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This module provides an in-depth exploration of Decentralised Finance (De-Fi) and blockchain technology, focusing on their revolutionary impacts on finance and payment systems, with Bitcoin (BTC) as a core case study. Students will gain comprehensive insights into the workings of De-Fi applications such as Decentralised Exchanges, Lending & Borrowing, and Transactions on the Ethereum (ETH) blockchain, enabling a clear understanding of complex interactions within the De-Fi ecosystem. The course will delve into consensus algorithms, specifically Proof of Work and Proof of Stake, and illustrate the principles of secure digital currency wallet management. The Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM), ERC20, and ERC721 standards will be examined to shed light on smart contract deployment and the creation and management of digital assets and Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs). Practical experiences, such as minting tokens on testnets, will be integrated to reinforce understanding of tokenomics. Additionally, discussions on the token economy system and Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) will further illustrate the convergence of decentralized and centralized financial realms. Overall, this module aims to blend theoretical knowledge with practical cases to provide students with a holistic and nuanced understanding of the multifaceted applications of blockchain technology in decentralized finance.

Learning Outcomes:Ìý

• Acquire Profound Understanding: Gain in-depth knowledge of decentralized payment systems and blockchain technology, understanding its transformative impact on value transfer and financial systems.
• Detailed Comprehension of Cryptocurrencies: Understand the core components, protocols, creation, transactions, and secure storage solutions of cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum.
• Insights into Decentralised Finance Applications: Gain practical and theoretical insights into the workings and impacts of De-Fi and smart contracts on financial markets and the future monetary system.
• Hands-on Experience & Practical Insights: Develop practical skills and insights through hands-on experiences such as token minting on testnets and developing decentralized apps and smart contracts in financial services.
• Critical Analysis & Evaluation: Critically assess and evaluate the suitability, effectiveness, applications, and implications of blockchain technology as a disruptive innovation in various enterprise models.
• Explore Frontier Developments: Formulate responses to existing blockchain theories, analyze security-related issues, and understand frontier developments and challenges in blockchain technology.
• Understanding of Regulatory Systems: Acquire comprehensive knowledge of cryptocurrency regulations and address regulatory challenges related to blockchain technology and its applications.