Blockchain for Beginners: Basic Tax Issues for Digital Assets

GILTI Conscience

In this episode of the “GILTI Conscience” podcast, Roger Brown, global head of Tax Strategy at Chainalysis, joins our hosts Nate Carden and David Farhat to talk about the basics of blockchain. Roger explains what blockchain is, how tax rules apply to crypto and the field’s potential benefits.

Roger says that people regularly approach him with questions about blockchain and crypto — although the sector began forming many years ago, substantial uncertainty remains, especially regarding tax rules and policies. Roger therefore begins this overview with the basics. He notes that buzzwords like “bitcoin” and “blockchain” are commonly thrown around, but he emphasizes that they’re only interconnected, not interchangeable. Bitcoin, which uses blockchain technology to secure transactions, is intended to be a peer-to-peer payment network, while blockchain is utilized for recordkeeping, tracking the movement of a digital asset (such as bitcoin) from virtual wallet to virtual wallet.

Roger also notes that the crypto space is more expansive and potentially beneficial than most people realize. “Crypto” refers to more than just payment applications. Technologies like Filecoin, a blockchain-based cooperative digital storage system, are focused on replacing business functions. Individuals and businesses alike can take advantage of such advances. But what important tax rules and policies should you understand before diving into this space?

From a technical tax perspective, Roger says, the rules are nothing new. When you own cryptocurrency or any other digital asset, it’s your property and, therefore, property rights still apply. If you’re worried about taxation on cryptocurrencies as trading becomes more commonplace, Roger suggests investing in a partner company. These experts can help you understand how tax rules apply to crypto and ensure the IRS doesn’t come knocking on your door for an audit.

💡 Featured Guest 💡

Name: Roger Brown

What he does: Roger is the global head of Tax Strategy at Chainalysis. He has 30 years of international tax experience for multinational enterprises in financial services, technology, blockchain and other industries. Roger has worked with law firms, accounting firms and the national office of the IRS.

Organization: Chainalysis Inc.

Words of wisdom: “There are all these [technologies] now that are leaning into these traditional business processes, that are far more than just payments.

Connect: LinkedIn

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GILTI Conscience is a podcast by Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP, and Affiliates. Skadden’s tax team is recognized globally for providing clients with creative and innovative solutions to their most pressing transactional, planning, and controversy challenges. This podcast is provided for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended and should not be construed as legal advice. This podcast is considered advertising under applicable state laws.