Course summary: 

This module focuses on technological innovations transforming the financial sector. Students will examine the underlying principles and architecture of blockchain technology, including public, private, and consortium blockchains, alongside the cryptographic techniques that underpin these systems. Building on this foundation, the module investigates the development of Decentralised Finance (DeFi), comparing decentralised and traditional financial systems. Key topics include DeFi protocols, decentralised exchanges, and decentralised lending and borrowing platforms. Students will also analyse cryptocurrencies as an asset class, exploring trading strategies, portfolio management approaches, and the risk-return characteristics of digital assets. Further topics include Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs), stablecoins, and Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs). Practical laboratory sessions complement the theoretical content, providing students with hands-on experience in analysing cryptocurrency data and exploring DeFi ecosystems.

Topics: 

1. Foundations of Blockchain Technology

2. Blockchain Economics and Decentralised Finance (DeFi)

3. Cryptocurrencies as an Asset Class

4. Stablecoins and Central Bank Digital Currencies

5. Latest Developments and Innovations