Financial Technology

Catalog description

Financial Technology ("FinTech") describes digital products and services that compete with traditional financial services business models. FinTech enables companies to take advantage of a "clean slate" approach to solving centuries-old financial problems such as payment, credit, and investments. These opportunities transcend national borders, languages, and cultures. Like the “eCommerce” boom of the late 1990s, FinTech will eventually become “the way business is done,” and business students need a clear understanding of it. This course has four key areas of focus. First is the History of Electronic Payment Systems. From credit cards to eCash and PayPal, how have electronic payment systems evolved and what are their key features and limitations? Second are Blockchain Fundamentals. What is a blockchain and how is one constructed? What are desirable features of ablockchain? What are some uses for blockchains? Third are Cryptocurrencies. What payment systems have been developed on blockchains? What are their desirable properties? Why are there so many? Last are FinTech Business Strategies. What business strategies are enabled and/or disrupted by FinTech? How else might we apply blockchain and other technologies to transform businesses?