Distributed Governance

Authors

Carla L. Reyes, Southern Methodist University, Dedman School of LawFollow
Nizan Geslevich Packin, City University of New YorkFollow
Bejamin Edwards, University of Nevada, Las Vegas -- William S. Boyd School of LawFollow

ORCID (Links to author’s additional scholarship at ORCID.org)

Carla L. Reyes: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2448-8309

Abstract

Distributed ledger technology enables disruption of traditional business organizations by introducing new business entities without the directors and officers of traditional corporate entities. Although these emerging entities offer intriguing possibilities, distributed entities may suffer significant collective action problems and expose investors to catastrophic regulatory and governance risks. Our essay examines key considerations for stakeholders and argues that distributed entities must be carefully structured to function effectively.

This essay breaks new ground by critically examining distributed entities. We argue that a distributed model is most appropriate when DLT solves a unique corporate governance problem. We caution against ignoring the lessons painstakingly learned through past governance failures.

Publication Title

William & Mary Law Review Online

Document Type

Article

Keywords

Cyberlaw, Bitcoin, Ether, Crypto, Cryptocurrency, Crypto Currency, Currency, Digital Currency, Governance, Securities, Corporate Governance, Free Rider, Fintech, DAO, Hacking, Cybersecurity

Recommended Citation

Carla L. Reyes, Nizan Geslevich Packin & Benjamin P. Edwards, Distributed Governance, 59 WM. & MARY L. REV. ONLINE 1 (2017-2018)