Crypto, Securities, Howey Test, Constitution Constantine Economides Crypto, Securities, Howey Test, Constitution Constantine Economides

The “Howey” test and the Term “Investment Contract”

For years, courts viewed the “Howey” test as clear guidance as to whether a particular asset or investment was a security. Now, recent inconsistent decisions, particularly in the crypto space, have questioned that clear guidance. The effect is a rekindling the debate as to whether the term “investment contract” is void for vagueness because it fails to give people and businesses a reasonable answer as to what is or is not a security.

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New Federal Legislation Criminalizes Demand Side of Bribery

The Foreign Extortion prevention Act ("FEPA" or the "Act") was passed as part of the 2024 National Defense Authorization Act ("NDAA"), was passed in Congress with bipartisan support and signed into law by President Biden. FEPA is the first U.S. regulation intended to regulate the "demand side" of foreign bribery--creating a direct criminal statute against foreign officials who solicit or accept bribes from a company or individual in the U.S.

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Legislation, massachusetts, new york, florida Riley Hiatt Legislation, massachusetts, new york, florida Riley Hiatt

New Year, New Legislation: New York, Massachusetts & Florida

It is critical to keep up with the most recent legislative developments in law. Three states—New York, Massachusetts, and Florida—have enacted a plethora of new legislation that will affect individuals, companies, and communities as we enter 2024. This year is bringing with it a flurry of legislative modifications that need attention, from major tax cuts to workers' rights improvements.  Below are a few of the highlights:

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