The Bitcoin Big Bang: How Alternative Currencies Are about to Change the World Hardcover - 2014

From the jacket flap

Bitcoin gained notoriety among the public when it was linked to global black market trading rings, but the technology behind Bitcoin makes it far more interesting than your average alternative currency. The Bitcoin Big Bang approaches Bitcoin from a more complex perspective than has previously been attempted. Brian Kelly, a currency investment specialist with over 20 years of experience, conducted extensive research into the Bitcoin revolution and discovered a potential for widespread social transformation.

An understanding of how Bitcoin is changing the future of finance, and even the nature of the Internet itself, is mandatory for anyone looking to invest in or prepare for new trading platforms. Uniquely, The Bitcoin Big Bang emphasizes the technological underpinning of Bitcoin--the "blockchain." Whether Bitcoin is or isn't a legitimate currency is, according to Brian Kelly, next to irrelevant. With its ability to record every Bitcoin transaction and securely transfer value over insecure networks, the blockchain is a game changer. A world without identity theft, an Internet without passwords, a decentralized financial system, self-securing investments--all these previously unthinkable advances are possible using a technology that was given away for free by an enigmatic developer.

Those who are interested in investing in Bitcoin through purchasing or "mining" will find enough information to get started in The Bitcoin Big Bang. However, this book goes further than Bitcoin 101. Business readers will appreciate the in-depth look at regulatory issues and the discussions of cryptography, business strategy, human resource management, and the sharing economy. This is the long view. Looking beyond the bubble to the new reality of digital currency trading is a move any smart investor ought to make. Ultimately, The Bitcoin Big Bang answers one of the most pressing questions in finance, business, government, and beyond: "What is Bitcoin and how will it change the world?"