Since the introduction of Bitcoin in 2009, cryptocurrencies and the blockchain technology behind them have grown in popularity. A new funding mechanism has emerged from blockchain technology, referred to as Initial Coin Offering (hereafter abbreviated as ICO). Recently, this instrument has been increasingly used to finance blockchain-based projects and represents a new alternative to traditional forms of capital raising such as venture capital financing.
Although the investors often receive neither co-determination rights nor a share in the profits of the project in return for their financial resources, the organizations implementing the ICOs manage to collect millions of euros within a few hours. The venture capital raised through ICOs has grown from around $300 million to around $19.4 billion since January 2017 to June 2018. Due to the rapidly increasing popularity of ICOs, the new financing mechanism is the focus of this bachelor thesis. This serves as introductory literature for the reader and gives him an understanding of the new form of corporate financing. In addition, it should be examined whether the recent success of the ICOs can be justified.
Inhaltsverzeichnis (Table of Contents)
- Introduction
- Blockchain technology
- Introduction to the Initial Coin Offerings
- Definition
- Development
- Roadmap
- Design
- Token typology
- Legal considerations
- Assessment of the new financial mechanism
- Opportunities of ICO
- Risks of ICOs
- Conclusion
Zielsetzung und Themenschwerpunkte (Objectives and Key Themes)
This bachelor thesis aims to introduce readers to the Initial Coin Offering (ICO) as a new form of corporate financing and analyze its recent success. It explores the advantages and disadvantages of this financing mechanism for both companies and investors, comparing ICOs to traditional financial instruments. The thesis aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of ICOs, their potential impact on the market, and the risks associated with their implementation.
- The nature and functionality of blockchain technology
- The process and design of Initial Coin Offerings
- The opportunities and risks of ICOs for companies and investors
- Comparison of ICOs with traditional financial instruments
- The implications of ICOs for the financial market
Zusammenfassung der Kapitel (Chapter Summaries)
- Introduction: This chapter sets the stage for the thesis by providing an overview of the rising popularity of cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology, which led to the emergence of ICOs. It highlights the rapid growth of ICO funding and emphasizes the importance of understanding this new form of corporate financing.
- Blockchain technology: This chapter explores the fundamentals of blockchain technology, explaining its underlying principles and functionalities. It also touches upon the significance of this technology in enabling the development of ICOs.
- Introduction to the Initial Coin Offerings: This chapter delves into the definition and development of ICOs, outlining the process of creating and implementing them. It examines key aspects such as roadmap design, token typology, and legal considerations surrounding ICOs.
- Assessment of the new financial mechanism: This chapter analyzes the advantages and disadvantages of ICOs as a financing mechanism, highlighting potential opportunities and risks for both companies and investors. It compares ICOs to traditional financial instruments and explores their impact on the broader market.
Schlüsselwörter (Keywords)
The key terms and concepts explored in this bachelor thesis include: Initial Coin Offering (ICO), blockchain technology, cryptocurrency, venture capital financing, corporate finance, token typology, legal considerations, financial regulation, opportunities, risks, and market impact.
- Quote paper
- Simon Kröger (Author), 2018, Initial Coin Offering. New form of corporate financing, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/1196222