Blockchain Papers

Anthony Chidi Nzomiwu, Ekene Ezinwa Nwankwo, Scholastica Uzondu, Franca Okoye

No abstract is available for this record.

Yunjie Xu, Songsong Li, Jiaming Hao, Weiqian Zhang

No abstract is available for this record.

weston lucas

No abstract is available for this record.

Naji Mansour Nomran, Zakir Hossen Shaikh, Mohammad Irfan, Koteswara Rao Vemavarapu · 5 authors

No abstract is available for this record.

Shahzad Ahmad, Zeeshan Iqbal, Imad Yousif Ahmad

This study analyses the growing importance of cryptocurrencies in Baluchistan, Pakistan, using the Rabby Wallet and Dex Screener to identify suspicious transactions linked to the Baluchistan Youth Council (BYC) in 2023.Baluchistan, one of Pakistan's least digitally connected areas, has adopted Decentralized Finance (DeFi) techniques, likely due to financial exclusion, surveillance avoidance, and informal remittance networks.The mixed-methods study analyses secondary data, tracks blockchain transactions, and reviews policy.Digital finance has structural constraints due to broadband penetration differences (15% in Baluchistan vs. 58.4% overall).Local traders, activists, and remittance beneficiaries may selectively adopt Rabby Wallet, according to wallet-level examinations.Event-window examination of Dex Screener data shows anomalous trading volumes, especially in low-liquidity tokens, amid BYC rallies and political mobilizations.These inconsistencies undermine cryptocurrency's significance in socio-political movements and its absorption into Baluchistan's shadow financial environment.The paper interprets these data using financial repression, technological adoption, and conflict economics.It contends that crypto adoption in Baluchistan is low but strategic in political finance and informal cross-border trade.The paper suggests improving financial inclusion, regulating decentralized platforms, and training investigators.This study illuminates how digital finance affects political movements in fragile regions and the risks and potential of bitcoin adoption in Baluchistan.

Dr Alex Tamunomiegbam, Washima Mede, Engr Timi Akinsonji, Engr Terkuma Ivande · 6 authors

Africa’s energy industry stands at a pivotal moment, possessing plentiful renewable resources yet lacking adequate financing solutions to realize their potential. More than 600 million Africans still lack electricity access and conventional financing approaches, like government subsidies, donor funding, and bank loans, frequently fall short or are unreachable because of high risks, low investor trust, and poor regulatory conditions. Thus, innovative funding models are crucial to close the gap between energy requirements and accessible capital. This study examines crowdfunding and blended finance as effective approaches for channeling investment into renewable energy initiatives throughout Africa. Crowdfunding uses online platforms to gather minor contributions from numerous individual backers, fostering chances for decentralized, community-oriented energy solutions. Blended finance, on the other hand, strategically integrated public philanthropic, and private funding, leveraging public assets to mitigate risks and stimulate significant private sector investment. This study illustrates how analyzing case studies, such as M-KOPA Solar in Kenya and the FET FiT program in Uganda, can help overcome traditional financing obstacles, reduce risks, and activate significant investment flows for small-scale off-grid systems and large renewable projects. The research seeks to evaluate the relative efficacy of crowdfunding and blended finance in enhancing renewable energy implementation, to pinpoint their obstacles and constraints, and to suggest practical recommendations for governments, development finance organizations, and private investors. In conclusion, the results indicate that creative funding can speed up Africa’s energy transition, improve energy accessibility, and play a crucial role in reaching Sustainable Development Goal 7: affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for everyone by 2030.

Nora Amelda Rizal

No abstract is available for this record.

U Parthiban, Vandhana Devi Pannerselvam, Ashok Murugesan, Kumar Ramasamy

Women still face persistent financial inclusion, employment verification, and wage transparency issues to their economic empowerment.Conventional hiring and financial systems impose disproportionate limitations on women to access credit and fair wages.ShePowerChain is a blockchain platform that aims to address these problems with decentralized finance, smart contracts, and verifiable credentials.ShePowerChain's secure, transparent, and automated transactions not only streamline processes but, depending on modeled scenarios, help reduce wage payment delays by 25% and increase women-led microloan access by 40%.By enabling secure, transparent, and automated transactions, ShePowerChain disintermediates, enhances job verification, and enforces wage fairness.The platform uses zero-knowledge proofs for privacy, multi-factor authentication for security, and Layer 2 scaling solutions for efficiency.While the results were from simulations and comparisons, they were not due to full real world usage.Comparative studies point to its potential to improve financial access, close wage gaps, and establish trust in hiring processes.The design also considers a serious ethical risk of excluding women who have low digital literacy, suggesting digital skills training, and adaptive strategies for community.Despite obstacles related to regulatory implications, and lack of digital literacy, blockchain provides an opportunity to facilitate and scale sustainable solutions to gender inclusive economic empowerment.

