Source: https://es.scribd.com/document/379798687/Bitcoin-Suisse-AG-Motion-to-Dismiss
Timestamp: 2019-04-25 23:42:17+00:00

Document:
24 ) Time: 1:30 p.m.
11 and the Declaration of Niklas Nikolajsen filed and served herewith and upon the papers. 13 DATED: May 15. 12 and pleadings on file herein. California 94102. contests jurisdiction by way of this motion.com 27 Attorneys for Bitcoin Suisse AG and Niklas Nikolajsen 28 1 DEFENDANT BITCOIN SUISSE’S MOTION TO DISMISS CASE NO. records. 3:17-CV-06779-RS .. 4 17th Floor. Presiado (SBN 166721) BROWN RUDNICK LLP 17 2211 Michelson Drive. 9 instead. the Memorandum and Points of Authorities. Presiado 16 Leo J.com 20 -and- 21 Sigmund S.com 26 jmeyers@brownrudnick. Defendant Bitcoin Suisse 5 AG will and hereby does move pursuant to Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 12(b)(2) and (6) for an 6 order dismissing this action on the ground that the court lacks personal jurisdiction over this 7 defendant and that Plaintiff has failed to state a claim against this defendant upon which relief can 8 be granted. or as soon thereafter as the 3 matter may be heard in the courtroom of the Honorable Richard Seeborg.m. CA 92612 18 Telephone: (949) 752-7100 19 Facsimile: (949) 252-1514 Email: lpresiado@brownrudnick. Case 3:17-cv-06779-RS Document 126 Filed 05/15/18 Page 6 of 23 1 TO PLAINTIFF AND ITS ATTORNEY OF RECORD: 2 PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that on July 19. located at Courtroom 3. 2018 at 1:30 p. 2018 14 BROWN RUDNICK LLP 15 By:/s/ Leo J. 450 Golden Gate Avenue. 10 This motion is based on this Notice of Motion. Wissner-Gross (admitted pro hac vice) 22 Jessica N. NY 10036 Tel: (212) 209-4800 25 Email: swissner-gross@brownrudnick. 7th Floor Irvine. Bitcoin Suisse AG neither consents nor submits to the jurisdiction of this Court and. Meyers (admitted pro hac vice) 23 BROWN RUDNICK LLP Seven Times Square 24 New York. San Francisco.
. which asserted only claims under 17 California securities laws. et al. 2018. See Notice of 27 Voluntary Dismissal. INTRODUCTION 14 At the end of 2017. was only named as a 16 defendant in one of the actions. 110]. On March 16. Cal.. 26 3 After consolidation. Cal. Dynamic Ledger Solutions. et al. asserting only two causes of action 21 1 As set forth below. 2018) [Dkt. 3:17-cv- 25 07095 (N. 5 2. appointing Arman Anvari as lead plaintiff 19 (“Plaintiff”). Bitcoin Suisse joins in and adopts the argument of Defendant Tezos 22 Stiftung that the Securities Act is not applicable to this action. MacDonald v. the MacDonald Action. 2018. 29. this Court issued an order consolidating three of the 18 four Tezos litigations. Inc.D.D. No. pursuant to Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 12(b)(2). Dynamic Ledger Solutions. the MacDonald Action was voluntarily dismissed. 101]. et al. 3 Plaintiff filed 20 his consolidated complaint (the “Complaint”) on April 3. Dynamic Ledger Solutions. Nov.D. et al.. Case No. LLC v. Inc. and for failure to 11 state a claim for violation of Sections 5 and 12(a)(1) of the Securities Act of 1933 pursuant to 12 Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 12(b)(6). 1 8 MEMORANDUM OF POINTS AND AUTHORITIES 9 Bitcoin Suisse AG submits this motion to the Consolidated Complaint [Dkt. Nov. 3:17-cv-06850 (N. Whether the Plaintiff’s claim against Bitcoin Suisse AG should be dismissed pursuant to 3 Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 12(b)(2) for lack of personal jurisdiction over Bitcoin 4 Suisse AG. 26. et al. 28. 2017). Case No. 2017).. Case 3:17-cv-06779-RS Document 126 Filed 05/15/18 Page 7 of 23 1 STATEMENT OF ISSUES 2 1. Apr. Dec. 24 Cal. 13 I. Case no. MacDonald v. Cal.. Okusko v... Case No. however.D. Dynamic Ledger Solutions. 2 Bitcoin Suisse AG (“Bitcoin Suisse”). No. Whether Plaintiff’s claim against Bitcoin Suisse AG should be dismissed pursuant to 6 Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 12(b)(6) because the Plaintiff fails to sufficiently state a 7 claim against Bitcoin Suisse AG under Section 12(a)(1) of the Securities Act of 1933. 108] for 10 lack of personal jurisdiction.. Inc. Nov. 3:17-cv- 07095 (N. 13. Inc. No. Cal.. Inc. Case No. 2 23 GGCC. 28 2 DEFENDANT BITCOIN SUISSE’S MOTION TO DISMISS CASE NO. 3:17-cv-06779 (N. Baker v.. 3:17-CV-06779-RS .D. four lawsuits were initiated before this Court in connection with Tezos’ 15 alleged coin offering. 3:17-cv-06829 (N. including the MacDonald Action. 2017). 20. 2017) (the “MacDonald Action”). and directing Plaintiff to file a consolidated complaint [Dkt. Dynamic Ledger Solutions.
