Towards a system of global cryptocurrency regulation – pitfalls and potential

The market value of global Cryptocurrency in issue has now passed $700bn, with many forecasts suggesting that a total of at least $10tn is likely within 15 years (see e.g. https://www.cnbc.com/2018/01/03/one-stock-analysts-10-trillion-bull-case-for-cryptocurrencies.html).

Whilst the structural complexity involved with the market has contributed to the question of regulatory regime being left on the backburner, the sheer size of the finances involved has led to questioning of whether the suggested growth potential can be attainted in its absence. In addition, attention has been drawn to the lack of any state-backed currency with associated monetary policy tools that might be employed in a crisis. Free-market supporters of the development of this type of finance point to the associated blockchain process as an inherent safety mechanism that should provide investors with confidence in terms of transparency and security going forward. In the context of these competing systems and viewpoints, the study will focus on opinions of a wide range of stakeholders across international borders, including: regulators, legal authorities, exchange traders, academics, investors and representatives of societal groups including trade unions and environmental groups. These interactions will aim to establish the extent to which cryptocurrency risks are a concern and, if so, where the potential and priorities for regulatory action lie.

For informal enquiries about the project, contact Professor Bruce Burton ([Email Address Removed])
For general enquiries about the University of Dundee, contact [Email Address Removed]


QUALIFICATIONS
Applicants must have obtained, or expect to obtain, a first or 2.1 UK honours degree, or equivalent for degrees obtained outside the UK in a relevant discipline.

English language requirement: IELTS (Academic) score must be at least 6.5 (with not less than 5.5 in each of the four components). Other, equivalent qualifications will be accepted. Full details of the University’s English language requirements are available online: www.dundee.ac.uk/guides/english-language-requirements.


APPLICATION PROCESS

Step 1: Email Professor Bruce Burton ([Email Address Removed]) to (1) send a copy of your CV and (2) discuss your potential application and any practicalities (e.g. suitable start date).

Step 2: After discussion with Professor Burton, formal applications can be made via UCAS Postgraduate. When applying, please follow the instructions below:

Apply for the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree in Accountancy and Business Finance: https://digital.ucas.com/coursedisplay/courses/7f3296e3-f34c-bfe0-ef6a-71e945c332e8. Select the start date and study mode (full-time/part-time) agreed with the lead supervisor.

In the ‘provider questions’ section of the application form:
- Write the project title and ‘FindAPhD.com’ in the ‘if your application is in response to an advertisement’ box;
- Write the lead supervisor’s name and give brief details of your previous contact with them in the ‘previous contact with the University of Dundee’ box.

In the ‘personal statement’ section of the application form, outline your suitability for the project selected.