The use of digital securities or security tokens has coincided with the explosion of crypto-currencies and efforts to establish Internet-traded coins or tokens with utility as a form of currency. Lost amidst the enthusiasm over the revolutionary implications of crypto-currencies is the simple fact that security tokens which use block-chain technology and smart contracts have significant advantages over traditional platforms for issuing, holding and trading securities.

Version 0.0: Stock Certificates -

Historically, companies provided their equity owners with a physical stock certificate to evidence their share ownership. The owner’s name and number of shares are printed on the stock certificate. The stock certificate is authenticated by using a customized form and logo, impressing the company seal, and requiring the signatures of two authorized officers.