Dilek Sağlık Özçam, Ahmet Özçam

No abstract is available for this record.

Emomotimi Agama

No abstract is available for this record.

Raed Awashreh

This article discusses the incorporation of smart contracts, blockchain technology, and the adoption of the circular economy model in the Gulf Cooperation Council region with a focus on how these innovations can improve the overall sustainability of organizations.Adopting qualitative methodology, using secondary data, and building reliable themes for analysis, it seeks to address how blockchain's decentralized and transparent nature enhances sustainable development by ensuring commodities are traceable, waste is minimized, and processes are streamlined in various sectors including energy, manufacturing and food security.As self-executing agreements, smart contracts also aid the automation of systems and processes, increase the effectiveness of procedures and eliminate the need for oversight.Countries in the Gulf Cooperation Council that are using innovations such as Ever ledger, Power ledger and IBM Food Trust Blockchain are already contributing to sustainability by cutting on management waste, curtailing fraud and encouraging responsible sourcing of materials.The research also identifies barriers to the implementation of blockchain technology in the circular economy in the region such as lack of clear regulatory framework, low level of technological adoption and lack of willingness to change.Nonetheless, the study highlights the possibilities that exist with blockchain to solve issues that hinder the shift towards a circular economy which is consistent with international standards on sustainability including responsible consumption.

Olusegun Aborode

No abstract is available for this record.

Olumide Kumuyi, Esther Uzoka, Bisola Akeju, David Excel Ozowara

The Framework for Privacy-Focused Digital Identity Verification Supporting Financial Inclusion in Africa proposes an integrated, secure, and ethically aligned model for digital identification systems that enhance access to financial services while safeguarding individual privacy. The framework addresses the dual challenge of expanding digital financial inclusion across Africa’s underserved populations and maintaining trust through data protection and regulatory compliance. It emphasizes privacy-preserving technologies such as federated identity management, zero-knowledge proofs, and biometric encryption to authenticate users without disclosing sensitive personal information. By enabling decentralized and consent-based data sharing, the model ensures individuals retain ownership of their digital identities while allowing financial institutions to verify eligibility and compliance with Know Your Customer (KYC) and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) regulations. The framework also integrates blockchain-based audit trails for transparent verification processes and tamper-proof recordkeeping, enhancing institutional accountability. It adopts interoperable standards to link national ID systems, mobile network operators, and fintech platforms, enabling seamless cross-border transactions and inclusive participation in the digital economy. A multilayer governance structure encompassing regulators, financial service providers, and civil society stakeholders promotes ethical oversight and equitable access. Furthermore, the framework supports context-sensitive deployment, accommodating infrastructural disparities and socio-cultural factors unique to African regions. It aligns with global data protection norms such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the African Union Convention on Cyber Security and Personal Data Protection (Malabo Convention), while encouraging local innovation in identity ecosystems. Ultimately, this privacy-centered digital identity verification framework establishes a resilient foundation for secure inclusion, reducing barriers for the unbanked, mitigating identity fraud, and fostering digital trust. By combining privacy engineering, inclusive design, and interoperable governance, it contributes to the broader agenda of sustainable digital transformation and equitable financial empowerment across Africa.

Suleiman Umar Suleiman, Kamal Tasiu Abdullahi

This study analyses the effect of cryptocurrency on the Nigerian economy. The development of crypto-currency as a means of exchange without legal backing and invisibility of the identity of operators has posed peculiar challenges, such as illicit financial flow and terrorism, amongst others, to the country. This study, therefore, sought to examine the effect of crypto-currency on the Nigerian economy. The study hinged on social exchange theory. Secondary data were obtained from the CBN statistical bulletin and Global Financial Integrity Report for a period of six years from 2015 to 2020. The data were analyzed using a simple regression model. The result shows that R is 7.9%, which means that there is a low positive relationship between crypto-currency and the level of economic development in Nigeria. It further shows an adjusted R square of -38.4 which depicts that crypto-currency has a low inverse effect on the level of economic development in Nigeria. In conclusion, the computed p-value of 0.945, which is higher than the set p-value of 0.05, shows that crypto-currency does not have a significant effect on the level of economic development in Nigeria. Hence, it is recommended that, in order to sustain economic development from the activities of crypto-currency in Nigeria, the CBN needs to ensure that laws and mechanisms are put in place to capture the activities of crypto-currency in the country adequately.

