Ownership of digital assets: issues of conflicting laws

Cryptocurrencies and tokens have revolutionised financial markets. However, it remains difficult to determine the law that governs the ownership of those assets. Typically, the problem is solved by connecting to a geographic location, such as the location of the asset. However, that solution is at odds with digital assets and their underlying technologies, as they are unencumbered by borders or central authority.

Henckel's research project is titled “Ownership of digital assets: issues of conflicting laws”. The purpose of the project is twofold. First, Henckel will investigate how the law governing the ownership of digital assets should be determined. Second, she explore how this solution can be integrated into the Dutch legal system.

Ultimately, through this research project, Henckel aims to solve the ownership problem of digital assets within private international law and provide a roadmap for the Dutch legislator on how to improve the legal framework in the face of emerging technological changes.

Duration of the project

2025

Awarded grant

50,000 euros, obtained from the NWO SGW Open Competition XS program

Contact person at our Faculty

Mr. dr. K.C. (Kirsten) Henckel

Website with additional information