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The potential impacts and risks of global stablecoins

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  • Cangshu Li
  • Yan Shen

Abstract

This paper aims to study the implications of the potential large-scale usage of global stablecoins. We start with describing the origin and the evolution of stablecoins, and then analyze the operational mechanism and application scenarios. An analysis on whether global stablecoins will lead to dollarization of a country’s monetary system is then followed, based on the monetary quantity theory and Fisher’s equation. We find that large-scale usage of global stablecoins may have an impact on both large and small open economies, and with a greater impact on the sovereign monetary system of small economies. Further, global stablecoins may affect financial stability through influencing monetary policy, holder confidence and financial system. The potential risks are embodied in technology development, payment security and illegal transactions. To deal with these potential impacts and risks, we propose to strengthen judicial research and plan arrangements for global cooperation and coordination.

Suggested Citation

  • Cangshu Li & Yan Shen, 2021. "The potential impacts and risks of global stablecoins," China Economic Journal, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 14(1), pages 39-51, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:taf:rcejxx:v:14:y:2021:i:1:p:39-51
    DOI: 10.1080/17538963.2021.1872167
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Sean Foley & Jonathan R Karlsen & Tālis J Putniņš, 2019. "Sex, Drugs, and Bitcoin: How Much Illegal Activity Is Financed through Cryptocurrencies?," The Review of Financial Studies, Society for Financial Studies, vol. 32(5), pages 1798-1853.
    2. Adachi, Mitsutoshi & Cominetta, Matteo & Kaufmann, Christoph & van der Kraaij, Anton, 2020. "A regulatory and financial stability perspective on global stablecoins," Macroprudential Bulletin, European Central Bank, vol. 10.
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    Cited by:

    1. Gregory, Gadzinski & Alessio, Castello & Vito, Liuzzi & Patrice, Sargenti, 2024. "Break a peg! A study of stablecoin co-instability," International Review of Financial Analysis, Elsevier, vol. 96(PA).

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