Decentralized Currencies and Digital Economy: Stability and Implications of Digital Currency
摘要
Cryptocurrencies such as the famous Bitcoin or Ethereum are innovative assets that have entered the global financial system. They are based on decentralized technologies, with the most prominent being blockchain which allows for secure, transparent, and direct transactions that do not involve third parties such as banks. They are fast and cheaper means of transferring money across borders, act as a form of currency and extend financial services to individuals who cannot access the formal banking system. But it also brought challenges; the legal challenges are immense, which is why governments and financial authorities are trying to come up with rules and regulations that would cover such aspects as taxation, regulation, and protection of consumers against fraud. Like any other emerging technology, Ethereum has faced controversies in terms of governance since Apps can run on the Ethereum blockchain, but the question of who is to blame when criminal activities with cryptocurrencies arise. Thus, the legal status of these currencies and their further spread and application are the major concerns for the legal systems of the countries. So, the focus of this chapter is to cover the legal issues of digital currency stability and the implications of digital currency.