IC316-Fintech and Cryptocurrencies

Module Provider: ICMA Centre
Number of credits: 20 [10 ECTS credits]
Level:6
Terms in which taught: Spring term module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2021/2

Module Convenor: Dr Andrew Urquhart
Email: a.j.urquhart@icmacentre.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

This module seeks to introduce students to Fintech as well as cryptocurrencies and blockchain. The module offers students the opportunity to gain an understanding of how and why firms are implementing blockchain technology in their day-to-day business as well as the challenges they face.Ìý The module also covers cryptocurrencies, their governance and properties behind the most popular cryptocurrencies.

Aims:

This module aims to provide students with an understanding of the major areas of FinTech, the ability to understand blockchain technology and why so many firms are implementing the technology, as well to reflect on the history, behaviour and impact cryptocurrencies have had on the financial sector. Students will gain a broad appreciation of recent develops in FinTech, including money and payment, digital finance, alternative finance and importantly FinTech regulation.

Assessable learning outcomes:

By the end of the module it is expected that the student will be able to:Ìý

• discuss how and why blockchain is being utilised by many firms, as well as be able to explain how blockchain works in certain businesses


• discuss the main regulation within the FinTech sphere as well as evaluate the ethical issues facedÌý


• be able to explain how digital finance works, with relevant examples as well as understanding how alternative finance, including crowdfunding and P2P lending, are impacting markets


• define what cryptocurrencies are and the impact they have had, and may potentially have in the future, on financial market

Additional outcomes:

The module also aims to encourage the development of oral communication skills and the student’s effectiveness in group situations via assessed participation in class discussion.Ìý

Outline content:

1. Introduction to FinTech


2. Fintech


3. Crowdfunding


4. What is money and is Bitcoin money?


5. Basics of Blockchain


6. Basics of Bitcoin


7. Bitcoin in Practice


8. Altcoins and the Cryptocurrency Ecosystem


9. ICOs


10. Future Trends in Fintech

Global context:

The module does not specifically focus on global issues. However, international aspects of the FinTech will be covered.Ìý

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

Each session will be led by ICMA Centre faculty and will be a combination of lecture-based delivery followed by classroom debate. Reading materials for potential topics for debate will be provided in advance.

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Summative assessment- Examinations:

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

A group oral presentation (20 minutes maximum) which takes place during the first two weeks of March.

Written assignment which is due straight after the Easter break.

Formative assessment methods:

Penalties for late submission:

The University policy statement on penalties for late submission will be applied; these can be found at: http://www.reading.ac.uk/web/FILES/qualitysupport/penaltiesforlatesubmission.pdf You are strongly advised to ensure that coursework is submitted by the relevant deadline. You should note that it is advisable to submit work in an unfinished state rather than to fail to submit any work.

Assessment requirements for a pass:

40%Ìý

Reassessment arrangements:

Re-examinationÌý takes place in August/September and takes the form of an individual essay.

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):

Last updated: 8 April 2021