Download This PaperCharacteristics of Bitcoin Users: An Analysis of Google Search Data
13 Pages Posted: 5 Nov 2014
Date Written: November 3, 2014
Abstract
The anonymity of Bitcoin prevents analysis of its users. We collect Google Trends data to examine determinants of interest in Bitcoin. Based on anecdotal evidence regarding Bitcoin users, we construct proxies for four possible clientele: computer programming enthusiasts, speculative investors, Libertarians, and criminals. Computer programming and illegal activity search terms are positively correlated with Bitcoin interest, while Libertarian and investment terms are not.
Keywords: Bitcoin, Digital currency, Google search data, Libertarians, Illegal Activity
JEL Classification: E42, F33, K42, K49
Suggested Citation: Suggested Citation
Wilson, Matthew and Yelowitz, Aaron, Characteristics of Bitcoin Users: An Analysis of Google Search Data (November 3, 2014). Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=2518603 or http://dx.doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.2518603
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