Virtually Everything | Series 2, Episode 4 | Tracing the Untraceable: Inside the World of Virtual Asset Investigations

In this episode of Virtually Everything, hosts Lucy and Vyasna are joined by Scott Pounder, Managing Director at FTI Consulting, to delve into the complex world of virtual asset tracing. Scott, with a background in law enforcement and blockchain analytics, provides an insider look at the challenges and strategies involved in tracking digital assets. He covers FTI's broad services in this space, from expert witness support to investigations, regulatory compliance, and blockchain advisory.

Scott breaks down the virtual asset tracing process, explaining how blockchain analysis tools and multi-tool verification help track assets across jurisdictions and even through sophisticated obstacles like mixers and privacy coins. He contrasts this with the often lengthy and complex process of tracing traditional assets, highlighting blockchain’s transparency advantages.

Scott shares real-life examples, including a multi-million dollar case that led to asset recovery and a pyramid scheme investigation where virtual assets were proven fictitious. He also touches on FTI’s global coordination efforts and legal considerations that can complicate cross-border investigations.

Tune in to this episode to gain valuable insights into the dynamic field of digital asset tracing, from the technical methods employed to the legal intricacies that professionals like Scott navigate every day.

This podcast forms part of the Virtually Everything podcast series. To find out more about the topics discussed in the series, please visit our dedicated Digital Assets and Blockchain page.