Token Offerings: A Revolution in Corporate Finance?

Abstract

Token offerings or initial coin offerings (ICOs) are smart contracts based on blockchain technology designed to raise external finance without an intermediary. The new technology might herald a revolution in entrepreneurial and corporate finance, with soaring market growth rates over the last two years. This paper surveys the market evolution, offering mechanisms, and token types. Stylized facts on the pricing and long-term performance of ICOs are presented, and practical implications for this young market to thrive are discussed.

Keywords: Initial Coin Offerings, Token Offerings, Token Sales, ICOs, Crowdfunding, Blockchain, Distributed Ledger Technology, Corporate Finance, Entrepreneurial Finance

JEL Classification: G10, G18, G23, G24, G30, K22, L26