Blockchain Technology: Cryptoassets as a Disruptive Economic Medium and Their Global Impact

Abstract

Objective: To analyze how crypto-assets have emerged as digital alternatives for storing value and facilitating exchange in the face of global economic uncertainty, in contrast to government monetary policies.

Importance of the topic: Economic slowdown, high levels of indebtedness, and market volatility have driven the search for alternative mechanisms to preserve wealth against the loss of purchasing power of fiat money.

Design and methodology: A qualitative approach based on a literature review of scientific articles, institutional reports, and specialized academic sources on blockchain, crypto-assets, and monetary policy was employed. The analysis was structured around three thematic areas: the global economic landscape, the effects of expansionary monetary policy and traditional store-of-value alternatives, and crypto-assets as a technological response.

Main findings: The findings showed that blockchain technology provides transparency, security, decentralization, and lower transaction costs, thereby strengthening the confidence of investors and institutions. In addition, increasing institutional and regulatory adoption was identified, driven by new legal frameworks in the United States and Europe, which have facilitated the integration of cryptocurrencies and stablecoins into payment systems, investment portfolios, and retirement plans.

Research implications: The study expands the understanding of the role of crypto-assets within the contemporary financial system and provides evidence for analyzing their evolution in contexts of economic uncertainty.

Practical implications: The findings provide valuable insights for policymakers, financial institutions, and investors seeking to better understand the opportunities and challenges associated with the adoption of crypto-assets.

Social implications: The expansion of crypto-assets may foster financial innovation, broaden investment opportunities, and contribute to the development of more inclusive digital financial ecosystems, provided that financial literacy and cybersecurity capabilities continue to be strengthened.

Originality and value: The study integrates the analysis of the macroeconomic environment, monetary policy, and blockchain technological development to explain the growth of crypto-assets as an alternative to the traditional financial system.

Conclusions: Although challenges related to price volatility and financial and digital literacy remain, crypto-assets represent a disruptive alternative with the potential to foster economic innovation and contribute to the future transformation of the global financial system.

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