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Understanding Cryptocurrencies

Author

Listed:
  • Wolfgang Karl Härdle
  • Campbell R Harvey
  • Raphael C G Reule

Abstract

Cryptocurrency refers to a type of digital asset that uses distributed ledger, or blockchain, technology to enable a secure transaction. Although the technology is widely misunderstood, many central banks are considering launching their own national cryptocurrency. In contrast to most data in financial economics, detailed data on the history of every transaction in the cryptocurrency complex are freely available. Furthermore, empirically oriented research is only now beginning, presenting an extraordinary research opportunity for academia. We provide some insights into the mechanics of cryptocurrencies, describing summary statistics and focusing on potential future research avenues in financial economics.

Suggested Citation

  • Wolfgang Karl Härdle & Campbell R Harvey & Raphael C G Reule, 2020. "Understanding Cryptocurrencies," Journal of Financial Econometrics, Oxford University Press, vol. 18(2), pages 181-208.
  • Handle: RePEc:oup:jfinec:v:18:y:2020:i:2:p:181-208.
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    File URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1093/jjfinec/nbz033
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    JEL classification:

    • C01 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - General - - - Econometrics
    • C58 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Econometric Modeling - - - Financial Econometrics
    • E42 - Macroeconomics and Monetary Economics - - Money and Interest Rates - - - Monetary Sytsems; Standards; Regimes; Government and the Monetary System
    • E51 - Macroeconomics and Monetary Economics - - Monetary Policy, Central Banking, and the Supply of Money and Credit - - - Money Supply; Credit; Money Multipliers
    • G10 - Financial Economics - - General Financial Markets - - - General (includes Measurement and Data)
    • K24 - Law and Economics - - Regulation and Business Law - - - Cyber Law
    • K42 - Law and Economics - - Legal Procedure, the Legal System, and Illegal Behavior - - - Illegal Behavior and the Enforcement of Law
    • L86 - Industrial Organization - - Industry Studies: Services - - - Information and Internet Services; Computer Software
    • O31 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Innovation; Research and Development; Technological Change; Intellectual Property Rights - - - Innovation and Invention: Processes and Incentives

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