Welcome to Beyond the Code, the podcast where we dive into the legal, regulatory, and ethical issues surrounding emerging technologies. Each week, we bring you ...
Crypto Mom to Crypto Stepmom: SEC Commissioner Hester Peirce on SEC Challenges and Opportunities
In this episode of Beyond the Code, SEC Commissioner Hester Peirce, affectionately referred to within the cryptoverse as "Crypto Mom," joins Yitzy to discuss the SEC’s evolving approach to cryptocurrency and innovation. They explore the challenges of balancing regulatory oversight with fostering innovation, the agency's struggles to provide clear guidelines for the crypto industry, and the impact of enforcement-focused strategies on both U.S. and global markets. Commissioner Peirce candidly shares her views on the need for transparency, collaboration with international regulators, and empowering consumers through education, while also reflecting on her role as a dissenting voice within the SEC. With the upcoming change in SEC leadership and a new administration, Commissioner Peirce highlights why this moment is an opportunity to embrace optimism and work toward a regulatory framework that fosters innovation while protecting investors. Whether you're an industry professional or simply curious about the intersection of crypto and regulation, this episode offers a deep dive into the complexities and opportunities shaping the future of financial technology.
Follow the Commissioner on X, at: @HesterPeirce
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35:49
With Great Power Comes Great Responsibility: Noah Perlman on Binance, Regulation, and the Road Ahead
In this episode of Beyond the Code, Yitzy sits down with Noah Perlman, Chief Compliance Officer at Binance, to explore the intricate balance of power, responsibility, and innovation at the world’s largest crypto exchange. Noah reflects on his journey from a federal prosecutor and DEA counsel to leading the compliance efforts of the one of the most important institutions in crypto.
The conversation delves into Binance's proactive approach to compliance, the challenges of maintaining trust across 21 global jurisdictions, and the firm’s investment in cutting-edge technologies, including AI, to combat financial crime. Noah also opens up about the emotional toll of last year’s ordeal involving his colleague, Tigran Gambaryan, and how it galvanized the team’s resolve. With insights into the future of regulation under a shifting political climate, this episode offers a thought-provoking look at how Binance is setting new standards in crypto governance.
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47:04
Trolling for Truth in the War of Words and Building the Best Crypto Wallet on the Planet, with ZenGo’s Ouriel Ohayon
In this episode of Beyond the Code, Yitzy Hammer sits down with Ouriel Ohayon, CEO and founder of ZenGo, to explore the cutting-edge innovations behind the world’s most secure crypto wallet. Ouriel shares the journey from discovering crypto to building a wallet that eliminates the pain points of seed phrases, leverages multi-party computation (MPC) technology, and prioritizes user security and simplicity.
The conversation also delves into Ouriel's relentless advocacy for Israel, his strategic approach to countering misinformation online, and the broader battle for truth in the digital age. Tune in for an inspiring discussion that spans technology, resilience, and a vision for a brighter future in both the crypto space and the world.
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1:06:07
Prof. Edward Lee on The Resurgence of NFTs and AI’s Impact on Copyright Law
In this episode of Beyond the Code, Yitzy sits down with Professor Edward Lee, a leading expert in intellectual property, copyright law, and emerging technologies. Professor Lee, author of Creators Take Control, dives into the fascinating world of NFTs, AI, and their legal and cultural implications.
Together, they explore:
The resurgence of NFTs and their role in redefining digital art and IP ownership;
The challenges posed by AI to copyright law, including questions of authorship and creativity;
The impact of regulation (or lack thereof) on innovation in Web3 and AI spaces;
The evolving debate over NFTs as securities and the role of the SEC in shaping the market.
Professor Lee shares insights from his book, recent Harvard and Yale publications, and his work tracking AI controversies through ChatGPTIsEatingTheWorld.com.
Tune in to learn how law is adapting—or failing to adapt—to innovations that are reshaping our world.
Guest Links:
Book: Creators Take Control
Website: ChatGPTIsEatingTheWorld.com
AI and the Sound of Music (Yale)
Prompting Progress: Authorship in the Age of AI (Florida Law Review)
Why is the SEC wrong about NFTs (Coindesk)
The Original Public Meaning of ‘Investment Contract’ (Harvard)
Follow Prof. Lee:
X: https://x.com/edleeprof
Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/edleeprof.bsky.social
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/edward-lee-18084652
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50:05
Ofir Eliasi: Revolutionizing Wallet Infrastructure with Account Abstraction in Web3
In this episode of Beyond the Code, Yitzy sits down with Ofir Eliasi, founder of Borsa, to discuss his journey as a serial entrepreneur and blockchain innovator. Ofir shares his background, from early days in the 8200 unit of the Israeli army to leading development at major tech companies and startups, including his work on groundbreaking blockchain projects since 2017.
The conversation delves into the evolution of account abstraction, its transformative potential for blockchain infrastructure, and how Borsa is pioneering new solutions for wallet technology. Ofir also reflects on the lessons learned from the NFT boom, the strengths of the Israeli Web3 ecosystem, and his vision for the future of blockchain. Tune in for an insightful discussion on technical innovation, entrepreneurship, and the challenges and opportunities shaping the next wave of Web3.
Check out Vitalik’s new blog post which Yitzy and Ofir discussed, ‘What I Would Love to See in a Wallet”.
Follow Ofir on X.
Welcome to Beyond the Code, the podcast where we dive into the legal, regulatory, and ethical issues surrounding emerging technologies. Each week, we bring you in-depth conversations with industry experts, discussing the latest advancements in technology and their implications on society and the legal system. From artificial intelligence to blockchain, we'll be exploring all the hot topics in the field. Your host, Yitzy Hammer, a lawyer and tech enthusiast, is joined by a diverse group of experts, providing valuable insight into the complex and ever-evolving world of technology.