In simple terms, an initial coin offering is an unregulated means to raise funds for a new crypto-currency business.

It allows investors to buy newly created tokens – known as coins – issued by a venture in return for more established virtual currencies, such as bitcoins or ethereum.

It is often compared to an IPO (initial public offering) – but the obvious difference is that the public does not get a stake in the business itself.

Source: BBC Technology News

Date: September 7th, 2017

Link: http://www.bbc.com/news/technology-41187184

Discussion

1) ICO (Initial Coin Offering) is the new IPO.  Why would companies want to raise money without being regulated?

2) What are the issues for banks and investment banks when it comes to crypto-currencies?