Virtual currency schemes – the future of financial services
Purpose – The purpose of the paper is to determine the future role of virtual currencies. This paper indicates their pros and cons as alternatives to “real” money and explains their appearance as the reflection of the present trends. It also presents the possible scenarios of their development. Design/methodology/approach – The paper is based on the former foresight research results and literature review. It highlights the main trends in contemporary economy and their impact on financial services. The Bitcoin case is the starting point for the virtual currencies’ market analysis and construction of possible market changes scenarios. Findings – Virtual currency schemes are the reflection of present trends. They are just ahead of our times but may become a common means of payment, changing the way of providing financial services, eliminating intermediaries and marginalizing the role of financial institutions. Research limitations/implications – The multiplicity of virtual currencies and ceaseless introducti...
The future of financial services in Europe
Financial services in Europe have undergone dramatic changes in recent years. Much of this is due to developments in information and communication technologies, the arrival of European Monetary Union and the ageing population. These will continue to be important drivers of change as the industry continues to evolve. The future may see the emergence of a few major global players though national sensitivities and preferences may limit mergers. “Surprise‐free”, alternative and wild card scenarios are outlined and a range of issues which appear important for policy makers to consider is raised.
The role and development of EU capital markets
The 1992 "Single Market" failed to create a real single market for financial services across Europe. However, the boom in bond issuance (stimulated by EMU) and the coincidental equity issuance boom have both led to dramatic changes in the infrastructure of financial markets. So, the EU is well past the point of no return in the creation of a single financial market. If regulatory reform can be certain, and coincide with the rising pillars of reform in the dealing and settlement systems, then a dramatic revolution of European financial services will have been achieved - within a decade of the start of EMU.