Research Issues Regarding The Bitcoin And Alternative Coins Digital Currencies

Abstract

In this paper, we research and analyse the main characteristics, the evolution of the Bitcoin and of the Alternative Coins (Alt-Coins) digital currencies, their numerous applications and ramifications. We make an in depth analysis of the Bitcoin digital currency and of the most significant Alternative Coins, taking into account their technical characteristics, their main advantages and limitations. Just as it happened in the past decades with the personal computers and Internet, the impact of these digital currencies will gradually increase in the future, leading to major changes in our lifestyle, redefining our everyday life, economy and society.