See Complaint ¶ 26.” 24 5 This allegation regarding Bitcoin Suisse’s post-ICO role as a co-signatory does not appear 25 to be a jurisdictional allegation or have any relevance to the Section 12(a)(1) claim against Bitcoin Suisse.” and (3) 20 after the purported ICO. Bitcoin Suisse is only named as a defendant in Count I. only six paragraphs even identify Bitcoin Suisse by 16 name. quite 12 simply. Case 3:17-cv-06779-RS Document 126 Filed 05/15/18 Page 8 of 23 1 under the federal securities laws. 138. Plaintiff has. 8 solely in Switzerland. be dismissed from this action. [Dkt. §§ 77e. 3:17-CV-06779-RS . 15 U. and those few allegations are 11 woefully inadequate to establish personal jurisdiction or securities liability. See Complaint ¶¶ 17. Section 12(a)(1) sets forth a 28 potential cause of action against defendants who violated Section 5 by issuing unregistered 3 DEFENDANT BITCOIN SUISSE’S MOTION TO DISMISS CASE NO. cannot 9 establish liability under Sections 5 and 12(a)(1) of the Securities Act. including acting as a mandatory co-signatory on all crypto-asset transactions. a claim for alleged violation of 3 Sections 5 and 12(a)(1) of the Securities Act of 1933 (the “Securities Act”). 5 Bitcoin Suisse submits that it is not properly named as a defendant in the Tezos litigation 6 because of its lack of contacts with both California and the United States sufficient to establish 7 personal jurisdiction and because the alleged. Bitcoin Suisse “continued to provide crypto-financial services to the Tezos 21 Foundation. investors could invest in the Tezos ICO. and its alleged post-ICO conduct. Plaintiff sets forth this allegation separately from the jurisdictional 26 allegations in paragraph 25 and does not allege that Bitcoin Suisse’s post-ICO conduct in Switzerland as a co-signatory on crypto-asset transactions provides any legal basis to support a 27 claim of long-arm jurisdiction. failed to allege any basis for maintaining this action against Bitcoin Suisse in his 13 Complaint.C. we herein refer to Plaintiff’s cause of action for violation of Sections 5 and 12(a)(1) as a “Section 12(a)(1) claim.” 5 22 4 Because Section 12(a)(1) essentially sets forth a private cause of action for violations of 23 Section 5. 14 II. 4 Complaint ¶¶ 137-43.S. In any event. 4 77l . RELEVANT FACTUAL BACKGROUND 15 In Plaintiff’s 150-paragraph Complaint. Bitcoin Suisse should.S. accordingly. See Complaint ¶ 26. limited currency conversion services it provided. No.” (2) “Bitcoin Suisse provided a 19 currency conversion facility through which U. Plaintiff’s Complaint 10 contains strikingly few specific allegations against Bitcoin Suisse. and no causes of action under California state law. Plaintiff’s limited and conclusory allegations with 17 respect to Bitcoin Suisse boil down to the following: (1) “Bitcoin Suisse was involved in the 18 promotion and/or offer and sale of tokens in the Tezos ICO. 2 108]. 24-26. prior to the alleged Tezos ICO. 59.
” explicitly states. clients. this allegation suggests that U. see also Complaint ¶¶ 17. or elsewhere.C. See 15 U. Indeed. Bitcoin Suisse’s conduct after the alleged ICO. In support of this allegation. At best. in a section notably 18 omitted by Plaintiff. See Shetty v.ch/tezos-4/). 2017). 3:17-CV-06779-RS . cannot 26 possibly constitute a violation of Section 5 or Section 12(a)(1).” See Complaint 15 ¶ 25.S. 28 4 DEFENDANT BITCOIN SUISSE’S MOTION TO DISMISS CASE NO. investors did. 6 This language appeared on Bitcoin Suisse’s 22 website over a month before the alleged Tezos ICO and Bitcoin Suisse did not. the very website 17 Plaintiff cites as the source of the “Framework Agreement. and that it offered it services to U. Bitcoin Suisse is 5 conspicuously absent from any of Plaintiff’s specific allegations regarding the conception. contribute 23 any funds to the Tezos Foundation on behalf of any U. However.S. § 77l. See Decl.S. App’x 687 (9th Cir.bitcoinsuisse. therefore. in fact.S. Plaintiff does not set forth any non- 2 conclusory allegations regarding Bitcoin Suisse’s purported involvement in the promotion and offer 3 of Tezos tokens or allege that any U. 6 27 On a motion to dismiss. 9 Plaintiff’s sole alleged basis for personal jurisdiction over Bitcoin Suisse is an allegation 10 that “Bitcoin Suisse provided a currency conversion facility through which U. a court may properly consider materials that are referenced within the complaint. Lewis. that Bitcoin Suisse would not take on U. Notably.bitcoinsuisse. Case 3:17-cv-06779-RS Document 126 Filed 05/15/18 Page 9 of 23 1 Complaint ¶¶ 25-26. as clients for ICOs or wealth management. and implementation of the Tezos project.S. 59. be it natural persons or legal 21 entities.”). which. .S.”) ¶ 5.ch/tezos-4/ (“We regret to inform you all that . Plaintiff 12 cites to a “Framework Agreement. in fact. See Complaint ¶¶ 32-58. . 6 development. 704 Fed. purportedly indicated that 14 Bitcoin Suisse “accepted US dollars. investors might be able to utilize Bitcoin Suisse’s 16 currency conversion services to participate in the alleged Tezos ICO.S. Plaintiff’s sole jurisdictional allegation with respect to Bitcoin Suisse is not only 25 securities. citizens. according to Plaintiff. See http://www.S.” Complaint ¶ 25 (emphasis added).” which was and is available on Bitcoin Suisse’s website 13 (http://www. 20 Bitcoin Suisse AG (BTCSAG) can no longer accept US clients. underscoring Bitcoin 8 Suisse’s tangential role in the alleged ICO. clients in connection with the 19 alleged Tezos ICO. the drafting and release of the Tezos White 7 Paper. utilize Bitcoin Suisse’s currency 4 conversion services to contribute to the alleged Tezos ICO. and the promotion of the alleged Tezos ICO in the U. investors could 11 invest in the Tezos ICO. of Niklas Nikolajsen 24 (“Decl.
