The module is divided into two parts which focus on the IT evolution and how it has affected the financial market and monetary system.

1. The first part focuses on decentralised finance and its applications. The module provides an introduction of a series Financial Technologies (Fintech) applications including an analysis of Peer-to-Peer (P2P) lending platform. A blend of qualitative and quantitative approaches will be used, and some of the discussions and analysis will be based on real data where a programming language such as Python is used.

2. The second half of the module focuses on blockchain technology. The module provides a comprehensive analysis on blockchain technology and cryptocurrency using the case of Bitcoin. Decentralised Finance (De-Fi) applications, such as Decentralised Exchanges (DEXEs), Lending & Borrowing and margin trading, are introduced to demonstrate how De-Fi works on Ethereum blockchain network using smart contracts. Building on blockchain technology, the module will introduce you to the token economy system and Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC). Syllabus:

Introduction: the basic terminologies and fundamentals of Digital Finance and Fintech are provided. 
	Decentralised Finance – P2P technology as a case study: the module provides a combination of qualitative and quantitative analysis of P2P lending platform. 
	Blockchain and Cryptocurrencies: the module provides the foundation of blockchains both theoretically and from an application point of view. ·
	De-Fi applications: the module introduces some of the most popular De-Fi applications based on Ethereum smart contracts. ·
	Token Economy and CBDC
Learning Outcomes: 

Understanding of the foundations of a well-designed decentralized payment system providing business-to-business and business-to-consumer solutions.
	Making optimal financial decisions using real data and machine learning in the case of P2P lending. 
	Deep understanding of Blockchain technology and cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin.