Distributed registries in internet commerce as key technologies of industry 4.0 and the subject of the legal regulation

Introduction. The scientific paper traces the modern development of Internet space, which is characterized by the fact that in most spheres of public relations this space becomes indispensable. The technology of data processing and storage based on decentralized distributed registries (blockchain) is highly effective in commercial application. Unfortunately, in the Russian Federation, the technology of decentralized distributed registries is not given enough attention. The purpose of the study is to search for legal solutions for sustainable business development, ensuring its competitiveness, where there is a need for the mandatory use of digital technologies in the activities of legal entities. The authors set a goal to consider the problems of the legal framework governing this technology, as well as the relations that arise from remote purchase and sale transactions carried out by legal entities and individuals on the Internet. Methods. The methodological framework for the study is a set of methods of scientific cognition, among which the main ones are the methods of historicism, systematicity, analysis, and comparative law. Results. Based on the accumulated law enforcement experience and civil doctrine, the authors have proposed recommendations for resolving the most common conflict of laws issues arising from the use of blockchain technology and their regulation at the national and international level. The standards of electronic payments in online commerce at the international level are considered. Conclusions. As a result of the study, the role of digitally fixing the main stages of transactions with many commodities traditionally sold on exchanges, on the blockchain platform is revealed, which ultimately contributes to increasing transparency and security of operations. In this regard, blockchain solutions are of undoubted interest to participants in transactions with classic exchange-traded goods. The authors conclude that blockchain technologies reduce transaction execution costs and risks, contribute to the emergence of new business models and increase the efficiency of transactions.