A Normative Dual-value Theory for Bitcoin and other Cryptocurrencies

TL;DR

This paper introduces a dual-value theory for cryptocurrencies, decomposing their worth into art and use values, to better understand their intrinsic value and address bifurcation issues.

Contribution

It proposes a novel dual-value framework inspired by the art market to evaluate cryptocurrency value, considering both art and use aspects.

Findings

The dual-value model helps assess new cryptocurrencies' prospects.

Applying the model to major cryptocurrencies demonstrates its validity.

The framework aids investors and exchanges in valuation decisions.

Abstract

Bitcoin as well as other cryptocurrencies are all plagued by the impact from bifurcation. Since the marginal cost of bifurcation is theoretically zero, it causes the coin holders to doubt on the existence of the coin's intrinsic value. This paper suggests a normative dual-value theory to assess the fundamental value of Bitcoin. We draw on the experience from the art market, where similar replication problems are prevalent. The idea is to decompose the total value of a cryptocurrency into two parts: one is its art value and the other is its use value. The tradeoff between these two values is also analyzed, which enlightens our proposal of an image coin for Bitcoin so as to elevate its use value without sacrificing its art value. To show the general validity of the dual-value theory, we also apply it to evaluate the prospects of four major cryptocurrencies. We find this framework is helpful for both the investors and the exchanges to examine a new coin's value when it first appears in the market.