Costa, Carlos J.

This paper investigates the evolving landscape of decentralized finance (DeFi) by examining its foundational concepts, research trends, and ecosystem. A bibliometric analysis was conducted to identify thematic clusters and track the evolution of DeFi research. Additionally, a thematic review was performed to analyze the roles and interactions of key participants within the DeFi ecosystem, focusing on its opportunities and inherent risks. The bibliometric analysis identified a progression in research priorities, transitioning from an initial focus on technological innovation to addressing sustainability, environmental impacts, and regulatory challenges. Key thematic clusters include decentralization, smart contracts, tokenization, and sustainability concerns. The analysis of participants highlighted the roles of developers, liquidity providers, auditors, and regulators while identifying critical risks such as smart contract vulnerabilities, liquidity constraints, and regulatory uncertainties. The study underlines the transformative potential of DeFi to enhance financial inclusion and transparency while emphasizing the need for robust security frameworks and regulatory oversight to ensure long-term stability. This paper comprehensively explains the DeFi ecosystem by integrating bibliometric and thematic analyses. It offers valuable insights for researchers, practitioners, and policymakers, contributing to the ongoing discourse on the sustainable development and integration of DeFi into the global financial system.

Oleh Lutsyshyn, Nataliya Kravchuk

Purpose. The aim of the article is to explore modern trends in the development of the fintech industry in the context of the transformation of the global business landscape and to identify key challenges and opportunities for the further advancement of financial technologies. Methodology of research. General scientific and specialized methods were used in the process of the study, namely: a systematic approach to analyse the interconnections between financial technologies and the transformation of the global business landscape; comparative analysis methods to assess fintech development trends in different countries; economic and statistical methods to study the dynamics of the financial technology market; and forecasting methods to determine the prospects for the development of the financial sector in the era of digitalization and globalization. Findings. Theoretical foundations have been examined, and key trends in the development of financial technologies in the context of the transformation of the global business landscape have been systematized. The impact of central bank digital currencies (CBDC), decentralized finance (DeFi), SuperApps, and the "Buy Now, Pay Later" (BNPL) model on the structure of the financial market has been analysed. The main regulatory challenges, cybersecurity threats and the specifics of adapting financial institutions' business models to rapid technological changes have been identified. Originality. The substantiation of the interrelationship between globalization, the digitalization of the financial sector, and the evolution of financial technologies has been further developed, taking into account the challenges of cybersecurity, regulatory compliance, and business model adaptation. Particular attention has been paid to the integration of fintech solutions into the international economic system and their potential impact on traditional banking institutions. Practical value. The conclusions and recommendations derived from the study can be used by financial institutions, fintech companies, and regulatory bodies to develop strategies for adapting to emerging technological changes, improving regulatory policies, and enhancing the resilience of the financial system in the context of global digital transformation. Key words: financial technologies, fintech industry, global business landscape, global development trends, FinTech, CBDC, DeFi, BNPL, SuperApps, globalization, digitalization of the financial sector, regulatory challenges, cybersecurity.

Yusuf Durachman

Decentralized Finance (DeFi) is revolutionizing the way individuals and institutions engage with financial services by removing intermediaries and offering decentralized alternatives to traditional banking and finance systems. This paper explores the rapidgrowth and impact of DeFi on global financial systems, focusing on key protocols such as Uniswap, Aave, and Compound. Using both qualitative and quantitative methodologies, including case studies and comparative analyses, the research examines the evolution of DeFi in terms of Total Value Locked (TVL), transaction costs, security challenges, and user adoption. The findings reveal that DeFi platforms have experienced exponential growth in liquidity, with TVL across major protocols increasing from $50 million in January 2020 to over $100 billion by January 2024. Uniswap alone saw its TVL grow from $50 million to $15 billion during the same period. DeFi significantly reduces transaction costs, with cross-border fees averaging $7 on Uniswap, compared to $35 in traditional banks. However, Ethereum gas fees remain volatile, exceeding $50 during peak congestion periods. Despite these cost benefits, the study also identifies security as a major concern, with 22 significant security incidents reported in DeFi between2020 and 2023, resulting in substantial financial losses. Additionally, the lack of clear regulatory frameworks continues to pose challenges to broader adoption. This research concludes that while DeFi has the potential to disrupt traditional financial systems, its long-term success depends on addressing these technical and regulatory challenges. The adoption of Layer-2 scaling solutions, along with improvements in security and regulatory clarity, will be essential for ensuring the continued growth and stability of the DeFi ecosystem.

