BISON TRAILS BEEFS UP LEGAL COMPLIANCE TEAM WITH FORMER GOLDMAN SACHS EXEC

The rapidly evolving landscape of blockchain technology and cryptocurrencies demands robust legal and compliance frameworks.Recognizing this critical need, Bison Trails, a leading blockchain infrastructure-as-a-service company, has significantly strengthened its legal compliance team by appointing Elizabeth Ralston as its first general counsel. Bison Trails has appointed a new General Counsel, Elizabeth Ralston, former Director of BlockTower Capital and former Vice President of Goldman Sachs. Bison Trails is a company offering a service for creating, launching and managing a secure multi-blockchain, enterprise-class node infrastructure.This strategic move underscores Bison Trails' commitment to navigating the complex regulatory environment surrounding digital assets and solidifying its position as a trusted provider in the blockchain space. Prior to that, Michael served as co-legal director for the PWM Group in the US, senior counsel to GS.com and general counsel for Goldman Sachs Asset Management s US Mutual Funds Group. Michael joined Goldman Sachs in 2025 in the Legal Department. He was named managing director in 2025 and partner in 2025.Ralston, bringing a wealth of experience from both the traditional finance world at Goldman Sachs and the cutting-edge realm of crypto at BlockTower Capital, is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping Bison Trails' legal and compliance strategy.This appointment signifies a maturing of the blockchain industry, where proactive engagement with policymakers and adherence to legal regulations are becoming increasingly essential for sustainable growth. Bison Trails Beefs Up Legal Compliance Team With Former Goldman Sachs ExecRalston's expertise will be instrumental in ensuring that Bison Trails remains at the forefront of compliance while continuing to innovate and provide secure, reliable infrastructure solutions for its clients.This marks a new chapter for Bison Trails, demonstrating their serious commitment to responsible growth in a rapidly evolving industry.

Strategic Legal Leadership for Blockchain Innovation

Elizabeth Ralston's appointment as General Counsel marks a significant milestone for Bison Trails.Her responsibilities encompass overseeing all legal, risk, compliance, and policy matters within the organization. Discover (and save!) your own Pins on Pinterest.Given the novel and often ambiguous regulatory landscape surrounding blockchain technology, her role is critical in guiding the company's strategic direction and ensuring its long-term sustainability. This website is for Private Investors only. I am a private investorRalston's diverse background makes her exceptionally well-suited for this challenge.

Before joining Bison Trails, Ralston held key positions at both established financial institutions and blockchain-focused firms, allowing her to develop a unique perspective that bridges the gap between traditional finance and the digital asset space.This perspective is invaluable as Bison Trails seeks to navigate the evolving regulatory landscape and engage with global policymakers.Ralston's deep understanding of both traditional finance and the intricacies of blockchain technologies makes her a perfect fit for the role of General Counsel.

Elizabeth Ralston: A Profile of Expertise

Ralston's professional journey reflects a dedication to both legal excellence and innovation. Bison Trails has hired BlockTower Capital s former legal and compliance director to be its first general counsel. Elizabeth Ralston will be in charge of all legal, risk, compliance and policy matters at the blockchain infrastructure startup. Prior to her time at BlockTower Capital, Ralston was aHer previous roles include:

• Vice President at Goldman Sachs: Gaining experience at a major global investment bank provided Ralston with a deep understanding of financial regulations, risk management, and corporate governance.
• Legal and Compliance Director at BlockTower Capital: This role immersed Ralston in the intricacies of the blockchain and cryptocurrency industry, allowing her to develop expertise in areas such as digital asset compliance, regulatory frameworks, and emerging technologies.

This combination of experiences positions Ralston as a uniquely qualified leader capable of navigating the complexities of the blockchain industry while upholding the highest standards of legal and ethical conduct.Her ability to bridge the gap between traditional finance and the decentralized world will be a valuable asset to Bison Trails as it continues to grow and innovate.

The Importance of Compliance in the Blockchain Space

The blockchain industry is characterized by its rapid innovation and evolving regulatory landscape.As a result, compliance is paramount for ensuring the long-term sustainability and success of blockchain-based businesses. Blockchain infrastructure-as-a-service company Bison Trails announced Aug. 4 that it has appointed a general counsel to focus on policy and regulatory issues specific to blockchainA strong compliance program not only mitigates legal and regulatory risks but also fosters trust and confidence among customers, partners, and investors.