¶¶ 5. Plaintiff’s claim against Bitcoin Suisse should be dismissed for lack of 16 personal jurisdiction. 13 III. 19 A. This Court Cannot Exercise Personal Jurisdiction Over Bitcoin Suisse 20 1. Fred Martin Motor Co.3d 797. Switzerland.. Bitcoin Suisse should also be dismissed because Plaintiff fails 17 to state a claim and lacks the standing to assert a claim under Section 12(a)(1) against Bitcoin 18 Suisse. 189 (1939). 800 25 (9th Cir. Bitcoin Suisse only facilitated approximately 5% of the total contributions. Bitcoin Suisse does not hold any assets in California or elsewhere in the 7 United States. all from non- 12 U. citizens. clients. . 3 There is no other alleged basis for this Court to exercise personal jurisdiction over Bitcoin 4 Suisse. Decl. Decl. Decl. 5 Complaint ¶ 24. Decl. General Motors Acceptance Corp. when a defendant moves to dismiss a complaint for lack of 22 personal jurisdiction. the plaintiff bears the burden of demonstrating the factual foundation for 23 personal jurisdiction over the defendant. Furthermore. ARGUMENT 14 Plaintiff’s cause of action against Bitcoin Suisse is subject to dismissal on multiple grounds. In fact. 374 F. 2004). contradicted by 2 the very source of Plaintiff’s allegations. of 24 Indiana. As acknowledged by Plaintiff. 178. does not have any offices or employees in California or elsewhere in the United 8 States.S. Decl. ¶ 2. such that the maintenance of the suit does not offend ‘traditional 28 5 DEFENDANT BITCOIN SUISSE’S MOTION TO DISMISS CASE NO. Bitcoin Suisse is incorporate in Switzerland and operates under the laws 6 of Switzerland. and does not pursue or solicit business from U.¶ 3. The Supreme Court instructs that a plaintiff seeking to subject a foreign defendant 26 to a forum of the plaintiff’s choice must plead facts sufficient to establish that the defendant has 27 “certain minimum contacts . ¶ 2. Schwarzenegger v. in that limited 11 capacity. 15 As a threshold matter. Case 3:17-cv-06779-RS Document 126 Filed 05/15/18 Page 10 of 23 1 insufficient to establish personal jurisdiction over Bitcoin Suisse. clients.S. 3:17-CV-06779-RS .S. The Law of Personal Jurisdiction 21 It is well established that. to the alleged Tezos ICO. All of Bitcoin Suisse’s 9 conduct in connection with the alleged Tezos ICO occurred exclusively in Switzerland and was 10 limited to handling contributions for certain non-U. Bitcoin Suisse is headquartered in Zug. ¶ 4. 8. 298 U.S. it is inaccurate. . See McNutt v.
3d 1151. the result under either long-arm 20 statute is the same: this Court cannot exercise personal jurisdiction over Bitcoin Suisse. v. The Plaintiff. 316 (1945). however. See Complaint ¶ 25. A court may only exercise specific personal jurisdiction over a non- 23 7 A plaintiff may invoke Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 4(k)(2) as a federal long-arm 24 statute only by proving that: (1) the claim against defendant arises under federal law.” contacts between the 6 DEFENDANT BITCOIN SUISSE’S MOTION TO DISMISS CASE NO. 26 8 Plaintiff does not contend that this Court has general jurisdiction over Bitcoin Suisse.3d at 1126.S.. 6 Personal jurisdiction is typically governed by the state in which the district court sits. Litig. Cal. 3:17-CV-06779-RS . 17. While Bitcoin Suisse does not 17 concede that the federal long-arm statute is applicable here. so analysis 13 of a defendant’s contacts with a forum for purposes of personal jurisdiction are “identical” under 14 both long-arm statutes. 7 because.3d 1049.V. nor 27 could he. See 16 Pebble Beach Co. 310.’” International Shoe Co. at *6 (C. 1055 (9th Cir. (2) the defendant is not subject to the personal jurisdiction of any state court of general jurisdiction. See Kirk v. Case 3:17-cv-06779-RS Document 126 Filed 05/15/18 Page 11 of 23 1 notions of fair play and substantial justice. or that the United States is the proper 18 forum for this jurisdictional analysis. 2008)). Bitcoin Suisse does not have 19 sufficient contacts with California or the United States as whole. v. as set forth below. under the California long-arm statute. 453 F. except that. Macs. 284 F. The standard for general personal jurisdiction over a defendant is 28 quite exacting and requires “substantial” or “continuous and systematic. Shivnath Rai Harnarain Co. however appears to 8 allege that this Court has personal jurisdiction over Bitcoin Suisse based on its purported contacts 9 with the United States (as opposed to California).D. 1126 (9th Cir.3d at 800. see Glencore Grain Rotterdam 11 B.. and 25 (3) the federal court’s exercise of personal jurisdiction comports with due process. 5 Feb.3d 1114. 2016 WL 5340527. in this 7 case California. A court need not accept 3 as true allegations that are merely conclusory or contradicted by evidence properly subject to 4 judicial notice. 2002). 21 The Plaintiff alleges only that this Court has specific personal jurisdiction over Bitcoin 22 Suisse. 2006).. under the federal long-arm statute. Case No. apparently invoking Federal Rule of Civil 10 Procedure 4(k)(2) as a federal long-arm statute. Glencore. CV15-07931 JAK. Office of 2 Unemployment Compensation and Placement. Complaint ¶ 25. 284 F. 326 U. See Schwarzenegger. the relevant forum is the United States. 374 F. 8 See Complaint ¶ 25. State of Wash. Caddy. 1159 (9th Cir. here. the relevant forum is 15 California and. 2016) (citing In re Gilead Sciences Sec. v. are coextensive. 536 F. The due process 12 requirements of the California and federal long-arm statutes.
