(NEW YORK) Katten announced today that the firm was again recognized as a significant leader in Blockchain and Cryptocurrency in the Chambers FinTech 2024 guide for the second consecutive year. Katten was recognized in the FinTech Legal: Blockchain & Cryptocurrencies - USA category, which identifies and differentiates the leading blockchain and cryptocurrency professionals globally.
Chambers cited Katten's "strong blockchain and cryptocurrency practice" which represents "market-leading crypto companies, traditional financial institutions investing in the industry, and major brands launching NFT projects" as validation for its recognition. The guide also featured client observations including how the team is "deep in understanding the regulatory hurdles" as well as its ability to offer "experienced" attorneys who provide "personalized, efficient, practical and commercial advice." Katten's Crypto practice is co-headed by partner Daniel J. Davis, former CFTC general counsel, and senior counsel Gary DeWaal.
As part of its rankings, DeWaal also earned a high individual ranking as a top practitioner in the guide. The guide highlighted DeWaal's proficiency in "traditional financial services, digital assets, CFTC (Commodity Futures Trading Commission) regulatory issues and significant licensing matters." Clients praised DeWaal for his "unique perspective" and "contacts within the industry" as well as someone who "lives and breathes regulatory legal issues." DeWaal was inducted into the Futures Industry Association's Hall of Fame earlier in 2023.
Katten's Financial Markets and Regulation practice advises clients on matters regarding cryptocurrency, digital assets and blockchain technology, as well as counsels them on regulatory, compliance, transactional and enforcement-related issues. The group is led by Davis and partner Carl E. Kennedy, who previously served as special counsel and policy advisor to a former CFTC Commissioner. Lance A. Zinman, global chair of the Financial Markets and Funds department, oversees the practice.
Chambers FinTech identifies and differentiates the leading payments, blockchain, cyber security and data protection specialists globally, offering an indispensable resource for startup and scale-up fintech businesses, incumbent tech and financial services firms, and private equity and venture capital investors in the sector. The rankings are based on thousands of thorough research interviews, all conducted by an independent and dedicated research team.
