Research on a Treasury Entity

Introduction:

This post reviews the current structure of POOL token governance and researches if adjustments might be beneficial based on how token governance has evolved.

POOL Token Governance:

Decentralized governance of the protocol began with the launch of the POOL token two years ago. The POOL token is a governance token with two major facets. The first is managing protocol parameters and second is managing the further distribution of POOL tokens (source).

In the 2 years since the POOL token has launched these two purposes have not changed but we have seen a large evolution in what this looks like practically.

POOL as Distribution Management

At launch the POOL distribution management function was limited to only the distribution of the POOL token itself. However, roughly 4 months after launching POOL the first non-POOL assets came under token holder control. This came about with a treasury diversification proposal voted on in late May of 2021. At that time, $5,950,000 of USDC was transferred to the protocol by accredited investors.

In addition to this treasury diversification two other things happened. The first was that more assets incidentally accrued to the protocol via airdrops or token incentives. The second was that the community showed an interest in managing these assets to ensure a stable and large treasury was available to help the PoolTogether protocol grow.

It’s important to note that although the composition of the treasury has changed, the purpose of the treasury has always been clear – to serve the security and growth of the protocol. In this sense, it has acted similar to an on-chain foundation or non-profit making distributions to benefit the protocol and the depositors in the protocol.

To summarize, since the launch of the POOL token, the function of POOL token distribution has (through well-intentioned community proposals) developed into a desire to grow and maintain a PoolTogether treasury. These changes warrant an assessment on the best structure for the PoolTogether treasury.

Current Structure
As of today, people who contribute to the protocol do so through various affiliations or capacities (for example, I contribute via my work at PoolTogether Inc) but there is no entity that represents the protocol itself or the protocol treasury.

For protocols like PoolTogether with tokenized governance, the absence of a formal legal entity structure may well be sufficient. The PoolTogether protocol is decentralized both in terms of how it operates and also the distribution of the POOL token, making a legal entity structure potentially unnecessary. This is particularly true since the protocol has a very limited foot-print of contributors in the United States. Most legal structure analysis is optimized for the United States. So there does not seem to be a real operational or governance-related need for an entity to represent the protocol.

However, even though there is not a need to create an entity for the protocol, there are potential benefits that can be realized by creating an entity for the protocol treasury.

  • Having an entity can clarify contributor goals and structure. Look at the role the Ethereum Foundation plays as an example.
  • Because no entity exists specifically to steward the protocol, many people incorrectly view PoolTogether Inc as being this entity. This leads to confusion on the role PoolTogether Inc and its employees play in the ecosystem.
  • Having an entity offers the ability for that entity to enter into contracts and otherwise deploy treasury funds off-chain.
  • Having an entity offers legal and tax risk mitigation for the use of treasury funds in an evolving regulatory environment

These things become especially important in relation to the evolving role of the POOL token as it relates to the treasury. The changing composition of assets controlled by POOL token holders warrants a closer look at potential tax and or regulatory requirements that need to correspondingly be addressed.

Given this, it is our view that having some type of structure for the protocol treasury would benefit the overall community and provide more clarity around the goals of the treasury.

Possible Structures:

PoolTogether Inc has spent some time researching different options to be able to present something that best aligns with the ethos of the PoolTogether community.

If the community wanted to elect to create an entity that represents the protocol treasury there are many possible structures this could take.

Before discussing entity types, it’s important to note that we’re only talking about moving a portion of what we know as PoolTogether today. We’re proposing that the Treasury be wrapped in an entity, while the protocol itself will expressly not fall within an entity and instead remain immutable, autonomous, and on-chain.

In researching options for legal entities, we used a16z’s entity selection framework and Paradigm’s DAO entity matrix as overviews and guides for proposing the best fit for PoolTogether. These are a great starting point for the community to dive deeper on the topic.

In assessing these structures, we took into account a few key facts about the community and history of the protocol. Though there are many options, our research narrowed to a notable few that we felt were worth highlighting for the community:

UNA

Description: UNA stands for “Unincorporated Nonprofit Association” and is recognized

by state law in the United States. It can offer limited liability similar to corporations and LLCs while also retaining some of the fluidity and anonymity of token membership.

Formation Costs and Complexity: Relatively low, <$50k

Discussion: Most flexible option that would be minimally disruptive to how the treasury is run today and relatively simple/cost-effective to set up. Does locate the treasury under US jurisdiction and tax law which is not most reflective of how the activity operates today.

Ownerless Cayman Foundation

Description: A foundation is formed (often in the Cayman Islands or Switzerland) and a treasury is transferred to it. The foundation is “ownerless” but controlled by a board that has fiduciary obligations to the community.

Formation Costs and Complexity: Relatively high, ~$100k for set-up and >$10k annual maintenance.

