

• Nick Snow, General Counsel at Monad Foundation (Panellist)
  Nick Snow is the General Counsel at the Monad Foundation where he leads legal and regulatory strategy. Nick possesses nearly 20 years of legal experience across various companies both in and outside of the crypto industry. Prior to joining the Monad Foundation, Nick served as General Counsel at Category Labs, and earlier was General Counsel at Polygon Labs and held various legal roles at Amazon. He began his legal career at Sullivan & Cromwell. Nick holds a J.D. from UCLA School of Law and a B.A. in Philosophy, Politics & Economics from Pomona College.