The Appleby Podcast

Appleby Global

The Appleby podcasts discuss topics and trends across the legal and financial sectors. Find out more from our multi-jurisdictional experts, in our various podcast series including ‘Bermuda Shorts’ and ‘Asia Talks’. Appleby is one of the world’s leading international law firms. Our global teams of legal specialists advise public and private companies, financial institutions and private individuals. We are a full service law firm providing comprehensive, expert advice and services across corporate, dispute resolution, private client and trusts, property and regulatory practice areas. We have offices in eleven highly regarded, well-regulated global locations and practise the laws of eight jurisdictions. Our office locations include the key international jurisdictions of Bermuda, the British Virgin Islands, the Cayman Islands, Guernsey, the Isle of Man, Jersey, Mauritius and the Seychelles, as well as the international financial centres of Hong Kong and Shanghai, and the technology hub of Shenzhen. Our global presence enables us to provide comprehensive, multi-jurisdictional legal advice at the times most beneficial to our clients.

  1. 3d ago

    AML Requirements for DABA Applications

    In this episode of #TechTalks, the spotlight turns to one of the most important aspects of any Digital Asset Business Act (DABA) licence application: anti-money laundering compliance. George McCallum and Karim Creary, lawyers in Appleby’s #Bermuda Technology practice who specialise in advising on DABA licensing matters, are joined by Jarion Richardson, Appleby’s Regulatory, Governance & Compliance Advisory Lead and a highly experienced AML specialist, to offer an insightful look at Bermuda’s AML framework and the regulatory expectations facing prospective applicants. The discussion explores the policies, procedures and governance frameworks applicants are expected to establish, as well as how the Bermuda Monetary Authority (BMA) assesses the strength and effectiveness of an AML programme. The trio also consider the key personnel and reporting obligations involved, alongside important requirements relating to customer due diligence, ongoing monitoring and outsourcing arrangements. Drawing on Jarion’s specialist regulatory compliance experience, the conversation provides practical insight into common pitfalls and misconceptions that can arise when preparing an AML programme. Together, George, Karim and Jarion offer prospective applicants a valuable overview of what to expect during the regulatory assessment process and why a robust, carefully considered AML framework is essential from the outset. About Appleby The Appleby podcasts discuss topics and trends across the legal and financial sectors. Find out more from our multi-jurisdictional experts, in our various podcast series including ‘Bermuda Shorts’ and ‘Asia Talks’. Appleby is one of the world’s leading international law firms. Our global teams of legal specialists advise public and private companies, financial institutions and private individuals. We are a full service law firm providing comprehensive, expert advice and services across corporate, dispute resolution, private client and trusts, property and regulatory practice areas. We have offices in eleven highly regarded, well-regulated global locations and practise the laws of eight jurisdictions. Our office locations include the key international jurisdictions of Bermuda, the British Virgin Islands, the Cayman Islands, Guernsey, the Isle of Man, Jersey, Mauritius and the Seychelles,...