Discussion: This would be more expensive and time-consuming up front but has advantages in that it can 1) limit and clarify the use of the treasury to align with the original purpose and 2) has been widely used in the industry for comparable situations.

Marshall Islands Non-profit DAO LLC

Description: The Marshall Islands has passed legislation encouraging DAOs to register (with a non-profit option that fits PoolTogether’s circumstances). Registration does require a few members to KYC, but otherwise treasury operation can remain largely on-chain and as it functions today.

Formation Costs and Complexity: Relatively low, <$50k

Discussion: This option is newer (legislation being approved as recently as last year). It offers a similar profile to offshore foundations with a lower upfront cost and express recognition of on-chain entities in the legislation.

Recommendation:

Based on our analysis, we believe the Marshall Islands Non-profit DAO LLC is best suited as an entity for the protocol treasury. This is for a few reasons.

  • The non-profit model aligns with the protocols social good purpose and stated mission
  • The structure a flexible membership model allowing for anonymous members and the ability for people to seamlessly transition in and out (up to 25% of token ownership)
  • The protocol’s token holders and contributors are not predominantly located in the United States
  • While relatively new, we like that the Marshall Islands has created a registration process expressly for on-chain entities indicating a willingness to evolve with the industry.
  • People contributing to the protocol will benefit from structural and regulatory clarity
  • The LLC can enter into contracts and mitigate concerns around tax treatment for treasury funds.

We believe this recommendation strikes the right balance for the community with significant weight being given to 1) The degree of protocol contribution activity outside of the US and 2) the ethos and structure of the existing community 3) the non-profit purpose of the protocol treasury 4) a forward-looking structure that allows for flexibility.

Overall, although the treasury remaining entityless is a valid option we believe the benefits that come from having an entity representing the protocol outweigh costs.

What Would Change?

After reading this, you might be wondering what this would look like practically. If the Marshall Islands Nonprofit LLC entity was adopted, practically speaking, very little would change. It would primarily be enshrining the purpose and structure of the treasury legally.

The governance process around voting to make distributions would not change. Some members of the community would be required to interface with the Marshall Islands and/or advisors, to setup the entity. The entity would need to adhere to the laws and reporting requirements as outlined by the Marshall Islands

Next Steps:

This post is intended to inform community members of our research so far and invite feedback.

Ultimately, PoolTogether Inc will not take the lead on implementing this structure. We are happy to continue to give our input and help in the process but we believe it’s important for the community to take ownership of this.

The first practical next step is seeing if there is alignment.

Do people see value in creating an entity to represent the treasury? Would people like to suggest alternative options or paths? Our hope is this post is a springboard for that conversation.

If there appears to be alignment, we would recommend the following next steps:

  1. A token holder vote to provisionally approve adopting the entity for the treasury subject to further research, delegation of the authority to certain community members to confirm tax analyses and interface with MIDAO to form the entity and other independent lawyers to confirm the analysis.
  2. These delegates will continue to provide updates on research and the rapidly changing legal treatment of DAOs/protocol entities as we move towards a final structure.
  3. A final vote ratify the outcome of step 1.
I would support further research on this topic?
  • Yes
  • No
0 voters
I would support the implementation of the Marshall Islands Non-Profit LLC
  • Yes
  • No
0 voters
2 Likes

As someone based in the United States, naturally I gravitate towards the UNA. Though, that feeling is not all too rational. The U.S. has used draconian measures to stifle innovation in crypto. It’s been relentless, suffocating and bleak. All the while peddling their CBDCs. https://twitter.com/jchervinsky/status/1640536163399131137?s=20

“The law firm that litigated the original Operation Chokepoint case in 2014 just published a whitepaper explaining how the banking regulators are using the same unlawful threats and pressure tactics against the crypto industry in 2023.”

Meanwhile, Hong Kong is doing the exact opposite. https://twitter.com/crypto/status/1640544876113670145?s=20

"Hong Kong regulators are convening a meeting between crypto firms and bankers in a bid to ease financing for the sector as the city seeks to establish itself as a hub for virtual assets.

The round-table will take place on April 28 at the Hong Kong Monetary Authority “to facilitate direct dialog” and “share practical experiences and perspectives in opening and maintaining bank accounts,” according to details of the event seen by Bloomberg News. The session will be held jointly by the HKMA and the Securities and Futures Commission, the two regulators overseeing stablecoins and crypto exchanges."

Therefore, if I had to use my BRAIN, I would go with the Marshall Islands Non-profit DAO LLC. The forward thinking legislation encouraging DAOs to register is a welcomed change of pace from the oppressiveness of the EU and NA.

