In this article, we give a short introduction to cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology. The focus
of the introduction is on Bitcoin, but many elements are shared by other blockchain implementations
and alternative cryptoassets. The article covers the original idea and motivation, the mode of operation
and possible applications of cryptocurrencies, and blockchain technology. We conclude that Bitcoin
has a wide range of interesting applications and that cryptoassets are well suited to become an
important asset class.