796 F. 462. alone. See Burger 4 King Corp.” and thus. or business in the United States. and thus. The Plaintiff bears the burden of satisfying the first two 12 requirements of this test. 374 19 F. accordingly. sufficient a court to decline exercising personal 18 jurisdiction over a defendant.3d at 1158-60. with no property. would not be proper.3d at 1155. Langsten Slip & Batbyggeri A/S. Decl. thereby 8 invoking the benefits and protections of its laws.3d at 802. 1995). which is sufficient to warrant dismissal of Bitcoin Suisse from this action. “If any of the[se] three 13 requirements is not satisfied. See Brand v. 26 Here. 28 7 DEFENDANT BITCOIN SUISSE’S MOTION TO DISMISS CASE NO. This Court. the plaintiff’s cause of action arises out of such contacts. cannot 23 exercise personal jurisdiction over Bitcoin Suisse and should dismiss Bitcoin Suisse from this 24 action.2d 1070.3d 15 267. ¶¶ 2-3. employees. See Schwarzenegger. Pebble Beach. Plaintiff fails to satisfy this first prong of the test for specific 20 personal jurisdiction. 374 F. 807. 374 F. v. 471 U.3d at 802. v. In 21 fact. 52 F.S. See. Case 3:17-cv-06779-RS Document 126 Filed 05/15/18 Page 12 of 23 1 resident or foreign defendant if the plaintiff can demonstrate that the defendant purposefully 2 established contacts with the forum state. Menlove Dodge. As set forth below.3d at 802. 25 defendant and the forum state. 453 F. Schwarzenegger. 11 Schwarzenegger. Nor are there any: Bitcoin Suisse is a Swiss entity. Omeluk v. jurisdiction in the forum would deprive the defendant of due process 14 of the law. 1986). a plaintiff’s failure to satisfy the first prong of the Ninth Circuit’s three-part 17 test for specific personal jurisdiction is. 3:17-CV-06779-RS . (2) the claim arises out of or relates to the 9 defendant’s forum-related activities. 10 comports with fair play and substantial justice. 1073 (9th Cir. Caddy.g. 270 (9th Cir. e. 472 (1985). 16 Accordingly. The Ninth Circuit’s three-part test for specific 5 jurisdiction requires that: (1) the non-resident defendant purposefully directed his activities or 6 consummated some transaction with the forum or resident thereof or perform some act by which he 7 purposefully avails himself of the privilege of conducting activities within the forum. Plaintiff does not allege any such “substantial” or “systemic” contacts between Bitcoin Suisse 27 and the United States or California.. as set forth below. Plaintiff cannot satisfy any of the three requirements for this Court to 22 exercise specific personal jurisdiction over Bitcoin Suisse. See Pebble Beach Co. 453 F. and (3) the exercise of jurisdiction is reasonable. 3 and the court’s exercise of jurisdiction comports with fair play and substantial justice. Rudzewicz.
¶¶ 2. establish 7 either. 453 6 F. 374 14 F. Switzerland. Decl. Bitcoin Suisse should be dismissed from this action for lack of personal jurisdiction.S. Bitcoin Suisse has not purposefully availed itself of 19 conducting business within California or the United States and Plaintiff has failed to set forth any 20 allegations or evidence to the contrary.”).3d 1155-56 (rejecting plaintiff’s 21 assertion that defendant availed himself of the forum where plaintiff failed to identify any conduct 22 by defendant that took place in California or the United States). and cannot. 17 conducted in Switzerland. Case 3:17-cv-06779-RS Document 126 Filed 05/15/18 Page 13 of 23 2. 23 b. 465 U. Plaintiff must establish either that Bitcoin Suisse (1) purposefully availed 4 itself of the privileges of conducting activities in California or the United States as a whole. Evidence of purposeful availment is 12 typically an action by the defendant taking place in the forum that invokes the benefits and 13 protections of the laws in the forum. Here. 783 (1984). Bitcoin Suisse is headquartered in 16 Switzerland and all services conducted in connection with the alleged Tezos ICO were. in fact. See Pebble Beach. 453 F.3d at 802. Plaintiff has failed to establish any action by Bitcoin Suisse that adequately supports 11 purposeful availment of California or the United States. 8. Schwarzenegger. 3:17-CV-06779-RS . The Court Cannot Exercise Specific Jurisdiction Over Bitcoin Suisse 1 Because Plaintiff Cannot Demonstrate Purposeful Contacts With California or the United States by Bitcoin Suisse 2 In order to satisfy the first requirement of the Ninth Circuit’s three-part test for specific 3 personal jurisdiction.3d at 1155. 8 9 a.3d 797. 374 F. See generally Complaint. . Plaintiff has failed to identify any conduct by Bitcoin Suisse that took place in 15 California or the United States. . The “Calder test” 28 8 DEFENDANT BITCOIN SUISSE’S MOTION TO DISMISS CASE NO. Schwarzenegger. is 18 headquartered in Zug. 453 F. Jones. Because plaintiff has not. Plaintiff Has Failed to Establish Purposeful Direction by Bitcoin 24 Suisse 25 Plaintiff has also failed to demonstrate that Bitcoin Suisse purposefully directed its conduct 26 towards California or the United States. or (2) 5 that it purposefully directed its activities toward one of these two forums. see also Complaint ¶ 24 (“Defendant Bitcoin Suisse . Purposeful direction is evaluated under a three-part test set 27 forth in the Supreme Court’s decision in Calder v. Plaintiff Has Failed to Establish Purposeful Availment by Bitcoin Suisse 10 First. See Pebble Beach. See Pebble Beach.3d at 1155.
3d at 1156. 453 F. See 17 http://www. See Pebble 4 Beach. (2) 2 which was expressly aimed at the relevant forum. Bitcoin 12 Suisse provided a currency conversion facility through which U. 22 First.S. Case 3:17-cv-06779-RS Document 126 Filed 05/15/18 Page 14 of 23 1 is satisfied only if a plaintiff can demonstrate that a defendant (1) committed an intention act. The Ninth Circuit has warned that the 5 Calder test is not an “effects” test. clients in connection with the alleged Tezos ICO.3d at 28 9 DEFENDANT BITCOIN SUISSE’S MOTION TO DISMISS CASE NO. v. Plaintiff’s tepid allegation. 223 F. see also 8 Pebble Beach. 453 F. Plaintiff has not alleged. this fact is insufficient to demonstrate that Bitcoin Suisse 27 “expressly aimed” its services at the United States (or California). and (3) caused harm. Augusta Nat’l Inc. Inc. in fact.” Complaint ¶ 25 (emphasis added). 3:17-CV-06779-RS .” as alleged by the Plaintiff 26 (Complaint ¶ 25 (emphasis added)). “provided a currency conversion 25 facility through which U.S.. as set forth 15 above.S. clients. Plaintiff fails to satisfy at least two of the three elements of the 9 Calder test. 1087 (9th Cir.3d at 1156. such as “individualized targeting” within the forum. this allegation is contradicted by the very website cited by Plaintiff. that Bitcoin Suisse’s services in 23 Switzerland as a crypto-financial intermediary for the alleged Tezos ICO were “expressly aimed” at 24 California or U. 453 F. meaning that the test’s third prong requires “something more” 6 than a mere foreseeable effect in the forum. investors could invest in the 13 Tezos ICO. 374 F. Bitcoin Suisse AG 18 (BTCSAG) can no longer accept US clients.3d 1082. let alone demonstrated. 14 investors actually did invest in the alleged Tezos ICO through Bitcoin Suisse and. investors could invest in the Tezos ICO.bitcoinsuisse.3d at 803. 7 Bancroft & Masters. as clients for 19 ICOs or wealth management. which explicitly states 16 that Bitcoin Suisse would not take on U. contradicted by the very website 20 Plaintiff cites in his Complaint. Schwarzenegger. . See Pebble Beach. 10 Plaintiff’s assertion that this Court can exercise specific personal jurisdiction over Bitcoin 11 Suisse appears to rest solely on the allegation that “in connection with the Tezos ICO. Plaintiff notably does not allege that any U.”).S. does not provide any basis for this Court’s exercise of specific 21 personal jurisdiction over Bitcoin Suisse.ch/tezos-4/ (“We regret to inform you all that . the brunt of which is 3 suffered and which the defendant knows is likely to be suffered in the forum state. 2000). .S. Even if Bitcoin Suisse had. be it natural persons or legal entities.