Admittedly, I had to consult a map to see where the Marshall Island were, lol. In short, governments that are welcoming to the crypto industry as a whole should be rewarded. The only drawback I see is that registering anywhere else outside of the United States can be seen as suspicious and “shadowy” to the uninitiated. Like, oh, “Of course this illegal lottery is keeping their funds off-shore”. Now, I’m obviously just playing the part of a hare-brained, numbskull. PoolTogether is the furthest thing from that! That’ll be evident when the lawsuit gets dismissed.

The protocol treasury also should not be beholden to a country’s laws that most of you all don’t reside in. Now, I don’t think any of you live in the Marshall Islands, but you get the point. The Marshall Islands do have a legitimate and stable government. I’m pulling the below straight from Wikipedia. All in all, I would support the implementation of the Marshall Island Non-Profit LLC. The United States has not only spewed vitriol against this industry, but actively sabotaged and suppressed it. If they even showed an ounce or modicum of sense and openness towards this new technology, then registering in the US would be a no-brainer. That would offer the most legitimacy.

But as a growing, forward-thinking, burgeoning industry we shouldn’t try to appeal to those trying to choke us out. Plus, aren’t all of us Poolies ready for the beach? Marshall Islands here we come (should the community unanimously agree - of course!) Or, whatever the threshold might be! I assume this would be a normal PTIP , like PTIP-13 (Proposal #11)? Answer:

I still can’t believe that was nearly 2 years ago now. And the bulk of us are still here! That’s something to be proud of. There has never been a more exciting time to be a member of this community. I’m genuinely super glad to just be a small part of it.

Here’s the Wikipedia blurb I mentioned above about the Marshall Islands:

“The U.S. government formed the Congress of Micronesia in 1965, a plan for increased self-governance of Pacific islands. The Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands in May 1979 provided independence to the Marshall Islands, whose constitution and president (Amata Kabua) were formally recognized by the US. Full sovereignty or self-government was achieved in a Compact of Free Association with the United States. Marshall Islands has been a member of the Pacific Community (SPC) since 1983 and a United Nations member state since 1991.[12] Politically, the Marshall Islands is a parliamentary republic with an executive presidency in free association with the United States, with the U.S. providing defense, subsidies, and access to U.S.-based agencies such as the Federal Communications Commission and the United States Postal Service. With few natural resources, the islands’ wealth is based on a service economy, as well as fishing and agriculture; aid from the United States represents a large percentage of the islands’ gross domestic product, but most financial aid from the Compact of Free Association expires in 2023.[14] As of June 2022, negotiations regarding an extension of the aid period were ongoing.[15] The country uses the United States dollar as its currency. In 2018, it also announced plans for a new cryptocurrency to be used as legal tender.[16][17]”

For all you Poolers and Poolies who have been on this wild journey, here’s a funny:
https://twitter.com/Cryptofung/status/1640405795966795781?s=20

This doesn’t even include the implosion of Terra - lol. We’ve been through it all, heads down.

1 Like

Deleted my previous post after realizing I misunderstood the intentions of this discussion. My initial thought was that this proposal intended to create something like a foundation and that treasury funds would be transferred offchain. This was not correct, it seems a treasury entity would be more of a declaration of where the treasury resides. Personally I still find it unnecessary as I don’t feel the risk of POOL holders being held liable for any wrongdoings is a big concern, but I respect the opinions of those who are concerned about those risks. I think we should first focus on the big picture of fund management in regards to how we will afford to incentivize contributors, developers, and depositors years down the road and ensure adequate benefits to holding POOL. Managing a depleting treasury and governing a new protocol that is designed to be autonomous likely aren’t enough.

3 Likes

Bumping this Thread here again because we recently talked a bit about it during the council call and a Governance Entity could be a requirement for requesting Incentives on OP, Arbitrum or zkSync if we launch V5 there and want to request them. Could also be helpful in other Governance related stuff. The post itself is a bit older but contains good information if we wanna pursue this, so wanna give everyone the chance to read through it.

4 Likes

as @Brendan has clarified today, the treasury is the only real - albeit crucial - asset left for governance, so it made sense to pursue the establishment of a more formal and legal entity to protect it.

we always talk about capture resistance in context of DAOs and protocols. with the unfortunate tendency of US government agencies to consider everything belonging to its regulatory and enforcement sphere if only one US citizen is involved, this term has another meaning. a more legal structure that is established outside of the US will hopefully prevent such infringement.

5 Likes

Just wanting to keep people updated here, talked with Brendan and others about this topic and I will get in contact with MiDao to get more information how the process would work, what the costs are and what benefits/drawbacks this would entail.
I would make a new gov post with that info and then governance can discuss it and eventually approve the budget and we make this legal entity.

5 Likes

appreciate you taking the lead on this important topic, lonser!

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Dear PoolTogether DAO -

My name is Alex, I’m from DAObox team. We’ve noticed this thread and discussions related to POOL DAO structuring, and would like to propose our DAO wrapping service for your consideration.