Here's why compliance is so critical in the blockchain space:

• Navigating Regulatory Uncertainty: The regulatory landscape for blockchain technology and cryptocurrencies is still evolving. Kathryn Ruemmler is Chief Legal Officer and General Counsel. She serves on the Management Committee and is Chair of the Firmwide Conduct Committee. Ms. Ruemmler is also Co-Vice Chair of the Firmwide Reputational Risk Committee and a member of the Firmwide Enterprise Risk Committee. She joined Goldman Sachs in 2025 as a Partner.Companies must stay informed about the latest developments and adapt their compliance programs accordingly.
• Mitigating Legal Risks: Non-compliance can result in significant fines, penalties, and reputational damage. Blockchain infrastructure provider Bison Trails has hired BlockTower Capital s former compliance director to be its first general counsel.A robust compliance program helps companies avoid these risks.
• Building Trust and Confidence: A strong compliance program demonstrates a commitment to ethical conduct and responsible innovation, which can build trust with stakeholders.
• Facilitating Growth and Adoption: As the blockchain industry matures, compliance will become increasingly important for attracting institutional investors and fostering widespread adoption.

Bison Trails' Commitment to Regulatory Engagement

Bison Trails' decision to appoint a General Counsel underscores its commitment to actively engaging with global policymakers and contributing to the development of clear and consistent regulations for the blockchain industry.Ralston's expertise will enable Bison Trails to:

• Monitor Regulatory Developments: Stay abreast of the latest regulatory changes in various jurisdictions around the world.
• Advocate for Responsible Regulation: Engage with policymakers to promote balanced and effective regulations that foster innovation while protecting consumers and investors.
• Ensure Compliance with Applicable Laws: Implement and maintain robust compliance programs to ensure adherence to all applicable laws and regulations.

By actively participating in the regulatory dialogue, Bison Trails aims to play a leading role in shaping the future of the blockchain industry and ensuring its long-term viability.This proactive approach to regulatory engagement sets Bison Trails apart and demonstrates its commitment to responsible growth.

The Role of General Counsel in a Blockchain Company

The role of General Counsel in a blockchain company is multifaceted and demanding.It requires a deep understanding of both legal principles and blockchain technology, as well as the ability to navigate complex regulatory challenges.Key responsibilities typically include:

• Providing Legal Advice: Advising the company on a wide range of legal matters, including corporate governance, securities law, intellectual property, and data privacy.
• Managing Litigation and Disputes: Overseeing any legal disputes or litigation involving the company.
• Developing and Implementing Compliance Programs: Creating and maintaining compliance programs to ensure adherence to all applicable laws and regulations.
• Engaging with Regulators: Communicating with regulatory agencies and advocating for the company's interests.
• Negotiating and Drafting Contracts: Negotiating and drafting contracts with customers, partners, and vendors.

In the context of blockchain technology, the General Counsel must also be familiar with emerging legal issues such as smart contracts, token sales, and decentralized autonomous organizations (DAOs).This requires a continuous learning approach and a willingness to adapt to the ever-changing landscape.

Why Bison Trails Chose Elizabeth Ralston

The selection of Elizabeth Ralston as General Counsel was a strategic decision driven by her unique qualifications and experience.Bison Trails sought a leader who could not only navigate the complex legal and regulatory landscape but also contribute to the company's overall strategic vision.Ralston's proven track record in both traditional finance and the blockchain industry made her the ideal candidate.

Specifically, Bison Trails valued Ralston's:

• Deep understanding of financial regulations: Her experience at Goldman Sachs provided her with a solid foundation in financial regulations, risk management, and corporate governance.
• Expertise in blockchain and cryptocurrency compliance: Her role at BlockTower Capital immersed her in the intricacies of the digital asset space, allowing her to develop expertise in areas such as AML/KYC compliance, securities law, and regulatory frameworks.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills: Her ability to communicate complex legal concepts clearly and effectively is essential for engaging with policymakers, customers, and internal stakeholders.
• Strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities: Her ability to analyze complex issues, identify potential risks, and develop creative solutions is critical for navigating the evolving regulatory landscape.

Beyond her technical skills, Ralston's passion for blockchain technology and her commitment to responsible innovation aligned perfectly with Bison Trails' core values.