Because Bitcoin Suisse expressly 18 did not provide services to U. without “something more. Inc. cannot satisfy the third requirement of the Calder test. clients in connection with the alleged Tezos ICO. But. the defendant had no reason to 23 believe that any Californians would even see the advertisement or that the plaintiff. thus. v. 2d 871.D. in actuality and as evidenced by Bitcoin Suisse’s website. 419 4 (9th Cir. Cybersell. customers).3d at 807 (finding that. Supp. v. and relatedly.3d at 807 (finding that defendant’s 13 advertisement was not expressly aimed at the forum state of California where the advertisement 14 was instead expressly aimed at Ohio). rather than the forum state of California. 2012) (holding that an “interactive. because the defendant expressly aimed its 22 advertisement at Ohio. standing alone. that 17 Bitcoin Suisse foreseeably caused harm in the relevant forum. even if Bitcoin Suisse had.” and had no reason to believe that it was likely to cause harm. 880-81 (N. And again. DFSB Kollective Co.. See 12 http://www.S. clients. 374 F. Inc. who lived in 24 California.” this fact is insufficient to satisfy the third prong 26 of the Calder test. 16 Plaintiff also. Bourne.bitcoinsuisse.com” domain name and a majority of defendant’s prior 3 business was primarily with U. 453 F. Cybersell.ch/tezos-4/. Bitcoin Suisse 19 could not have “caused harm.S. 897 F. Plaintiff. See 21 Schwarzenegger. Ltd. 8 Cal. has failed to satisfy the first essential 15 element of Calder test for purposeful direction. 130 F.S.S. in fact. 3:17-CV-06779-RS . would be harmed there). Case 3:17-cv-06779-RS Document 126 Filed 05/15/18 Page 15 of 23 1 1159 (finding that defendant’s website was not expressly aimed at the United States simply by 2 virtue of the fact that it the website used a “. 1997) (finding that the fact that “anyone. in 20 California or the United States by its conduct in connection with the alleged Tezos ICO.3d at 1157-58 (holding that plaintiff failed to satisfy 27 Calder’s “effects test” where defendant’s website had foreseeable effects in the forum state of 28 10 DEFENDANT BITCOIN SUISSE’S MOTION TO DISMISS CASE NO. anywhere could access” defendant’s website 5 was. 374 F.3d 414. insufficient to demonstrate that defendant deliberately directed its business 6 toward the forum state of Arizona absent a showing that defendant actively encouraged people in 7 Arizona to access the site). clients. 11 Bitcoin Suisse’s services were expressly not aimed at U. See Pebble Beach. Schwarzenegger. provided 25 services to U. commercial website” was insufficient to confer specific 9 personal jurisdiction over a defendant in the absence of allegations that the defendant specifically 10 targeted the relevant forum).
and post-ICO were forum- 28 11 DEFENDANT BITCOIN SUISSE’S MOTION TO DISMISS CASE NO. but for the defendant’s forum-related activities. Here. thus. 112 F. 8 453 F. allege facts that would demonstrate that his claim against 21 Bitcoin Suisse arise from Bitcoin Suisse’s conduct within California or the United States. Am. sufficient for this Court to decline exercising personal jurisdiction over 16 Bitcoin Suisse. Plaintiff has. Plaintiff Has Failed to Allege That His Claim Against Bitcoin 19 Suisse Arises From Bitcoin Suisse’s Forum-Related Activities 20 First.3d at 271-72. 52 F. the 25 plaintiff’s injuries would not have occurred. 13 3.3d at 1155-60 (holding that defendant was not subject to specific personal jurisdiction 9 because defendant did not purposefully avail himself or purposefully direct his conduct at the 10 United States or California).3d at 270-71 (holding that the defendant was not subject 11 to specific personal jurisdiction where the first element of the Ninth Circuit’s three-part test for 12 specific jurisdiction was not satisfied). Case 3:17-cv-06779-RS Document 126 Filed 05/15/18 Page 16 of 23 1 California. Omeluk. See Doe v. See Pebble Beach. alone. for instance. 1051- 26 52 (9th Cir. and cannot. The 22 Ninth Circuit has adopted a “but for” analysis for determining whether a plaintiff’s claim “arises 23 out” of a defendant’s forum related activities. individually targeting 2 California residents). Nat’l Red Cross. 52 F. Omeluk.3d 1048. Plaintiff cannot satisfy the Ninth Circuit’s 7 three-part test for exercising specific personal jurisdiction over Bitcoin Suisse. Even so. even if Bitcoin Suisse’s services pre. Plaintiff also cannot satisfy the two remaining requirements of the Ninth 17 Circuit’s test for specific personal jurisdiction. Plaintiff Also Fails to Satisfy the Two Remaining Requirements for Specific Personal Jurisdiction 14 Plaintiff’s failure to satisfy the first prong of the Ninth Circuit’s three-part test for personal 15 jurisdiction is. not only are there no forum-related activities 27 attributable to Bitcoin Suisse. but defendant did not do “something more” by. 5 Because Plaintiff has demonstrated neither purposeful availment nor purposeful direction by 6 Bitcoin Suisse with respect to the two relevant forums. 18 a. meaning that a court may not exercise specific 24 personal jurisdiction over a defendant unless. failed to establish that Bitcoin Suisse purposefully 3 directed its conduct in connection with the alleged Tezos ICO at California or the United States at 4 large. 3:17-CV-06779-RS . 1997). Plaintiff has not.