Liming Zhang, Yuting Zhao, Liang Liu, Helin Sun · 5 authors

No abstract is available for this record.

Abraham Itzhak Weinberg, Pythagoras Petratos, Alessio Faccia

Abstract This paper explores the coexistence possibilities of Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs) and blockchain-based cryptocurrencies within a post-quantum computing landscape. It examines the implications of emerging quantum algorithms and cryptographic techniques such as Multi-Party Computation (MPC) and Oblivious Transfer (OT). While exploring how CBDCs and cryptocurrencies might integrate defenses like post-quantum cryptography, it highlights the substantial hurdles in transitioning legacy systems and fostering widespread adoption of new standards. The paper includes comprehensive evaluations of CBDCs in a quantum context. It also features comparisons to alternative cryptocurrency models. Additionally, the paper provides insightful analyses of pertinent quantum methodologies. Examinations of interfaces between these methods and blockchain architectures are also included. The paper carries out considered appraisals of quantum threats and their relevance for cryptocurrency schemes. Furthermore, it features discussions of the influence of anticipated advances in quantum computing on algorithms and their applications. The paper renders the judicious conclusion that long-term coexistence is viable provided challenges are constructively addressed through ongoing collaborative efforts to validate solutions and guide evolving policies.

Arun Singla

This paper explores the Indian government’s stance and evolving regulatory landscape regarding various financial instruments, such as centralized finance (CeFi), decentralized finance (DeFi), cryptocurrencies, share market, mutual funds, gold, and fixed deposits. It examines the current frameworks and regulations, and how government policies are shaping each financial avenue. By analyzing the different approaches toward traditional and modern financial systems, this paper highlights the challenges and opportunities faced by the Indian financial ecosystem, particularly in the context of cryptocurrencies and DeFi.

Murali Krishna Pasupuleti

Abstract: Abstract: This chapter explores the transformative potential of digital currencies in driving financial inclusion and fostering equitable growth across the global economy. It examines how digital currencies, including cryptocurrencies and central bank digital currencies (CBDCs), are lowering barriers to financial access for unbanked and underserved populations by offering decentralized, secure, and cost-effective solutions. Through case studies from regions like Africa, Latin America, and Southeast Asia, the chapter highlights how these technologies empower marginalized communities, improve access to financial services, and promote economic development. It also discusses the challenges, such as regulatory hurdles, technological infrastructure, and trust issues, that must be addressed to scale digital currencies globally. Finally, the chapter emphasizes the role of innovation, public-private partnerships, and investment in achieving a more inclusive financial system that drives sustainable and equitable economic growth. Keywords: digital currencies, financial inclusion, equitable growth, cryptocurrencies, central bank digital currencies, CBDCs, unbanked, underserved populations, decentralized finance, blockchain, economic empowerment, financial access, regulatory challenges, public-private partnerships, innovation, global economy.

