Blockchain Technology and Cryptocurrencies
Completion requirements
Cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology are some of the means of how technology is entering the financial world. As technology advances, so does the financial products and the provision of these products and services. After watching this video and going through the attached slides, you will learn more about how technology is shaping the world of finance. Is the emergence of multiple non-central bank-backed cryptocurrencies threatening traditional central bank-backed currencies?
Shaping the Financial World
Overview
- The Internet and the Payment Riddle
- Money
- Satoshi Nakamoto's Innovation
- Crypto Markets
- Blockchain Technology Use Cases
- Challenges & Assessing Viability of Use Cases
- Central Bank Digital Currencies
- Ground Truths
Readings
- 'Even if a Thousand Projects Don't Make It, Blockchain Is Still a Change Catalyst' Gensler, CoinDesk
- 'Economics of Money & Blockchain Technology and Evaluating Projects' MIT Cryptocurrency Online Course
- 'Responses from Big Finance' MIT Cryptocurrency Online Course
- 'The technology of retail central bank digital currency' Bank of International Settlement
Study Questions
- How does Bitcoin fit within the history of money, the emergence of the Internet and failed attempts of cryptographic payment systems?
- What are the strategic and tactical considerations in assessing the viability and value proposition of a blockchain technology project? How can you separate rigorous analysis from mere assertion and hype in the blockchain ecosystem?
- What strategic considerations should go into Central Banks thinking of expanding access to digital reserves through central bank digital currency (CBDC)?