Episode 25: Cryptocurrency and National Security - Insights from Inca Digital
We sit down with Adam Zarazinski, CEO of Inca Digital, a leading fintech company specializing in data and analytics for the digital asset ecosystem, to discuss the role of cryptocurrency in national security and intelligence operations.
Adam shares his unique journey from Interpol to the U.S. Air Force JAG Corps to founding Inca. We discuss how Inca helps government agencies and financial institutions manage cryptocurrency risks and ensuring the safety and integrity of digital asset transactions. Adam also describes the innovative ways Inca supports the national security mission, ranging from tackling terrorist financing through open source intelligence (OSINT) gathering on cryptocurrency exchanges, identifying sanctioned Russian banks using crypto, and Inca’s discovery of Chinese-owned crypto mining facilities near U.S. Air Force bases. We also discuss the complexities of international regulatory environments, and the critical need for the United States to foster the development of Web 3.0 and bring more crypto operations onshore to better protect consumers and support law enforcement efforts.
Tune in to hear real-world examples of how Inca is combating illicit activities in the crypto space, such as the role of cryptocurrency in evading sanctions and "pig butchering" scams, where unsuspecting individuals are defrauded of billions annually. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of national security, law, and the rapidly evolving world of digital assets.
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Episode 24: In-Q-Tel and Investing in National Security
In this episode, we sit down with Steve Bowsher, the CEO of In-Q-Tel, the non-profit venture capital firm supporting the intelligence community. Steve shares his extensive background and provides an inside look at In-Q-Tel's mission to bridge the gap between the intelligence community and technological innovation.
We discuss the process by which In-Q-Tel identifies and invests in emerging technologies, supports startup companies, and accelerates the deployment of critical capabilities to U.S. government agencies. We explore the unique ways In-Q-Tel operates and the types of technologies it seeks including AI, cybersecurity, unmanned systems, and cutting-edge biotechnology. We also discuss how industry partners can connect with In-Q-Tel and pitch their technologies.
Tune in to learn more about the vital role In-Q-Tel plays in ensuring technological advancements serve both commercial and government needs, and what lies ahead for this innovative organization.
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Episode 23: Japan and International Security
In this episode, we cover the long standing alliance between the United States and Japan, and its future trajectory in the face of regional and global security challenges.
We discuss Japan’s evolving defense posture, highlighting significant changes since Japan’s introduction of new national defense strategies in 2023 and an increase in military spending. We explore the implications of Japan's evolving role in regional security in the Indo-Pacific, particularly in response to China's growing power and North Korea's missile program. The episode also covers Japan's potential future participation in alliances such as the Five Eyes and AUKUS, and the challenges and opportunities for Japan's defense industrial base. Finally, we spotlight recent legislative changes in Japan establishing a government security clearance program, which marks a significant step towards deeper integration with global security frameworks.
Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of how these developments shape the strategic landscape in the Indo-Pacific and beyond.
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Episode 22: European defense strategy and global security implications
Returning after our long winter break, in this episode (recorded on NATO’s 75th Anniversary) we are joined by our colleague Falk Schoening from our Brussels office to discuss the European Union's (EU) €1.5 billion plan to boost defense production and the release of the EU’s first-ever defense industrial strategy. We highlight the EU's transition towards addressing security challenges collaboratively, and the significance of the EU defense strategy as a departure from previous civil-centric approaches. We explore cross-border procurement challenges and efforts to streamline regulations and foster collaboration to enhance defense industrial capabilities among EU members. We also talk about capital flows into Europe and increasing investment in defense companies after years of underinvestment at a time when current security threats are generating a greater sense of urgency. The conversation extends to Europe's role in supporting Ukraine amidst geopolitical tensions, including Germany's supply effort. We touch upon Europe's perspective on US-China tensions and the implications for EU-China relations. Finally, we discuss Europe’s preparedness for potential U.S. policy shifts ahead of this year's U.S. election.
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Episode 21: U.S.-China relations and the global economy
In this episode, we are joined by our colleague Ben Kostrzewa from our Hong Kong office, who brings extensive experience in navigating the complex landscape of U.S.-China trade relations, export control, sanctions, and investment restrictions.
We discuss President Biden's recent bilateral meetings with Xi Jinping in San Francisco, signaling prospects for future discussions, albeit with lingering concerns over potential conflict triggers. We also delve into China's economic setbacks post-COVID, including a notable downturn after decades of consistent growth, and we look at Hong Kong's evolving role within China's economy and highlight Hong Kong’s enduring advantages for businesses operating in the region. Finally, we look ahead to 2024, where we consider Taiwan's January presidential election and China's economic trajectory as potential challenges for the future.
The recent Biden – Xi meetings were held at the same time as the APEC and IPEF forums in San Francisco. See our related episode with Kelly Ann Shaw on APEC/IPEF here.
In this age of rapid technological advances, having a dedicated team of lawyers to help navigate the challenges and threats of national security is crucial. At Hogan Lovells, national security is baked into virtually all practice areas and industries, from clothing affected by the Uyghur forced labor bill, or the myriad impacts of the Ukraine war, or political conditions in a country of importance to a client. The Hogan Lovells National Security Podcast, hosted by Mike Scheimer and Tim Bergreen, will provide an overview of key developments as well as informative segments on issues that are affecting the day-to-day goals of businesses and organizations.
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