Cryptocurrencies: Future or bubble?

Brian Down from Focus Economics was looking for a response on cryptocurrencies…could make an interesting thread!

I’m emailing you today because I am putting together a piece on cryptocurrencies and it would be great to get a comment from you on the subject.

While some believe that cryptocurrencies are the future, the prevailing view appears to be that cryptos are nothing more than the 21st century version of Tulip Mania. Despite this prevailing view, central banks appear to be exploring blockchain with a view to creating their own digital currencies. If you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em, so to speak.

With that said, I’d like to get your view of the future regarding crypto/digital currencies, especially in regards to newly launched casinos in the UK. If you’re interested, you can answer my questions below or just give me your general view.

  1. Could cryptocurrencies supplant traditional currencies or are alternative currencies a bubble that will eventually burst?

  2. Could a central bank really issue its own digital currency in the near future? How could this affect the world economy and financial markets?