Blockchain and Money: Fundamentals of Finance and Technology

The intersection of finance and technology is undergoing a massive shift driven by decentralized ledgers. Understanding how blockchain impacts money, banking, and public policy is no longer optional for professionals in the financial sector. This text-only course equips you with a foundational understanding of blockchain technology and its real-world implications for global finance. You will transition from a curious observer to a knowledgeable professional capable of analyzing decentralized systems, smart contracts, and regulatory challenges. What you'll learn: Understand the foundational mechanics of Bitcoin, cryptography, and distributed ledger technology; Analyze the commercial viability of smart contracts and decentralized applications in financial services; Evaluate the public policy, regulatory, and security frameworks shaping the future of digital assets; Explore the mechanics of stablecoins, Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs), and modern payment systems; Assess how financial institutions and startups leverage blockchain to reduce costs and increase transparency. The course begins with core terminology and the technical foundations of cryptography and consensus mechanisms. From there, you will explore practical applications in banking, modern decentralized finance frameworks, and global regulatory developments through structured written explanations and analytical exercises. Designed for beginners, this course requires no prior background in computer science, coding, or high finance. Start reading today to demystify the technology reshaping the future of money.