    AML Requirements for DABA Applications
  2. Jun 5

    Digital Assets in Focus: Conference Highlights

    In this episode of #TechTalks, the conversation turns to key takeaways from two industry conferences — Consensus in Miami and the Digital Finance Forum in Bermuda — and what they signal for the future of digital assets. Building on themes explored in our previous episode, there is a clear sense of acceleration, with several anticipated developments already beginning to take shape. A central theme across both conferences was the shift from retail-driven activity to institutional participation, particularly through the tokenisation of real-world assets. The emergence of on-chain financial products, including ETFs incorporating blockchain elements, points to a market that is maturing rapidly and integrating more seamlessly with traditional finance. Appleby’s Jerome Wilson, George McCallum and Karim Creary also highlight more specialised innovation shared at Consensus, with market participants developing differentiated offerings such as solutions in estate planning, reflecting an ecosystem that is both deepening and diversifying. The discussion also explores the growing convergence of AI and digital assets, particularly the rise of agentic commerce and AI-enabled transactions. With digital assets expected to underpin many of these use cases, the importance of clear and enabling regulation remains front of mind. In this context, Bermuda’s digital assets ecosystem continues to evolve and mature, supported by forward-looking initiatives such as proposed developments under the Payment Services Act discussed in our last episode. Reflecting on the Digital Finance Forum in Bermuda, the trio note increasing global interest in the jurisdiction, alongside plans to bring elements of the government and broader ecosystem on-chain. Combined with direct engagement with regulators and a pragmatic legislative approach, Bermuda continues to strengthen its position as a leading jurisdiction for digital assets. Our #TechTeam share their perspectives throughout the episode, underscoring both the progress made and the opportunities ahead. About Appleby The Appleby podcasts discuss topics and trends across the legal and financial sectors. Find out more from our multi-jurisdictional experts, in our various podcast series including ‘Bermuda Shorts’ and ‘Asia Talks’. Appleby is one of the world’s leading international law firms. Our global teams of legal specialists advise public and private companies, financial institutions and private individuals. We are a full service law firm providing comprehensive, expert advice and services across corporate, dispute resolution, private client and trusts, property and regulatory practice areas. We have offices in eleven highly regarded, well-regulated global locations and practise the laws of eight jurisdictions. Our office locations include the key international jurisdictions of Bermuda, the British Virgin Islands, the Cayman Islands, Guernsey, the Isle of Man, Jersey, Mauritius and the Seychelles,...

    Digital Assets in Focus: Conference Highlights
  3. May 6

    2026 Outlook: Digital Asset Developments

    The mics are on for the latest episode of Tech Talks, as Appleby lawyers Jerome Wilson, George McCallum and Karim Creary turn their focus to Bermuda’s digital assets landscape and what’s coming into view for the rest of 2026. The episode opens with an overview of Bermuda’s tech and digital assets environment, highlighting the jurisdiction’s supportive government approach, strong pipeline of clients, and the progress achieved through close collaboration between the Bermuda Monetary Authority and industry stakeholders. The BMA’s collegiate and commercially minded engagement has been central to Bermuda’s success as a digital asset hub, and remains a clear competitive advantage. The trio also highlight four regulatory developments shaping the market: the new operational and resilience outsourcing code; the proposed Payment Services Act, introduced to replace our Money Service Business Act, wherein there is the introduction of a “payment technology provider” included into the new payment services regime; the regulator’s integration of AI into existing regulatory frameworks; and the latest developments in the asset tokenisation framework. Be sure to connect with our team to learn more on how we can provide expert legal guidance for your business. About Appleby The Appleby podcasts discuss topics and trends across the legal and financial sectors. Find out more from our multi-jurisdictional experts, in our various podcast series including ‘Bermuda Shorts’ and ‘Asia Talks’. Appleby is one of the world’s leading international law firms. Our global teams of legal specialists advise public and private companies, financial institutions and private individuals. We are a full service law firm providing comprehensive, expert advice and services across corporate, dispute resolution, private client and trusts, property and regulatory practice areas. We have offices in eleven highly regarded, well-regulated global locations and practise the laws of eight jurisdictions. Our office locations include the key international jurisdictions of Bermuda, the British Virgin Islands, the Cayman Islands, Guernsey, the Isle of Man, Jersey, Mauritius and the Seychelles,...

    2026 Outlook: Digital Asset Developments
  4. 09/26/2025

    Insights on DABA Licensing in Bermuda

    Join Bermuda’s Jerome Wilson and George McCallum for an insightful “Tech Talks” episode exploring the practical considerations for licensing a Digital Assets Business Act (DABA) entity in Bermuda. They delve into key personnel requirements – including the appointment of a senior representative, compliance officer, and a well-structured board – and explain how applicants can meet the head office mandate through physical presence and engaged directors – and the importance of where strategic decision-making, actually takes place. The conversation also touches on the Bermuda Monetary Authority’s expectations for insurance, noting a dedicated episode on that topic is forthcoming, and share insights on the emerging wind-down plan requirement that forward-thinking applicants should be aware of.   Connect with our legal experts to discover how your business can thrive in Bermuda’s premier digital-assets hub, where sophisticated oversight and a rigorous yet business-friendly licensing framework continue to attract global innovators. About Appleby The Appleby podcasts discuss topics and trends across the legal and financial sectors. Find out more from our multi-jurisdictional experts, in our various podcast series including ‘Bermuda Shorts’ and ‘Asia Talks’. Appleby is one of the world’s leading international law firms. Our global teams of legal specialists advise public and private companies, financial institutions and private individuals. We are a full service law firm providing comprehensive, expert advice and services across corporate, dispute resolution, private client and trusts, property and regulatory practice areas. We have offices in eleven highly regarded, well-regulated global locations and practise the laws of eight jurisdictions. Our office locations include the key international jurisdictions of Bermuda, the British Virgin Islands, the Cayman Islands, Guernsey, the Isle of Man, Jersey, Mauritius and the Seychelles,...

