Month/Year of Graduation

5-2020

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

Department

Finance, Banking, and Real Estate

First Advisor

Clinton Rushing

Abstract

With cryptocurrencies moving out of obscurity and into the public eye, the initial purpose of this research paper is to provide the history of cryptocurrencies, to explain the complex workings in and around cryptocurrencies, investigate their investment potential, and to draw attention to their potential for misuse. To follow, the primary purpose is to create a platform on which to compare cryptocurrencies with more common mediums of exchange, analyze their current international regulatory climate, highlight their trends within influential nations, discuss their pending and future regulation, and provide personal proposals for additional regulation. Due to the complex nature of the subject, the data and information compiled contain reputable secondary research, data collected from popular cryptocurrency websites, as well as mainstream news reports of current happenings in the field. As of the writing of this paper, the direct regulation of cryptocurrencies is minimal in most nations; however, it is likely that the introduction of more oversight will occur in the near future. That being said, with the public opinion and government approval of cryptocurrencies as volatile as their values, there is much to be seen as to the degree in which cryptocurrencies will be integrated into both personal and commercial sectors over time and to what extent the regulatory oversight of them will be implemented throughout the world.

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