About Alexander C. Kim

Digital asset platforms, prediction market operators, and financial institutions operating at the intersection of traditional finance and emerging technology face a unique challenge: navigating regulatory frameworks that are still taking shape. Whether launching a prediction market, building a digital asset exchange, or creating novel derivatives products, regulatory missteps can derail product launches, trigger enforcement actions, or create competitive disadvantages that persist for years.

Alex Kim counsels some of the largest digital asset trading platforms and blockchain technology companies, and commodities market participants on regulatory and strategic positioning. Alex’s practice focuses on helping clients move forward confidently in uncertain regulatory environments, turning complex US Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) and National Futures Association (NFA) requirements into practical strategies that protect their businesses while enabling growth.

The difference experience makes

The most interesting work often happens at the edges — where new market structures challenge existing regulatory categories. The answer determines which regulators have jurisdiction, what legal and compliance obligations apply, and ultimately whether a business model is viable. Alex helps clients navigate these questions before they commit resources to products that may face regulatory headwinds.

In this space, the difference between success and setback often comes down to whether you have counsel who understands both the technology and the regulatory landscape. Digital asset platforms that fail to anticipate regulatory developments find themselves in reactive mode — addressing enforcement concerns, redesigning products, or missing market opportunities while competitors move ahead.

Alex's technical understanding of blockchain-based products — developed through prior work with a digital asset startup — allows him to bridge the gap between innovation and regulation. Alex helps clients anticipate how regulators will approach novel products and structures, rather than simply reacting to guidance after the fact. This forward-looking approach has proven particularly valuable as clients navigate the convergence of digital assets, derivatives, prediction markets and artificial intelligence.

Alex starts by understanding his clients’ business objectives and the specific regulatory challenges they face. From there, he develops a legal strategy that aligns with their commercial goals — whether that’s launching a prediction market platform, bringing a digital asset product to market, or managing ongoing compliance obligations across multiple regulatory regimes. Throughout the process, Alex focuses on providing clear, actionable guidance that helps clients make informed decisions at every critical juncture.

Recent work includes advising clients on the launch of the first retail leveraged spot product on a CFTC-regulated exchange, counseling prediction market operators, advising market participants on broker-dealer regulation, and AI governance in trading systems.

Alex regularly publishes insights and speaks at industry events on digital assets, derivatives regulation, and AI governance. Recent articles appear in the Financial Markets and Funds Quick Take and leading industry publications.

Before attending Columbia Law School, where Alex was a Harlan Fiske Stone Scholar, Alex served as a sergeant in the Republic of Korea Air Force. He was also recognized as a Public Interest Honoree for his dedication to pro bono work. In 2025, Alex received Katten’s John P. Sieger Excellence in Mentoring Award.

If clients are navigating regulatory questions in prediction markets, digital assets, derivatives or financial markets, Alex welcomes the opportunity to discuss how he can help.

News

Publications

Quick Reads

Presentations and Events

Practices
Education
  • Columbia Law School, JD, Harlan Fiske Stone Scholar
  • Dartmouth College, BA
Bar Admissions
  • New York
Community Involvements
  • Asian American Bar Association of New York
  • International Association of Privacy Professionals, AI Governance Professional Certification
  • Wall Street Blockchain Alliance
Recognitions
Recognized or listed in the following:
  • Katten John P. Sieger Excellence in Mentoring Award
    2025
Award Methodologies