Meet Asim
I am a dedicated Commercial Disputes lawyer with a particular specialism in the emerging cryptoasset sector.
I have diverse experience within commercial litigation, encompassing areas such as breach of contract, partnership and joint venture disputes, shareholder disputes, franchise disputes, product liability claims and debt recovery.
Working closely with our Sports division, I have acted for a number of high profile clients in the world of sports and entertainment where the disputes often possess a delicate and confidential nature. Understanding the unique challenges and privacy concerns that come with such cases, I prioritise discretion and confidentiality, ensuring that the interests and reputations of my clients are safeguarded.
My expertise is further complemented by a familiarity with prominent arbitration institutions. I have adeptly represented clients in arbitral proceedings under the rules of institutions such as the London Court of International Arbitration (LCIA) and the Judicial Arbitration and Mediation Services (JAMS).
As the nascent cryptoasset sector has matured, I have developed a particular focus and specialism in providing legal services and advice to clients operating in the crypto and digital asset sector. From cryptoasset regulation and compliance advice to dispute resolution, my blend of traditional commercial litigation expertise, forward-thinking approach and deep understanding of digital assets, blockchain and the unique challenges and environment in which industry participants operate, positions me as a trusted legal advisor to many in the sector.
Notably among these is my work with one of the largest NFT projects on the Cardano blockchain. In addition, I have acted as a trusted crypto lawyer to one of the industry’s leading mining platforms and have advised various token issuing entities as well as a tier 1 exchange, further solidifying my reputation as a trusted legal advisor in this growing sector.
I am dedicated to delivering innovative, robust, and cost-effective legal solutions tailored to the specific needs of each client, and I take pride in being a trusted advisor in both traditional and emerging sectors.
Experience highlights
- Successfully defended a UK-based individual against attempts by a U.S. crypto lender, which had filed for bankruptcy, to recover payments made during the preference period.
- Advised a token-issuing entity and a play-to-earn (P2E) platform on a broad range of regulatory considerations, including navigating the FCA token classification guidelines, including a thorough analysis of token characteristics to determine appropriate regulatory treatment, and provided strategic advice to mitigate regulatory risks.
- Provided strategic advice and guidance to a token issuing entity on structuring the token issuance to comply with applicable regulations. Also advised on related issues such as anti-money laundering (AML) compliance, financial promotion rules, and the preparation of legal documentation to support the token’s launch and ongoing operations.
- Acted for an individual who had lost in excess of £1m in cryptoassets as a result of a sophisticated investment scam, utilising innovative legal strategies and remedies to trace and recover stolen funds.
- Assisted multiple clients in navigating the complexities of using cryptoassets for substantial purchases, including property purchases.
- Collaborated with a European law firm to assist their client to annul a tax decision issued by relevant tax authority, which had requested in excess of €1m by way of tax liability on cryptoassets not yet withdrawn from a platform.
- Represented a number of clients in recovering substantial sums which had previously been deemed ‘irretrievable’ by centralised exchanges due to erroneous transfers.
- Advised a global exchange through evolving regulatory and compliance requirements to operate within the UK market.
- Represented several token-issuing entities in negotiations with major crypto exchanges for the listing of their tokens. Advising on listing requirements, disclosure obligations, and drafted listing agreements that protecting interests while meeting the compliance standards of the exchanges.
- Advised clients on the formation and governance of Decentralized Autonomous Organizations (DAOs), including the structuring of legal entities and the drafting of governance frameworks to ensure transparent and fair decision-making processes.
- Instructed as part of a multi-jurisdictional legal team on the creation and structuring of cryptoasset investment funds targeted at institutional clients.
- Acted for clients in significant commercial agreements where cryptoassets formed a substantial part of the transaction value, providing strategic guidance on the valuation and transfer of cryptoassets, due diligence to assess cryptoasset portfolios, and negotiating terms that aligned with the parties obligations and risk profiles.
- Acted for crypto businesses and individuals in disputes relating to compensation schemes tied to cryptoasset valuations, token generation events and token rewards.
- Advised a range of traditional businesses, including retail businesses, on integrating cryptoassets as a form of payment within their business models. Developed strategies to mitigate risks associated with volatility, fraud, and regulatory scrutiny, while ensuring seamless implementation and alignment with business objectives.”
