BlogLine

Is Virtual Currency Here To Stay?

11/15/17

By: Matthew S. Jones
With the growing interest in Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Litecoin, it was only a matter of time the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) and Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) weighed in on the legality of such “cryptocurrency”. But what is “cryptocurrency”? It is a medium of exchange that functions like money, but is independent from national borders, central banks, sovereigns, or fiats. In the most basic sense, it only exists in the virtual world, traded on multiple global platforms, in an effort to secure and verify transactions easier.
Cryptocurrency is growing more and more popular because of the increased privacy, fast transactions (almost instantaneous), irrevocability, inexpensiveness, and global reach. In fact, approximately 80,000 to 220,000 transactions occur per day, representing over $50 million in estimated daily volume. Further, there are approximately 1,100 digital currencies in existence at this time.
So how does cryptocurrency work? Well, through a process called “the blockchain protocol.” This technology records all bitcoin transactions and removes the financial middleman, allowing transactions to be finalized within minutes. Each transaction is verified and creates a log that is public record.
However, with the use and trade of these new currencies on the rise, as well as the unknown allure of such cryptocurrencies, there has been an increase in ponzi schemes. These schemes essentially promise customers an opportunity to invest in Bitcoin when in fact, the customers are only brought into the company’s ponzi scheme.
In an effort to promote safety in the trade of these currencies, the SEC declared that any cryptocurrency token deemed to be a security must be registered with the SEC or otherwise be exempt. If such cryptocurrency is not registered or exempt from registration, the issuer and other participants may be subject to liabilities and other remedies under state and federal securities laws. Such regulation by the SEC is important to help prevent fraudulent transactions.
Additionally, with the increased trading of cryptocurrency as a security, there are tax implications as well. For example, Bitcoin value has increased approximately 800% over the past year. This has caught the IRS’s attention since tax reporting on such trades/profits does not match the actual number of individuals involved in such trading. However, this should come as no surprise given the significant and fast increases in value of cryptocurrency.
So, to answer the question posed by this blog’s title: it depends. At this point, it seems as if cryptocurrency is not going anywhere in the near future. The increased interest, fast transactions, and global reach will likely continue to drive the cryptocurrency’s use. However, with the SEC and IRS close behind to ensure its proper use, it may only be a matter of time until such currencies cease to exist or hold value.
If you have any questions or would like more information, please contact Matthew Jones at mjones@fmglaw.com.