which is headquartered in 24 Switzerland. 9 b. contributors to the alleged 26 Tezos ICO somehow violated U. such conduct cannot be the “but for” causation of Plaintiff’s alleged 2 injury because Bitcoin Suisse did not provide intermediary services to Plaintiff (or contribute any 3 funds on behalf of U. Here. it would not be reasonable to require Bitcoin Suisse to defend itself in this 11 jurisdiction. after all. The Plaintiff. because it has not alleged any forum-related conduct by Bitcoin Suisse that 8 could form a basis for his claim and purported injury. 3:17-CV-06779-RS . securities laws. citizens) in connection with the alleged Tezos ICO.S. it would be an obvious burden for Bitcoin Suisse. 17 Bancroft & Masters.S.3d at 1088. clients. 19 First.S. The “unique burdens” placed on a foreign 27 defendant defending itself locally “should have significant weight” in assessing the reasonableness 28 12 DEFENDANT BITCOIN SUISSE’S MOTION TO DISMISS CASE NO. Courts balance the following facts to determine whether it would be reasonable to 12 subject a foreign defendant to the jurisdiction of our courts: 13 (1) the extent of the defendants’ purposeful interjections into the forum state. 23 Second. and (7) the existence of an alternative forum. all the applicable factors dictate against asserting 18 jurisdiction over Bitcoin Suisse.ch/tezos-4/.S. accordingly. (5) the most efficient judicial resolution of the controversy. ¶¶ 5-6. citizens entered into a Framework 5 Agreement with Bitcoin Suisse or otherwise utilized Bitcoin Suisse’s services in connection with 6 the alleged Tezos ICO.bitcoinsuisse. (6) the importance 16 of the forum to the plaintiff’s interest in convenient and effective relief. 223 F. See http://www. there is no allegation that Bitcoin Suisse purposefully injected itself into California or 20 the United States. The Exercise of Personal Jurisdiction Over Bitcoin Suisse Is Not Reasonable 10 Second.S. has not alleged that he or any other U. (4) the forum state’s interest in adjudicating the dispute. 4 Plaintiff. (2) the 14 burden on the defendant in defending in the forum. to travel thousands of miles to defend itself against Plaintiff’s claim that Bitcoin 25 Suisse’s role in Switzerland as a financial intermediary for non-U. (3) the extent of the conflict with the 15 sovereignty of the defendants’ state. In fact. See Decl. fails to satisfy the second requirement of the test 7 for specific jurisdiction. Case 3:17-cv-06779-RS Document 126 Filed 05/15/18 Page 17 of 23 1 related activities (they are not). the opposite is true: Bitcoin Suisse expressly insulated itself from the 21 United States with respect to the alleged Tezos ICO by explicitly stating on its website that it would 22 not take on U.
There are no American or Californian interests implicated 22 by Bitcoin Suisse’s conduct in Switzerland in connection with the alleged Tezos ICO. because “[g]reat care and reserve 4 should be exercised when extending our notions of personal jurisdiction into the international 5 field. Here. v.3d 1482. 1489 17 (9th Cir. 24 no conduct by Bitcoin Suisse that the United States or California needs to protect the Plaintiff. C 05-5125 SBA. Thus.D. there is.S. quite simply. v. Nobel Industries AB. 115 (1987). there are quite simply no overriding policy 8 considerations compelling a U. but in no 27 way favor the exercise of jurisdiction here.”). Asahi Metal Industry Co. a Swiss entity.. 3:17-CV-06779-RS . Cal. The Ninth Circuit has repeatedly stated that this sovereignty factor weighs 15 heavily against the exercise of personal jurisdiction where the defendant is a resident of a foreign 16 nation rather than another state. when Bitcoin Suisse is compliant with Swiss law 13 and a decision on the merits by this Court may be inconsistent with Bitcoin Suisse’s obligations 14 under Swiss law. Sipa 7 Press. 102.S. No. let alone any credible. 2006). 11 Third. such as Bitcoin Suisse. Worldwide Internet Solutions. the Ninth Circuit imposes a “higher jurisdictional barrier” in 6 assessing the reasonableness of exercising jurisdiction over a foreign defendant. court to assert jurisdiction over Bitcoin Suisse that outweigh the 9 unique and significant burden that would be imposed on Bitcoin Suisse if it were to remain in the 10 action.. 11 F..S. at 115. 480 U. 1993). from. See Rano v. Superior Court 2 of Cal. This Court’s exercise of jurisdiction over Bitcoin Suisse risks 19 encroaching on the purview of Swiss law and regulation of Swiss entities. there is no compelling. See Core-Vent Corp. Case 3:17-cv-06779-RS Document 126 Filed 05/15/18 Page 18 of 23 1 of a local court’s exercise of personal jurisdiction. 480 U. or 25 others similarly situated. Bitcoin Suisse maintains that it is not properly named 28 13 DEFENDANT BITCOIN SUISSE’S MOTION TO DISMISS CASE NO. 1993) (“Sovereignty concerns weigh more heavily when the defendants have no United 18 States-based relationships. at *7 (N. reason why this court should exercise 12 jurisdiction over Bitcoin Suisse.2d 580. 987 F. In fact. clients. Phillips v. Inc.S. neither California nor the United States have any material interest in adjudicating 21 Plaintiff’s claim against Bitcoin Suisse. 3 2006 WL 1709189. 20 Fourth. because 23 Bitcoin Suisse’s services were expressly limited to non-U. 588 (9th Cir. Ltd.” Asahi. 26 The remaining factors are not particularly applicable to the present circumstances. June 20.
