The Legal Framework for New Digital Assets, Identities, and Data Spaces. Introduction
摘要
The Internet has significantly transformed society, fostering technological literacy and reshaping business transactions through advancements like blockchain and distributed ledger technologies (DLT). Traditional business concepts are evolving as users increasingly engage with digital identities and smart contracts. This introductory chapter outlines the legal frameworks for emerging digital assets, identities, and the Internet of Value, with a focus on the European context, particularly Spain. Despite the rise of Big Tech, which centralises data, there are persistent trends towards decentralisation, exemplified by peer-to-peer networks and blockchain. These developments raise concerns about the monopolisation of digital infrastructure and the potential need for a “new social contract” regarding digital identity and ownership. Regulatory frameworks must adapt to address the unique legal and security challenges posed by cryptocurrencies and digital assets. As Europe navigates this transformation, initiatives like the Markets in Crypto-assets Regulation (MiCA) and the Digital Euro Package aim to create coherent legal structures. This work emphasises the importance of securing trust in the digital economy while considering the implications of emerging technologies and the evolving landscape of digital finance.