    Insights on DABA Licensing in Bermuda
  5. 08/08/2025

    Auditing a Digital Asset Business in Bermuda

    In this episode of ‘Tech Talks’, Bermuda’s Jerome Wilson and George McCallum are joined by Erkin Atakhanov, Managing Partner at PKF Antares in Bermuda, to discuss the critical role of auditors under the Digital Assets Business Act (DABA), where appointing an auditor is a legal requirement. Given the technical and often complex nature of digital asset and fintech businesses, auditors must have a clear understanding of each company’s processes, systems, and compliance structure to assess which processes and controls should be audited. The conversation covers how different business models—validators, custodians (such as wallets and exchanges), and payment processors—require distinct audit approaches. The trio also address the challenge of jurisdictional ambiguity, stressing the importance of aligning internal operations with local laws even when geographic boundaries aren’t clear. As fintech businesses and blockchains may not have set jurisdictional boundaries, having an experienced auditor who understands the digital assets landscape is essential. If you’re considering establishing a digital assets business in Bermuda or want to learn more about the audit process, connect with Jerome, George, or Erkin for further guidance. Click here to access all our Bermuda Shorts episodes. About Appleby The Appleby podcasts discuss topics and trends across the legal and financial sectors. Find out more from our multi-jurisdictional experts, in our various podcast series including ‘Bermuda Shorts’ and ‘Asia Talks’. Appleby is one of the world’s leading international law firms. Our global teams of legal specialists advise public and private companies, financial institutions and private individuals. We are a full service law firm providing comprehensive, expert advice and services across corporate, dispute resolution, private client and trusts, property and regulatory practice areas. We have offices in eleven highly regarded, well-regulated global locations and practise the laws of eight jurisdictions. Our office locations include the key international jurisdictions of Bermuda, the British Virgin Islands, the Cayman Islands, Guernsey, the Isle of Man, Jersey, Mauritius and the Seychelles,...

    Auditing a Digital Asset Business in Bermuda
  6. 07/03/2025

    Bermuda: Fintech Insights & Trends

    In our latest episode of our “Tech Talks” podcast, technology law specialists Partner Jerome Wilson, Senior Associate George McCallum, and Associate Karim Creary delve into the dynamic global fintech landscape, with a spotlight on Bermuda’s Digital Assets Business Act (DABA). They recap key insights from two industry gatherings — Bermuda’s Digital Finance Forum and the global Consensus conference — before exploring current trends in the Bermuda market and offering a forward-looking perspective for the next 12 to 18 months. Discussion highlights include Bermuda’s clear and consistent regulatory framework, which continues to attract sophisticated market participants; the jurisdiction’s ease of doing business under DABA; and the growing convergence of industries like insurance and digital assets — a trend that is narrowing the gap between traditional and decentralized finance — as a result of Bermuda’s flexible and forward-thinking regulatory approach.  Be sure to connect with our tech team to explore how your business can thrive in Bermuda’s well-regulated digital assets environment. About Appleby The Appleby podcasts discuss topics and trends across the legal and financial sectors. Find out more from our multi-jurisdictional experts, in our various podcast series including ‘Bermuda Shorts’ and ‘Asia Talks’. Appleby is one of the world’s leading international law firms. Our global teams of legal specialists advise public and private companies, financial institutions and private individuals. We are a full service law firm providing comprehensive, expert advice and services across corporate, dispute resolution, private client and trusts, property and regulatory practice areas. We have offices in eleven highly regarded, well-regulated global locations and practise the laws of eight jurisdictions. Our office locations include the key international jurisdictions of Bermuda, the British Virgin Islands, the Cayman Islands, Guernsey, the Isle of Man, Jersey, Mauritius and the Seychelles,...