24 2.S. 19 To assert a claim under Section 12(a)(1) of the Securities Act. P. citizens in connection 2 with the alleged Tezos ICO. 14 12(b)(6). § 77l. has no bearing on the efficient and effective 4 resolution of Plaintiff’s claims against any other defendant. 643 (1988). but a court need not “accept as true allegations that contradict matters properly 16 subject to judicial notice or by exhibit” or “allegations that are merely conclusory. R. 2008).S.C. CIV. 536 F. Here. 21 see Pinter v. Plaintiff’s 12 complaint is subject to dismissal for failure to state a claim for violation of Section 12(a)(1) of the 13 Securities Act. all factual allegations set forth in the complaint 15 are taken as true. as it should in light of the foregoing. § 77e to the plaintiff. Case 3:17-cv-06779-RS Document 126 Filed 05/15/18 Page 19 of 23 1 as a defendant in this action because it did not provide its services to U. 9 B. Bitcoin Suisse is not a Statutory Seller Under Section 12(a)(1) 25 26 9 Bitcoin Suisse hereby joins in and adopts the points and authorities regarding the 27 inapplicability of the U. accordingly.S.. may not 7 properly exercise personal jurisdiction over Bitcoin Suisse and should dismiss Bitcoin Suisse from 8 this action for lack of personal jurisdiction. or unreasonable inferences.S. Litig. Plaintiff Has Failed to State a Cause of Action Under Section 12(a)(1) of the Securities Act Against Bitcoin Suisse 10 1.” In re Gilead Scis. the Securities Act even applies to this action. In evaluating a complaint’s sufficiency. Sec. a plaintiff must allege that 20 defendant offered or sold a security in violation of 15 U. 15 U. has not and cannot satisfy any of the Ninth Circuit’s three requirements 6 for exercising specific personal jurisdiction over Bitcoin Suisse. Standard for Failure to State a Claim 11 In addition to this Court’s lack of personal jurisdiction over Bitcoin Suisse. This Court. Securities Act extraterritorially in Defendant Tezos Stiftung’s Motion to Dismiss the Consolidated Complaint [Dkt.S.. assuming. Plaintiff has failed to sufficiently allege: (2) 22 that Bitcoin Suisse offered or sold a security in connection with the Tezos ICO. unwarranted 17 deductions of fact. Dahl. in short. this Court declining to exercise personal jurisdiction over 3 Bitcoin Suisse. 486 U. Therefore. 5 Plaintiff. 28 14 DEFENDANT BITCOIN SUISSE’S MOTION TO DISMISS CASE NO.C. 119] (Part III). 3:17-CV-06779-RS . 9 FED.3d 1049. No. 622. argundo. 1055 18 (9th Cir. and (2) that 23 Plaintiff purchased a security from Bitcoin Suisse in connection with the Tezos ICO.
3:17-CV-06779-RS . 27 Accordingly.S.. Moore. Supp.D. 537 (9th Cir. 486 U. Securities Litig. No..” See id. No. Countrywide Fin. State Ret. at 651 n. Inc. Case No. Pinter. Cal. 28 15 DEFENDANT BITCOIN SUISSE’S MOTION TO DISMISS CASE NO. 11 Only a defendant who directly participated in the solicitation or sale of securities is subject 12 to Section 12 liability. at *9 (C. 10 Le Kun Wu v. restricted 4 to sellers of securities and those who solicit the securities purchase. 2009) (dismissing 9 Section 12(a)(1) claim against defendant for plaintiff’s failure to sufficiently allege defendant was a 10 “seller” under Section 12(a)(1)). 885 F. at 650. A “collateral participant” to the offer or 19 sale of securities or one who “merely assist[ed] in another’s solicitation efforts” is not subject to 20 Section 12 liability..3d 1006. 2011 WL 4389689. 2005) (holding that 13 the district court must determine whether defendants were “directly involved” in the actual 14 solicitation of a securities purchase in order to determine whether plaintiff’s Section 12 claims 15 survive a motion to dismiss). 885 F. In re Worlds of Wonder Sec. 721 F. Litig.2d at 536. Pinter. Swabplus.D. 8 Inc. Sys. the scope of persons that can be held liable for a Section 12(a)(1) claim and a Section 12(a)(2) claim are also “identical. 1989) (dismissing Section 12(a)(2) claim against individual where plaintiff 22 failed to allege that the individual “was more than a collateral participant to” the securities sales).. 1148 (N. it may not be held liable under 24 Section 12 as an aider and abettor of a securities violation. at *4 (C. See XOMA Corp. thus. If 23 a defendant does not satisfy the standard of a statutory seller. May 5.D. Corp. 3.S. 21 1140. Inc. Section 12(a)(1)’s liability is. See In re Daou Sys. the Ninth Circuit held that the statutory language of “offers and sells” in 26 Sections 12(a)(1) and 12(a)(2) have “identical” meanings in both sections. Case 3:17-cv-06779-RS Document 126 Filed 05/15/18 Page 20 of 23 1 A defendant may only be held liable for the sale of unregistered securities under Section 2 12(a)(1) of the Securities Act if defendant was the “offeror” or “seller” of securities within the 3 meaning of Section 12(a)(1). 411 F.27. 5 Kayport Package Express. v. 2009 WL 10673199. Cal. Me. CV 08-07821-RGK. at 640. Id.. 486 U. Cal. Apr. 2011) (dismissing Section 12 claim with respect 17 to defendants for whom plaintiff failed to make specific allegations of solicitation and merely 18 alleged such defendants “promoted” the sale of securities). 1989) (dismissing Section 12(a)(2) 6 claim against legal and accounting professionals where plaintiff failed to allege that these 7 professionals played any role in the solicitation of securities purchases)..2d 531. see also Moore v. 2:10-CV-0302 16 MRP. 25 10 In Moore. 1029 (9th Cir.
