We establish that the risk-return tradeoff of cryptocurrencies (Bitcoin, Ripple, and Ethereum) is distinct from those of stocks, currencies, and precious metals. Cryptocurrencies have no exposure to most common stock market and macroeconomic factors or to the returns of currencies and...

We study carry trades in the cryptocurrency market and document that the lack of sufficient arbitrage capital in combination with highly levered speculators creates ample carry opportunities. We find that carry in bitcoin, as measured by the funding rate of BTC/USD perpetual swaps, resembles...

We present three modules that can be used in finance and investment courses to introduce undergraduate students to cryptocurrency risks and returns. Detailed instructions include learning objectives, assignment instructions, and links to free online resources. In Module 1, students are provided...