The Bitcoin Reformation
This piece analyzes the implications of bitcoin through a historical lens; specifically the Protestant Reformation in Europe of the 16th/17th centuries. Mr. Demeester compares the current state of the global monetary system, as an aging institution, to that of the Catholic church during the Reformation. Similarly to how technological developments challenged the church's reach in centuries past, Bitcoin and related tech are challenging today's institutions.
EXCERPT
This report makes the case that the 21st century emergence of bitcoin,
encryption, the internet, and millennials are more than just trends; they herald
a wave of change that exhibits similar dynamics as the 16-17th century
revolution that took place in Europe.
Some of the conclusions our report suggests:
- Bitcoin tolerance versus intolerance to become a major political faultline
- Bitcoinβs primary drivers will be in saving, lending and underwriting
- Collaborative custody to become an industry standard
- Offshore banking may transform into bitcoin banking
- Bitcoin to mature quickly: bonds, annuities, loans, insurance
- Initial exchange offerings (IEOs) expected to stay and grow larger
- Bitcoin savers could accelerate a revolution in the history of thought
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