3:17-CV-06779-RS . Nat’l Union Fire Ins. Case 3:17-cv-06779-RS Document 126 Filed 05/15/18 Page 21 of 23 1 C-91-2252 TEH. of 3 Pittsburgh. that Bitcoin Suisse was a “collateral participant. Nor are Plaintiff’s allegations that 22 Bitcoin Suisse was “involved in the . providing investors with 11 virtual currency conversion services. See id.2d at 537 (dismissing Section 12(a)(2) claim 27 against defendants who merely “performed professional services in their respective capacities as 28 16 DEFENDANT BITCOIN SUISSE’S MOTION TO DISMISS CASE NO. 1989 WL 53004. 486 U.] .Y. (holding that plaintiffs’ allegation that defendants “‘promoted’ the sale 21 of securities is not sufficient to sustain a Section 12 claim). Sys. 9100 (LLS).. v. . 1990 WL 357807. See Pinter.” Complaint ¶ 25 (emphasis added). Woodhead. at most. at *5 (S. .27 (rejecting argument 25 that a person who participates in the soliciting of a purchase of securities may be liable as a 26 statutory seller under Section 12(a)(1)). See Me. Plaintiff also 16 does not make any specific allegations regarding Bitcoin Suisse’s alleged role in offering tokens for 17 sale.D. See Daou Sys. .S. Plaintiff does not allege that 13 Bitcoin Suisse was directly involved in the offer or sale of tokens in connection with the alleged 14 Tezos ICO. 4 1989) (dismissing Section 12(a)(1) claim against issuer of financial guarantee bonds because there 5 was no evidence that the defendant was a statutory seller and defendant could not be held liable to 6 aiding and abetting co-defendants alleged violation of Section 12(a)(1)). 411 F. which 23 allege. Dec. 2011 WL 4389689.. State Ret. 7 Here. at 651 n. Co. Pa. Plaintiff’s 19 allegation that Bitcoin Suisse was “involved in the promotion” of tokens is not sufficient for 20 Section 12 liability.” “merely assist[ing] in another’s 24 solicitation efforts” to offer or sell securities. and then contributing these virtual currencies to the Tezos 12 ICO on behalf of the investors. at *10 (holding that plaintiffs “must include very 18 specific allegations of solicitation” to sustain a Section 12 claim against defendants). offer and sale of tokens” as a financial intermediary.N. Moore.3d at 1029 (defendants must be “directly involved” in the actual 15 solicitation of a securities purchase in order to be subject to Section 12 liability). 1991) (dismissing claims for aiding 2 and abetting Section 11 an 12 violations for failure to state a claim). No. May 15. 86 Civ. . Plaintiff alleges only that 9 Bitcoin Suisse was “involved in the promotion and/or or offer and sale of tokens in the Tezos ICO” 10 by acting “as a crypto-financial service provider and intermediary[. 885 F. 27. Plaintiff fails to allege that Bitcoin Suisse offered or sold securities within the 8 meaning of Section 12(a)(1) in connection with the alleged Tezos ICO.D. at *11 (N. Cal.
at 1148 (dismissing Section 12 claim against a “collateral participant” to a 4 securities sale). Merrill Lynch. he did not. 1974) (holding that Section 12(a)(1) claims may only be maintained 18 by an “aggrieved purchaser” of the defendant). at 13 643.. In Pinter.R. at 644.. 64 F. 3:17-CV-06779-RS .” Id. 432. 8 3. Accordingly.D. see Decl.D. the Supreme Court concluded that this language “clearly confines § 12 liability to 14 those situations in which a sale has taken place. 486 U. See Pinter. Supp. because Plaintiff’s 6 allegations fall far short of alleging that Bitcoin Suisse actually sold or solicited the sale of any 7 tokens in connection with the alleged Tezos ICO. Accordingly. See Leonard. at 21 434 (dismissing Section 12(a)(1) claim against defendants with whom plaintiffs did not have “any 22 dealings whatsoever” with respect to the allegedly unregistered securities). Plaintiff’s Section 12(a)(1) claim against Bitcoin Suisse must be 5 dismissed for failure to state a claim upon which relief may be granted. Here.¶ 6). 433-34 (S. See id.N. Plaintiff’s Section 12(a)(1) claim against Bitcoin Suisse is also subject to dismissal 11 because Plaintiff lacks standing to assert such a claim. Pierce. a plaintiff may not 15 maintain a Section 12(a)(1) claim against a defendant from whom the plaintiff did not actually 16 purchase securities. In re Worlds of Wonder Sec. Plaintiff Lacks Standing to Assert Section 12(a)(1) Claim Against Bitcoin Suisse 9 10 Finally. and 20 so his Section 12(a)(1) claim against Bitcoin Suisse must be dismissed.R. Inc. Plaintiff has not alleged that he purchased 19 tokens in the alleged Tezos ICO through Bitcoin Suisse (and indeed.. Fenner & Smith. 3 Litig.S. Section 12(a)(1) provides that only a 12 defendant “from” whom the plaintiff “purchased” securities may be liable. 721 F. Case 3:17-cv-06779-RS Document 126 Filed 05/15/18 Page 22 of 23 1 accountants and lawyers” in connection with a securities issuance because such professionals did 2 not offer or sell securities within the meaning of Section 12(a)(2)). 64 17 F. 23 /// 24 /// 25 /// 26 /// 27 /// 28 17 DEFENDANT BITCOIN SUISSE’S MOTION TO DISMISS CASE NO. see also Leonard v.Y.D.
3:17-CV-06779-RS . Case 3:17-cv-06779-RS Document 126 Filed 05/15/18 Page 23 of 23 1 IV.com 18 jmeyers@brownrudnick. Presiado Leo J.com 19 20 Attorneys for Defendant Bitcoin Suisse AG 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 18 DEFENDANT BITCOIN SUISSE’S MOTION TO DISMISS CASE NO. 7th Floor 10 Irvine. CONCLUSION 2 For the foregoing reasons. 2018 6 BROWN RUDNICK LLP 7 8 By: /s/ Leo J. NY 10036 17 Tel: (212) 209-4800 Email: swissner-gross@brownrudnick. CA 92612 Telephone: (949) 752-7100 11 Facsimile: (949) 252-1514 12 Email: lpresiado@brownrudnick. Meyers (admitted pro hac vice) 15 BROWN RUDNICK LLP 16 Seven Times Square New York. 4 5 DATED: May 15.com 13 -and- 14 Sigmund S. Bitcoin Suisse respectfully requests that its Motion to Dismiss be 3 granted. Presiado (SBN 166721) 9 BROWN RUDNICK LLP 2211 Michelson Drive. Wissner-Gross (admitted pro hac vice) Jessica N.

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