What legal considerations should I be aware of when raising funds for a private equity fund?

Raising funds through an ICO is legally possible —but only if you navigate securities laws, money‐transmission rules and (often) state “blue‐sky” requirements. Below is a roadmap to the U.S. legal framework you must consider; I’ve included statute citations and SEC guidance where relevant. 1. Determine Whether Your Token Is a “Security” Key Point: If your token meets the definition of an “investment contract” under U.S. law, it’s a security. Selling a security to U.S. investors without registration (or a valid exemption) violates the Securities Act of 1933 and the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Conduct a “Howey analysis” for your token. Retain counsel to document why—factually and legally—you believe it’s not a security (if that’s your position). But be prepared that the SEC will likely view it as a security offering. 2. If It’s a Security, Register or Find an Exemption Choose the exemption that best fits (e.g., 506(c) if you have only accredited investors and want to market openly). File Form D for Reg D, or engage an SEC-registered crowdfunding portal for Reg CF, or go through Form 1-A for Reg A+. Each has different reporting burdens and limitations. 3. State (“Blue‐Sky”) Securities Laws Even if you rely on a federal exemption like Reg D Rule 506, most states impose their own registration or notice filings. For each state where you permit a sale, either file the required Form U-2 (for 506 offerings) or register/claim exemption. Most startups rely on the uniform notice procedure under 506 to simplify compliance. 4. Anti-Money Laundering (AML) / Know-Your-Customer (KYC) Rules Even if you structure your ICO as a non-security (which is rare), you must still comply with anti-money-laundering laws if your token is considered a “virtual currency” under FinCEN’s rules. If you accept USD (or other fiat) in exchange for tokens, register as an MSB with FinCEN, build out an AML compliance program, obtain state money-transmitter licenses where required (e.g., New York BitLicense), and integrate a robust KYC/AML vendor at token sale. I have been heavily involved in this space since 2017 - feel free to reach out John@BenemeritoLaw.com

Your question does not have a quick or answer, and is highly dependent the very specific facts of your company, your industry, and potential investors, but, the short answer is: yes. The offering memorandum is just that: a (non-binding) offer to sell securities in your company. There are other documents that will have to be prepared if an investor agrees to fund you. Those documents and the underlying "advertising" for the sale of those securities are, as you likely know, very strictly regulated by the SEC and California (under the Blue Sky rules). Run afoul of them to your detriment and you may need very expensive attorneys. We highly recommend you consult with experienced securities attorneys who can help you craft the offering memo, subscription agreements, etc. to address the issues specific to your company and potential investors. Perhaps not the full answer you are looking for, but hopefully a wise note of caution.

Sales tax nexus is the minimum contacts that a seller has with a state that would require it to register to do business within the state and file sales tax returns. Examples of activities that may create sales tax nexus include having a warehouse in the state and physical delivery of goods into the state. Disclaimer - This information is provided for general informational purposes only. No information contained in this post should be construed as legal advice and does not establish an attorney-client relationship.

You will need a consulting agreement and terms and conditions to start. Depending on your business, you may need more agreements. Disclaimer - This information is provided for general informational purposes only. No information contained in this post should be construed as legal advice and does not establish an attorney-client relationship.

S Corporations are not legally required to have operating agreements. They have bylaws that govern their operations. Disclaimer - This information is provided for general informational purposes only. No information contained in this post should be construed as legal advice and does not establish an attorney-client relationship.