Bitcoin: Where Two Worlds Collide

Russ Marshall

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleResearchpeer-review

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Abstract

There are over 275 virtual currencies in existence today. One of these currencies is Bitcoin, the largest and
most recognised virtual currency in the world. With its exponential growth over recent years, Bitcoin is
bringing a degree of permanence for, and dependability on virtual currencies that can no longer be ignored by
regulators. While an increase in international regulatory activity over the past 12 months suggests that some
governments understand this, Australian regulators appear reluctant to act. In addition to examining Bitcoin’s
operational system in detail, this article examines the affect that Bitcoin is having on two key features of the
financial system: (1) the money laundering and illicit finance supply system; and (2) the payment system. By
comparing the effectiveness of the response measures enacted by Australian and international regulators in
Canada, Singapore, the United States, and the United Kingdom, this article demonstrates that even though
Australia’s current payment system policy is capable of addressing the threats posed by virtual currencies, the
current money laundering and terrorist financing regulations fail to satisfy Australia’s international obligations,
and stifle the legitimate use and development of virtual currencies in Australia.
Original languageEnglish
Article number5
Pages (from-to)89-112
JournalBond Law Review
Volume27
Issue number1
Publication statusPublished - 2015

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