Table of Contents
Foreword
Problem Definition
1. Introduction
1.1 Digital Finance and Fintech
1.2 Technology – Digital Finance and Tokens
1.3 Categories of Tokens
1.4 Structure and Methodology
1.5 Referencing, Terminology, and Research Limitations
1.6 Conclusion
2. Finance and Banking
2.1 Introduction
2.2 International Law
2.3 National Laws
2.4 Conclusion
3. Taxation
3.1 Introduction
3.2 Additional Tax Considerations
3.3 Arbitration
3.4 Technology Challenges and Advancements
3.5 Conclusion
4. Insurance
4.1 Introduction
4.2 Data – Cybersecurity
4.3 Arbitration
4.4 Conclusion
5. Intellectual Property Law [Patent and Copyright]
5.1 Introduction
5.2 Patents
5.3 Copyright
5.4 Conclusion
6. International Arbitration
6.1 Introduction
6.2 Evidence
6.3 Forced Arbitration
6.4 Partiality
6.5 Conclusion
7. Conclusion
7.1 Introduction
Biography
Robert Walters is an Associate Professor Law and Director Technology Law and Legal Research, Victoria University-Australia, Adjunct Professor European Faculty of Law, Advisor Corporate Insolvency Centre Gujarat National Law University, India, Honorary Lecturer Liverpool Law School, United Kingdom, Adjunct Research Fellow University Western Australia. Dr Walters is a practicing Solicitor and International Arbitrator, holding an LLB (Victoria), MPPM (Monash), PhD Law (Victoria), and been engaged by national governments to address commercial and private law matters across the digital economy.
This book by Robert Walters apprehends the coming storm in the financial world of the digital finance economy. We are almost into it, and should blockchain technology and cryptocurrency become a universal currency of world trade, disputes in that area are bound to arise. Arbitration and mediation seem to be on the forefront to solve these issues, and an in-depth understanding of the subject will give lawyers a competitive edge. Professor Robert Walters is a great researcher in this field and his constant academic pursuits in the form of his second book is indeed a must read for those who need to understand the various facets. I strongly recommend this to all students, bar and bench, professors and businessmen alike.
Justice Vineet Kothari, Former Acting Chief Justice, Gujarat and Madras High Courts, Former Judge, Rajasthan & Karnataka High Courts, Senior Advocate, Supreme Court of India, India
I have worked with Dr Walters in India. We have advised both the Indian and Australian Governments as part of a grant on the governance of data, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, critical and quantum technologies and the law. This book is at the cutting edge of the new digital finance economy. The transformation that tokens will bring to the world economy will be significant. The technology of blockchain is at the forefront of this new economic activity, and this book highlights the gaps in the current day legal frameworks. The book offers a way forward and allows technologist, regulators, and the finance sector to better understand the commercial legal dilemmas related to licensing, tax, insurance, intellectual property and transnational arbitration law. I recommend this book to whoever is interested in the token and blockchain economy.
Deepak Sharma, Arna Capital, United States
The financial world is undergoing rapid transformation. While digital finance and tokens are not new concepts, their integration with blockchain, digital wallets, and stable coins is reshaping the global financial landscape. This book is highly recommended, and having worked with the author, Dr. Walters, for over two decades, I can attest to his deep expertise in navigating complex cross-border transnational law.
Dr. Walters has an exceptional ability to translate his practical experience as a solicitor and international arbitrator into a forward-looking legal framework. His deep understanding of digital wallets and stable coins as tools for seamless cross-border payments, combined with his insights into how banks are adopting advanced workflows, positions him as a leader in this field. His work lays the foundation for new opportunities in the digital economy, enabling it to thrive and drive further innovation.
Andrew Paynter, Chief Executive Officer and Founder, BAWN Consulting Group, Australia
The author Dr Walters expertly navigates the fast-evolving landscape of fintech, digitisation and tokenisation. The book combines clear explanations with real-world case studies, making complex concepts accessible to both novices and experts. The comparative narrative of the various laws of numerous countries (including the EU) is an excellent overview for people needing to have that birds eye view and deeper understanding of the legal challenges that lie ahead.
Readers will appreciate the insightful analysis on issues including taxation, IP and insurance issues. Long story short – the writing is concise yet rich and full with information/analysis and references to laws and authorities, which makes this a very useful book in a transformative sector. It is a must-read for anyone looking to grasp the future of finance. Highly recommended for those wanting to know more!
Lawrence Tan, Founding Partner, Elden Law, Singapore