Richard Umeokwobi, Edmund Tamuke, Obumneke Ezie, Marvelous Aigbedion · 5 authors

The rapid adoption and growing prominence of Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies have sparked significant interest and debate among economists, policymakers, and financial analysts. In Sub-Saharan Africa, where traditional financial systems often face challenges such as limited access to banking services, high transaction costs, and volatile currencies, Bitcoin presents both opportunities and risks. Understanding the interplay between Bitcoin and key monetary indicators such as monetary aggregates, exchange rates, and interest rates can provide valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders in these economies. This study therefore seeks to investigate the nexus between monetary indicators and Bitcoin in selected Sub-Saharan African countries using a Panel ARDL (Autoregressive Distributed Lag) approach. The analysis focuses on understanding the dynamic relationship between key monetary variables, such as monetary aggregates, exchange rates, interest rates, and Bitcoin prices, from 2010 quarter three to 2022 quarter four. The findings reveal several significant relationships between monetary indicators and Bitcoin across the selected Sub-Saharan African countries. In the short run of the Panel Ardl monetary aggregates exhibit a positive relationship with Bitcoin prices, indicating that changes in the money supply may influence the demand for cryptocurrencies. Conversely, both exchange rates and interest rates show a negative relationship with Bitcoin prices in the short run, suggesting that currency depreciation and higher borrowing costs may reduce demand for Bitcoin. In the long run, the relationship between monetary aggregates and Bitcoin remains positive, emphasizing the potential influence of money supply on cryptocurrency markets over time. However, the significance of exchange rates diminishes, indicating a less pronounced impact in the longer term. Interestingly, interest rates continue to exhibit a significant negative relationship with Bitcoin prices in the long run, highlighting the persistent effect of borrowing costs on cryptocurrency demand. These results have important implications for policymakers, investors, and researchers interested in the intersection of monetary policy and cryptocurrency markets in Sub-Saharan Africa. Policymakers may consider the impact of monetary policy decisions on cryptocurrency adoption and market dynamics, while investors can use these insights to inform their investment strategies.

Nurul Widyawati Islami Rahayu, Hepni Hepni, Fauzan Fauzan, Djoko Poernomo · 7 authors

The rise of cryptocurrency has sparked a global financial revolution, captivating the interest of various demographics, including the digitally savvy Generation Z. This study explores the Islamic perspective on cryptocurrency investment, focusing particularly on the intersection of Generations Z Fear of Missing Out (FoMO) and their personal traits of traders. Within Islamic finance, which emphasizes ethical investing and prohibits speculative activities akin to gambling, cryptocurrency presents a unique challenge. The rapid appreciation of digital currencies and the pervasive influence of social media amplify FoMO among young investors, driving them to partake in high-risk ventures. This behavioral inclination often conflicts with Islamic principles, which advocate for risk-sharing and tangible asset-backed transactions. The study delves into how Generations Z psychological predispositions, such as overconfidence, risk tolerance, and the allure of quick gains, align or clash with Islamic ethical standards. It examines the potential for educational interventions to reconcile these differences by promoting financial literacy that aligns with Sharia law. Additionally, the study addresses the broader implications of these trends on the development of Islamic financial products tailored to digital assets, aiming to bridge the gap between religious adherence and modern investment opportunities. This research highlights the necessity for a nuanced understanding of Generations Z investment motivations and the importance of integrating Islamic ethical considerations into the evolving landscape of cryptocurrency. The method used in this study is a mixed method, namely a combination of quantitative and qualitative methods. The quantitative method is used to analyze multi-time series forecasting on Generations Z fear of missing out (FoMO) and their personal traits as traders. While the qualitative method is used to analyze the results of an in-depth interview and find the potential conflicts with Islamic principles advocating for minimum transaction risk and for the use tangible asset-backed transactions. The results suggest that generation Z becomes more immersed in digital and social media landscapes, their susceptibility to FoMO intensifies, driving more frequent and sometimes impulsive trading behaviours. Concurrently, as these young investors gain more experience and exposure to the cryptocurrency market, their personal traits such as risk tolerance, adaptability, and tech-savviness also evolve, potentially leading to more sophisticated trading strategies. However, these practices conflict with Islamic point of view.

Kevinia Mayumi Amran, Fajri Adrianto, Masyhuri Hamidi

Social media and the digital era have had a big impact on investing decisions, particularly in the cryptocurrency space. This study investigates how social media, financial literacy, and digital literacy affect DKI Jakarta Millennials and Generation Z's decision-making when making investments. The study looks at the mental processes that underlie investing decisions and is based on theories of reasoned action and planned behavior. The study emphasizes how important financial literacy is for reducing risks and helping people make wise decisions. Digital literacy, on the other hand, improves one's capacity to navigate and evaluate large volumes of financial data. Social media is recognized as a key influencer that shapes public opinion and propels financial trends. The study's quantitative approach makes use of structural equation modelling (SEM) to examine data from an DKI Jakarta survey given to Millennials and Generation Z. The findings show that by improving access to and analysis of financial information, digital literacy has a positive impact on investment decisions. The study finds that making wise investment decisions in the cryptocurrency market requires a thorough understanding of social media, digital literacy, and financial literacy. Keywords: Digital Literacy, Financial Literacy, Social Media, Investment Decisions and Cryptocurrency.