DAObox’s service currently has no competitors in the market, and it comprehensively covers all three crucial stages of a structure’s lifecycle: design, formation, and operation, allowing you to get everything that’s needed for DAO structuring in one go.

Why DAObox?

Decentralized Design: Structures we design are ultimately controlled by the DAO through robust control mechanisms. A well-designed system of checks and balances provides full protection for DAO members and property.

Anonymity: DAObox acts as founder of the structure, undergoing all KYC checks and screenings ourselves. This shields the DAO contributors and members from exposure and risks, allowing them to remain anonymous.

In-Fact Management: After formation, we assume the roles of director and supervisor of the newly established wrapper. Our team de facto operates the structure and administers its day-to-day operations within the mandate and under the supervision of the DAO.

Efficiency: As we conduct in-fact administration of the wrapper, the DAO is relieved from needing to hire C-level managers, service providers, and other personnel typically required to manage and operate the structure. We have all these areas covered.

Protection: As the managers and only persons accountable for the operation of the legal wrapper, we absorb all risks associated with the operation of the legal wrapper.

Frameworks

DAObox is compatible with all legal frameworks currently available for DAO structuring.

In addition to the previously mentioned MiDAO DAO LLC form, we can also structure the POOL DAO legal wrapper as an ownerless foundation in the Cayman Islands. This would be an optimal choice for DAOs that wish to establish a wrapper separate from the DAO itself (where the wrapper does not absorb the DAO). This separate entity would act as an anchor within the DAO ecosystem, responsible for significant undertakings such as IP and asset ownership and protection, operational interfaces, infrastructure, grant programs, and more. In this case, the DAO would retain direct control over the treasury, smart-contracts and multisigs.

It’s crucial to note that either option necessitates the assignment of management and staff to the new structure. However, with DAObox, there’s no need for the DAO to allocate key contributors or risk exposure. Our service includes assignment of a dedicated team equipped to take on directorial and supervisory responsibilities, guaranteeing efficient management of the newly formed entity on a daily basis.

Links

Explainer video - DAObox: Complete Legal Management Solutions for DAOs & Web3 Communities | Ultimate DAO Guide - YouTube
Service deck - DocSend
Documentation - https://docs.daobox.io/
Gearbox Case Study - Case Study – Gearbox DAO - DAObox

I will check back on this thread to answer any questions you may have and provide additional information on our potential engagement if necessary. Feel free to ping me if you have any questions.

Best regards,

Alex

Hey @AlexDAObox

thanks for your post. I do have some questions:

  1. Where is Daobox Inc. registered? Could you provide some background to the company?
  2. Who are the founders? Where are they based?
  3. Why should the community pay more money and give away more rights than if they would go with Midao?
  4. The website mentions it employs people from “AURUM Law Firm” but also lists the disclaimer of not being a law firm and giving legal advice. Can you please explain this relationship?

This thread offers a ton of research and background on the communities perspective, but your message feels more like a cold call.

Not sure if this is true?

2 Likes

Hi @Tjark,

Thank you for your questions.

(a) DAObox Inc., the managing entity, is registered in Panama; its group further encompasses entities based in the United Kingdom and UAE. The project was initiated by the founders of AURUM Law Firm, who are located in Europe and the UAE.

(b) Within the group, AURUM handles all legal services and related engagements. While the scope of DAObox’s services doesn’t include legal services, it does encompass administration, formation services, and everything necessary to establish and operate a wrapper.

(c) To address the question of why the POOL DAO should engage DAObox instead of directly establishing the wrapper, let me delve into the details:

  • We know how to design the most efficient DAO structures and understand mistakes made by other DAOs. We develop robust control mechanisms, checks and balances, governance and emergency procedures, and more, all of which are crucial for safeguarding both DAO members and the property involved.

  • We provide a robust shield for DAO contributors against legal exposure and risk. This enables them to maintain anonymity, if they wish, and stay away from any legal commitments. We undergo the KYC procedures and screenings, and handle all formation matters, acting as both the de jure and de facto founder of the wrapper.

  • Regardless of whether the DAO opts for the MiDAO DAO LLC or another form, the wrapper needs active operation and management. This would ordinarily require a number of DAO contributors to disclose their identities, assume managerial roles, and take responsibilities for everyday operations. By engaging with DAObox, all these concerns are addressed. We assume the managerial roles and take responsibility for the wrapper operation for 2 years (can be extended), assigning our own personnel to deal with everyday issues and administer the structure. In other words, we substitute other personnel and service providers, saving resources for the DAO. Additional details on scope can be found here.

(d) The service stands unmatched in the market, as no other provider offers such a comprehensive scope of service, deep involvement, and unparalleled protection for the DAO, all at such competitive pricing.

Should you have any further questions, please let me know.