Blockchain and Cryptofinance
Aims
Blockchains and cryptocurrencies represent a novel application of cryptography and information technology to age-old problems such as financial record-keeping, the medium of exchange and decentralised authorities. Their potential contribution in the areas of banking and corporate governance have the potential to trigger profound changes. Many major players in the financial industry, including regulators and central banks, have started to invest in this new technology. This course aims to provide a profound knowledge of cryptocurrencies and blockchain topics related to banking and finance. On the technical side, this course will enable students to understand the essential technical concepts related to blockchain and cryptocurrencies. On the financial side, it aims to equip the student with the capability to identify the underlying business and financial implications of various blockchain projects, and to understand the potential impact on current framework of financial services, corporate governance structure and regulation.
Learning Outcomes
The students will be able to:
- Understand the mechanism of cryptocurrency and Initial Coin Offerings (ICOs).
- Apply the principles of banking and finance to evaluate the business logics of blockchain projects.
- Analyse the financial and regulatory consequences of crypto-issuers’ strategic behaviour.
- Understand the origin, current status and possible orientations of digital cash and identify potential business opportunities.
- Develop relevant strategies to use blockchain to solve issues in corporate governance.
Content
- Cryptocurrencies and their role in changing the financial sector.
- The concept of an open distributed ledger and its advantages over a centralised database.
- Mechanics and mining of cryptocurrencies.
- State-of-art tools to develop fintech strategies involving blockchains and cryptocurrencies.
- Examination of real-world case studies.