    Bermuda: Fintech Insights & Trends
  7. 03/07/2025

    Bermuda Fintech Update

    Jerome Wilson, Partner and Head of Appleby’s Technology & Innovation practice in Bermuda provides an update on the jurisdiction’s thriving Fintech sector. Jerome covers three main points - the growth of the digital assets business in Bermuda; the evolution of the industry; and why Bermuda and its many strengths, including Bermuda’s gold standard regulatory regime, solution-oriented regulator, progressive application process, and sophisticated business ecosystem – all contributing to the caliber of clients drawn to Bermuda. About Appleby The Appleby podcasts discuss topics and trends across the legal and financial sectors. Find out more from our multi-jurisdictional experts, in our various podcast series including ‘Bermuda Shorts’ and ‘Asia Talks’. Appleby is one of the world’s leading international law firms. Our global teams of legal specialists advise public and private companies, financial institutions and private individuals. We are a full service law firm providing comprehensive, expert advice and services across corporate, dispute resolution, private client and trusts, property and regulatory practice areas. We have offices in eleven highly regarded, well-regulated global locations and practise the laws of eight jurisdictions. Our office locations include the key international jurisdictions of Bermuda, the British Virgin Islands, the Cayman Islands, Guernsey, the Isle of Man, Jersey, Mauritius and the Seychelles,...

    Bermuda Fintech Update
  8. 03/04/2025

    Asia Talks - Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging (DIB) Conversation

    In this episode of Appleby's Asia Talk, Fiona Chan and Wendy Sham shifted from usual technical legal series to highlight our firm's dedication to DIB. As part of the global DIB committee member and the Champion of Hong Kong and Shanghai offices, Fiona shared our firm's vision and unwavering commitment to fostering a culture where colleagues feels empowered, valued and accepted in workplace. Wendy and Fiona also explored how to transform these visions into concrete actions with long term initiatives as well as immediate development across all levels and jurisdictions. Please visit our website on DIB for more information. #DIB #Diversity #Inclusion #Belonging #Appleby #AsiaTalkPodcast About Appleby The Appleby podcasts discuss topics and trends across the legal and financial sectors. Find out more from our multi-jurisdictional experts, in our various podcast series including ‘Bermuda Shorts’ and ‘Asia Talks’. Appleby is one of the world’s leading international law firms. Our global teams of legal specialists advise public and private companies, financial institutions and private individuals. We are a full service law firm providing comprehensive, expert advice and services across corporate, dispute resolution, private client and trusts, property and regulatory practice areas. We have offices in eleven highly regarded, well-regulated global locations and practise the laws of eight jurisdictions. Our office locations include the key international jurisdictions of Bermuda, the British Virgin Islands, the Cayman Islands, Guernsey, the Isle of Man, Jersey, Mauritius and the Seychelles,...

    Asia Talks - Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging (DIB) Conversation

Ratings & Reviews

4
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

The Appleby podcasts discuss topics and trends across the legal and financial sectors. Find out more from our multi-jurisdictional experts, in our various podcast series including ‘Bermuda Shorts’ and ‘Asia Talks’. Appleby is one of the world’s leading international law firms. Our global teams of legal specialists advise public and private companies, financial institutions and private individuals. We are a full service law firm providing comprehensive, expert advice and services across corporate, dispute resolution, private client and trusts, property and regulatory practice areas. We have offices in eleven highly regarded, well-regulated global locations and practise the laws of eight jurisdictions. Our office locations include the key international jurisdictions of Bermuda, the British Virgin Islands, the Cayman Islands, Guernsey, the Isle of Man, Jersey, Mauritius and the Seychelles, as well as the international financial centres of Hong Kong and Shanghai, and the technology hub of Shenzhen. Our global presence enables us to provide comprehensive, multi-jurisdictional legal advice at the times most beneficial to our clients.