Bitcoin, the bellwether for cryptocurrencies, lost about half its value between mid-December and late February. Whether or not this is a cryptocurrency buying opportunity, the underlying blockchain technology is widely hailed as a fine business tool. Moreover, many peer-to-peer (P2P) lenders are looking at working in this space.
Our friends at Crowfundinsider carry a report on a Parliamentary enquiry into digital currencies and blockchain, to be led by Nicky Morgan, chair of the Treasury Select Committee.
The Treasury Committee of the UK House of Parliament has launched an inquiry into digital currencies and distributed ledger technology – also commonly referenced as Blockchain.
According to a memo published by the Committee, the inquiry will cover the role of digital currencies in the UK, including the opportunities and risks that digital currencies may bring to consumers, businesses, and the Government. In general, the Committee will review the impact of Blockchain technology on financial institutions including the central bank.
As part of the review, the Treasury Committee expects to “scrutinize” responses from the Financial Conduct Authority, Bank of England and other Governmental agencies. Ostensibly, the intent is to encourage innovation without undermining investor protection. The UK is a recognized global leader in Fintech innovation and Blockchain and virtual currencies is an important aspect of Fintech.
Our communications director is author and award-winning journalist, Martin Baker. He’s just produced a short book on one of the most talked-about sub-sectors of alternative finance: Bitcoin, Cryptocurrencies and Blockchain, 2018 – Mining Truth From Fiction is published by Wet Zebra Media, and is available as an e-book for £5. For more, CLICK HERE.
Martin chairs a new Money Matters podcast discussion on cryptocurrencies – click here to listen to the 15-minute discussion. The panellists are Money&Co. CEO Nicola Horlick, Lib Dem House of Lords finance spokesman, Baroness Susan Kramer, and David Buik of investment Bank, Panmure Gordon.
We currently have one A-rated, fixed-term loan on site, with a fixed rate of 8 per cent and a term of three years; it is presently 31 per cent bid – and will close when filled. More loans are due on site soon, including another A-rated loan, from Seascape (five-year term, yield of 9 per cent).
In addition to new loan offerings, our secondary loan market, offering existing loans for sale by lenders, is available to registered Money&Co. users.
All loans can be held, tax-free, in an Innovative Finance Individual Savings Account, or Innovative Finance ISA.
Risk: Security, Access, Yield
Do consider not just the return, but the security and the ease of access to your investment.We write regularly about these three key factors. Here’s an earlier article on security, access and yield.
If you haven’t made a loan via Money&Co. before, please read the risk warnings and the FAQ section. You may also wish to consult a financial adviser before making an investment. Capital is at risk, once loaned.