The Future of Legal Compliance in the Blockchain Industry

As the blockchain industry continues to mature, legal compliance will become increasingly important. Bison Trails has hired BlockTower Capital s former legal and compliance director to be its first general counsel, reports Nathan DiCamillo in BitCoin s Business. Elizabeth Ralston will be in charge of all legal, risk, compliance and policy matters at the blockchain infrastructure startup.Companies that prioritize compliance will be better positioned to attract institutional investors, build trust with customers, and navigate the evolving regulatory landscape. 02-abr-2025 - Bison Trails takes on general counsel to engage with global policymakers on compliance and legal regulation mattersThe appointment of Elizabeth Ralston as General Counsel signals Bison Trails' recognition of this trend and its commitment to being a leader in compliance.

Several key trends are shaping the future of legal compliance in the blockchain industry:

1. Increased Regulatory Scrutiny: Regulators around the world are paying closer attention to the blockchain industry and are developing new rules and regulations to address issues such as money laundering, securities fraud, and consumer protection.
2. Greater Focus on AML/KYC Compliance: Anti-money laundering (AML) and Know Your Customer (KYC) compliance are becoming increasingly important for blockchain businesses, particularly those that handle cryptocurrencies.
3. Emergence of New Legal Frameworks: New legal frameworks are being developed to address the unique challenges posed by blockchain technology, such as smart contracts and DAOs.
4. Increased Collaboration Between Industry and Regulators: There is a growing recognition of the need for collaboration between industry and regulators to develop effective and balanced regulations that foster innovation while protecting consumers and investors.

Companies that proactively adapt to these trends and invest in robust compliance programs will be well-positioned for long-term success.

Examples of Compliance Challenges in Blockchain

The blockchain industry presents several unique compliance challenges.These include, but are not limited to:

• Decentralization: The decentralized nature of blockchain technology can make it difficult to identify and hold accountable those who violate the law.
• Anonymity: Cryptocurrencies can provide a degree of anonymity, which can be attractive to criminals seeking to launder money or finance illicit activities.
• Cross-Border Transactions: Blockchain transactions can easily cross national borders, making it difficult to enforce laws and regulations.
• Smart Contracts: Smart contracts can be complex and difficult to understand, which can create legal risks if they are not properly drafted and implemented.
• Token Sales: Token sales can be subject to securities laws, which can be complex and vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction.

Addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted approach that includes technical solutions, legal expertise, and collaboration with regulators.

Actionable Advice for Blockchain Companies on Compliance

For blockchain companies seeking to strengthen their compliance programs, here's some actionable advice:

1. Stay Informed: Keep abreast of the latest regulatory developments and adapt your compliance programs accordingly.
2. Conduct a Risk Assessment: Identify and assess the key compliance risks facing your business.
3. Develop a Compliance Program: Create a comprehensive compliance program that addresses all relevant risks.
4. Implement AML/KYC Procedures: Implement robust AML/KYC procedures to prevent money laundering and other illicit activities.
5. Train Your Employees: Provide regular training to your employees on compliance matters.
6. Monitor Transactions: Monitor transactions for suspicious activity.
7. Seek Legal Advice: Consult with legal counsel to ensure that your compliance programs are effective and compliant with applicable laws.
8. Collaborate with Regulators: Engage with regulatory agencies to stay informed about their expectations and to advocate for responsible regulation.

Conclusion: A New Era of Legal Rigor for Bison Trails

Bison Trails' appointment of Elizabeth Ralston as General Counsel represents a significant step towards solidifying its commitment to legal and regulatory compliance within the rapidly evolving blockchain landscape. Blockchain infrastructure company and Libra Association member Bison Trails Co. has tapped a former Goldman Sachs attorney as its first general counsel, Bison Trails announced Tuesday.Ralston's extensive experience at Goldman Sachs and BlockTower Capital provides her with a unique perspective to navigate the complexities of the industry, ensuring Bison Trails remains at the forefront of responsible innovation. ABOUT GOLDMAN SACHS. At Goldman Sachs, we commit our people, capital and ideas to help our clients, shareholders and the communities we serve to grow. Founded in 1869, we are a leading global investment banking, securities and investment management firm. Headquartered in New York, we maintain offices around the world.This strategic hire underscores the increasing importance of proactive legal engagement and robust compliance frameworks in the digital asset space, setting a strong example for other companies in the industry.By prioritizing compliance, Bison Trails is not only mitigating risks but also fostering trust, attracting institutional investors, and paving the way for sustainable growth in the exciting world of blockchain technology.This move positions Bison Trails as a leader committed to shaping the future of the blockchain industry in a responsible and compliant manner.