Financial Markets and Institutions

Financial Markets and Institutions Term 5 Format: 1925 word or 2200-word critical review (plus 10%) About a decade ago the global community became aware of Bitcoin (i.e. cryptocurrency) enabling the transaction of digital currency as a medium of exchange without the need for central banks. Throughout its history, Bitcoin has attracted attention from central bankers, investors, politicians, economists, media and public across a range of topics (e.g. financial stability, monetary policy, payments, market infrastructures and risks). Interestingly, despite the development of cryptocurrencies to help address some of the concerns associated with Bitcoin, cryptocurrencies are not yet operating as money in the Australian economy. The article below published by the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) sheds some light on this discussion. Dark, C, Emery D, Ma, J & Noone, C 2019, ‘Cryptocurrency: ten years on’, Bulletin, Reserve Bank of Australia, June, pp. 195-214. Based on the background above, and theories presented in the subject, write a report addressing the following questions: a. Identify and briefly discuss the market risks attached to cryptocurrencies and their effect on the value of financial securities. b. From a Central Banker’s perspective, briefly outline the concerns posed by cryptocurrencies to the financial system in your selected country. See PDF attached: Dark, C, Emery D, Ma, J & Noone, C 2019, ‘Cryptocurrency: ten years on’, Bulletin, Reserve Bank of Australia, June, pp. 195-214. Assessment requirements The required word length for this assessment is 2,200 words (i.e. plus 10% maximum, without any penalty). • In terms of structure, presentation and style you are normally required to use: o AIB standard report format o AIB preferred Microsoft Word settings o author-date style referencing (which includes in-text citations plus a reference list). • These requirements are detailed in the AIB Style Guide.