Beyond Fintech: Crypto compensation—designing token incentives that work

Joining the conversation:

• Hayde Faria, associate in our Compensation, Employment and Governance group
• Jai Garg, partner and long-time adviser on equity and token incentives

Together, they tackle:

• Why tokens are not equity—and why that distinction matters for plan design
• The three structures dominating today’s market: restricted tokens, token units, and phantom token units
• Section 409A, 83(b) elections and other tax landmines every grantor must navigate
• Securities-law flash points after Ripple—and how to keep awards compliant even if tokens are later deemed securities
• Administration essentials: smart-contract safeguards, third-party custodians and participant education
• The policy horizon: stable-coin salary potential, a friendlier DOL stance on crypto in 401(k)s, and what the GENESIS Act could mean for day-to-day pay

Whether you’re a start-up funding growth with tokens or an established player refreshing your incentive toolbox, this episode delivers the practical takeaways you need—minus the jargon.

Ready to future-proof your compensation strategy? Listen to the full podcast now and stay ahead of the curve.