Steven Spalten

The hearings are focused on the regulation of virtual currencies. The goal is to provide a 360-degree view of the virtual currency industry, considering both its potential and its risks. The discussion includes the potential for innovation and benefits to consumers and businesses, as well as concerns about money laundering, security breaches, and price volatility. The hearings also address the need for regulatory clarity and the possibility of issuing a bit license specific to virtual currency transactions.

The hearings address the challenges posed by virtual currency, including money laundering, drug trafficking, and other felonies. Discussions covered the potential benefits of virtual currencies, alternative currencies, and legal issues related to regulation. The law enforcement panel talked about the dark side of virtual currency and how to account for it in regulation. The importance of tools for prosecutors to protect the public from illegal conduct stemming from payment systems was emphasized. Licensing digital currency exchanges as money transmitters and enhanced due diligence were suggested.

The hearing was held to consider the application by CVS Health Corporation and CVS Pharmacy Inc. to acquire Aetna Health Insurance Company of New York. The transaction has potential benefits but also presents potential risks to markets, consumers, and the people of the State of New York. DFS's specific approval authority relates to the proposed acquisition by CVS of Aetna Health Insurance Company of New York. The United States Department of Justice has also approved the CVS-Aetna transaction subject to a consent decree requiring the divestiture by Aetna of its Medicare Part D prescription coverage. Concerns were raised about the impact on premiums, pharmaceutical costs, and market competition.

The State Charter Advisory Board meetings in 2023 covered a range of topics including overdraft practices, the Department's examination process, and the attractiveness of the New York State charter. Discussions also focused on climate change risks, virtual currency-related activities, commercial real estate, and regulatory capital requirements. The board addressed cybersecurity regulations, banking climate guidance, and lending practices to multifamily residential buildings, aiming to balance consumer protection with the safety and competitiveness of New York-regulated institutions.

The State Charter Advisory Board meetings in 2024 covered various topics, including cybersecurity, virtual currency guidance for banks and fintech companies, operational stress testing, and liquidity contingency planning. Discussions also focused on the Department of Financial Services' (DFS) initiatives, such as data governance practices and efforts to make the state banking charter competitive. Emerging issues like AI risks and the use of AI in cyberattacks were also addressed. The board discussed the FedNow® service and its adoption among New York State-chartered banks, as well as AI cybersecurity guidance.