In the United States, the Howey test is a legal litmus test utilized to ascertain whether a transaction qualifies as an investment contract, and thus, is deemed a security under federal law.
As per the Howey test, a transaction must comprise an investment of funds in a joint venture with the anticipation that all profits will result from the collective efforts of the group.
If a transaction meets these prerequisites, then it is regarded as a security and is governed by federal securities laws and regulations.
How the Test Classifies Transactions as Security
In order for a transaction to be classified as a security, the Howey test necessitates the fulfillment of three fundamental criteria.
The initial criterion involves a financial investment, which entails that those involved in the transaction must be putting their own money at risk. This encompasses both monetary investments as well as non-cash investments.
The second prerequisite is a joint endeavor, indicating that the financial success of the investors is interrelated in some way.
This can be established by demonstrating that the investors have pooled their resources or depend on a third party to manage their investments.
The third and final criterion involves anticipation of profits exclusively derived from the exertions of others, indicating that the investors depend on someone else to generate returns on their investment.
This could encompass, for instance, profits produced by a third-party manager or profits realized from the endeavors of a particular group or entity.
The influence of the Howey test on the realm of cryptocurrency cannot be overstated, as it furnishes a blueprint for assessing whether a given digital currency offering should be classified as a security under U.S. law.
In the event that a cryptocurrency offering satisfies the criteria present in the Howey test, it may be deemed a security and be subjected to federal securities laws.
This has noteworthy consequences for both crypto businesses and investors, as infringing upon federal securities regulations can lead to penalties and irreparable damage to the reputation of the business.
What Happens When Tokens Don’t Mean the Test’s Requirements
Tokens that fail to satisfy the Howey test are classified as utility tokens, which grant investors access to a forthcoming product or service or can be redeemed for reduced fees.
Although utility tokens are typically not considered securities, the SEC has intimated that the existence of a utility token structure does not guarantee exemption from classification as a security.
Top of Form
Cryptocurrency enterprises need to be aware of the federal securities laws in the United States to ensure adherence to them. Here are some essential considerations to bear in mind:
Cryptocurrencies Fall under Securities Laws
The Securities and Exchange Commission recognizes a number of cryptocurrencies as securities. As a result, crypto businesses must conform to federal securities laws, which involve registration and disclosure requirements.
Token offerings May Come under Securities Laws
If a cryptocurrency company issues tokens to the public in exchange for cash or other assets, it may be deemed a securities offering. Consequently, the company must comply with securities regulations, which entails registering the offering with the SEC.
Transparency in Fund Utilization is Crucial
When raising money through a securities offering, a crypto company must disclose its financial objectives. Additionally, the company must keep investors apprised of how the funds are being employed.
Crypto Trading Platforms may fall under Securities Laws
Trading platforms that facilitate the buying and selling of tokens may qualify as securities exchanges. If this is the case, the platform would be obligated to submit an SEC registration form and adhere to other securities regulations.
Final Thoughts
Compliance with federal securities laws is crucial for crypto companies operating in the United States.
This involves understanding whether their tokens are regarded as securities, revealing how the funds raised through securities offerings will be utilized, and adhering to registration and disclosure requirements.
By complying with these regulations, cryptocurrency companies can avoid potential legal and reputational harm, as well as ensure the protection of investors.