KRISTIN TEAGER advises a broad range of entities across the U.S. payments ecosystem—including banks, fintech platforms, cryptocurrency companies, payment processors, money transmitters, and retailers—on the regulatory, transactional, and strategic matters that shape the design and delivery of financial services.
Kristin counsels clients on the development and distribution of innovative payments, blockchain, and other fintech products, offering thoughtful, practical guidance for navigating the complexities of an evolving regulatory environment. Her work spans both traditional payments systems and the latest in cryptocurrency, including stablecoins, custodial platforms, tokenized payment systems, and other blockchain-based innovations. She advises on structuring products and operations to advance business goals while managing legal and compliance risks, and she frequently assists with evaluating licensing requirements and engaging with federal and state regulators throughout the product lifecycle.
She regularly advises on compliance with key financial regulatory frameworks, including the Electronic Fund Transfer Act (EFTA), UDAAP standards, federal anti-money laundering laws, and state money transmission statutes, as well as federal and state regimes governing digital assets and virtual currencies. Kristin combines deep subject-matter knowledge with a business-minded approach to help clients bring new financial products to market efficiently and responsibly.
Kristin also has significant experience negotiating and drafting complex commercial agreements supporting financial services offerings and strategic partnerships. Kristin has helped negotiate credit card program agreements governing billions of dollars of receivables across co-brand and private label programs in sectors ranging from retail and e-commerce to digital platforms. Her work in this space enables clients to structure highly strategic, scalable relationships while navigating evolving consumer finance regulations.
Kristin serves as primary outside counsel to both established high-growth companies and innovative start-ups. She is known for her responsiveness, sound judgment, and practical insight, and plays a central role in Sidley’s work at the intersection of financial regulation, innovation, and technology.