Sep 28, 2022 - Web 3 is a set of technologies that combine into new classes of digital services. Web 1 refers to the read-only Internet (1980s–early 2000s) where most users consumed content like encyclopedia entries, directories, and catalogs. Web 2 refers to the read-write Internet (early 2000s–2020) with many killer apps like Google search and Facebook for finding, collaborating, and transacting with each other online. Web 3 is the read-write-own Internet (2020–today), based on blockchain protocols that support online privacy, self-sovereign identity, and property rights to digital assets.

Feb 18, 2020 - This research describes many industry consortia within the blockchain enterprise space and describes the goals of three in particular—Blockchain Insurance Industry Initiative, Enterprise Ethereum Alliance, and Hyperledger, hosted by the Linux Foundation. The project involved interviews with twenty-five executives and thought leaders who are innovatively deploying blockchain technology in industries ranging from artificial intelligence to healthcare. It lays out the business case for joining blockchain consortia including developing standards for technologies and building trust and confidence in new technology solutions. It distills the best...

Mar 16, 2018 - This project digs into the regulatory implications of privately funding public blockchain-based resources, some of which qualify as an ecosystem such as Bitcoin and Ethereum, some as a decentralized application (Dapp), and some as a regulated security (e.g., The DAO), according the Securities and Exchange Commission. The Coalition of Automated Legal Applications describes various legal solutions, such as simple agreement for future tokens, that could support ecosystems that are innovative, streamlined, and fair for all stakeholders.

Feb 09, 2021 - This research project surveys what federal governments can do to exploit the next era of technology across their operations, within their economies and society, and with their allies and global partners. It focuses on the threats and opportunities facing the United States—including China’s increasing dominance in global supply chains and strategic innovation. It also speaks to challenges the new administration faces, and recommends five areas for immediate action: securing digital systems, citizen identities, and personal data; embracing cryptocurrencies and launching a digital dollar; transforming government services and culture; engagin...

Sep 28, 2017 - A new phenomenon—initial coin offerings—enabled through blockchain technology is upending basic tenets of twentieth-century capitalism. This project frames the opportunity in terms of addressing the tragedy of the commons. He studies the development and ramification of the emerging token economy and walks through the landscape of token types. He previews the economic effects of digital scarcity, tokens as powerful incentives, and the legal and policy ramifications for securities law and property rights.

Aug 31, 2019 - This project surveys patents issued globally in the blockchain space, compares them to the nature and volume of patents in the Internet space, and puts them into categories of innovation. The author walks through a careful analysis of the claims of issued patents, for companies to decide whether to avoid such patents or to design around their claims. He identifies deficiencies in the patent office review of prior art, which—when rectified—could render a patent invalid. Finally, he discusses strategic uses of patent offices and the federal court system in the defense of or dispute over an issued patent.