Stablecoins

Abstract

This chapter introduces the concept of stablecoins such as Tether, DAI, or Ampleforth. It also provides a taxonomy of the different types of stablecoins consisting of (1) traditional asset-backed stablecoins, (2) crypto-collateralized stablecoins, and (3) algorithmic stablecoins and seigniorage shares. The chapter continues with a brief history of stablecoins, starting from BitShares as the first stablecoin implementation over tether and market-wide stablecoin adoption to Facebook-initiated Diem. Next, the chapter explains the impact of stablecoins on cryptocurrencies and other markets and discusses trends and challenges facing stablecoins. The chapter provides a basic understanding of stablecoins, their defining characteristics, challenges, and markets.

Citation

Fiedler, I. and Ante, L. (2023), "Stablecoins", Baker, H.K., Benedetti, H., Nikbakht, E. and Smith, S.S. (Ed.) The Emerald Handbook on Cryptoassets: Investment Opportunities and Challenges, Emerald Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 93-105. https://doi.org/10.1108/978-1-80455-320-620221007