Revolutionizing finance with bitcoin and blockchain: a literature review and research agenda

Abstract

PurposeOur analysis is targeted at researchers in the fields of economics and finance, and we place emphasis on the incremental contributions of each paper, key research questions, study methodology, main conclusions and data and identification tactics. By focusing on these critical areas, our review seeks to provide valuable insights and guidance for future research in this rapidly evolving and complex field.Design/methodology/approachThis paper conducts a structured literature review (SLR) of Bitcoin-related articles published in the leading finance, economics and accounting journals between 2018 and 2023. Following Massaro et al. (2016), SLR is a method for examining a corpus of scholarly work to generate new ideas, critical reflections and future research agendas. The goals of SLR are congruent with the three outcomes of critical management research identified by Alvesson and Deetz (2000): insight, critique and transformative redefinition.FindingsThe present state of research on Bitcoin lacks coherence and interconnectedness, leading to a limited understanding of the underlying mechanisms. However, certain areas of research have emerged as significant topics for further exploration. These include the decentralized payment system, equilibrium price, market microstructure, trading patterns and regulation of Bitcoin. In this context, this review serves as a valuable starting point for researchers who are unacquainted with the interdisciplinary field of bitcoin and blockchain research. It is essential to recognize the potential value of research in Bitcoin-related fields in advancing knowledge of the interaction between finance, economics, law and technology. Therefore, future research in this area should focus on adopting innovative and interdisciplinary methods to enhance our comprehension of these intricate and evolving technologies.Originality/valueOur review encompasses the latest research on Bitcoin, including its market microstructure, trading behavior, price patterns and portfolio analysis. It explores Bitcoin's market microstructure, liquidity, derivative markets, price discovery and market efficiency. Studies have also focused on trading behavior, investors' characteristics, market sentiment and price volatility. Furthermore, empirical studies demonstrate the advantages of including Bitcoin in a portfolio. These findings enhance our understanding of Bitcoin's potential impact on the financial industry.