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Cryptoassets are an asset class recorded in a digital form that does not represent a financial claim or liability for an issuer or a custodian. This chapter provides a detailed review of various cryptoassets by comparing different characteristics, products, and listing exchanges and discusses criticisms of the crypto ecosystem. It also discusses cryptoasset features, methods of tokenization, and advances in decentralized, peer-to-peer exchanges. Another topic examined is the criticisms of cryptoasset exchanges and ongoing regulatory implications due to cryptocurrency’s open-source nature. The chapter evaluates numerous types and trends of cryptoassets, including currency, utility, platform, and transactional tokens.

Bitcoin’s introduction as the first cryptoasset in 2009 ushered in a new era, representing a seismic shift in the financial markets. Since then, this evolving asset class has generated much interest, excitement, and growth. This chapter begins by providing a brief background of cryptoassets. It then discusses their main types (cryptocurrencies, security tokens, and utility tokens), users (individual investors, major financial institutions, endowments, and hedge funds), and benefits and drawbacks. Next, it sets forth the book’s purpose, distinguishing features, intended audience, and structure. The chapter provides a synopsis of each of the remaining 21 chapters. Although no single book can encompass all changes and iterations of these technologies as they emerge in the marketplace, this book brings together a broad collection of industry expertise and academic analysis to create a book helpful to researchers, academics, and practitioners.

Blockchain is an emerging technology that started in the cryptocurrency sphere with bitcoin but expanded to include numerous applications. This chapter provides an overview of the book. It begins by identifying the three main components of a blockchain. Next, it discusses the book's purpose, distinguishing features, and its intended audience. The chapter then outlines the book's structure, consisting of 22 chapters divided into four main parts. It offers a brief synopsis of each section and chapter. Finally, it ends with a summary and conclusions.