Revolutionizing Contracts: The Impact of Blockchain Technology and Smart Contracts

9 Pages Posted: 20 Dec 2024 Last revised: 1 Mar 2025

See all articles by Natália Tavares Borges

Natália Tavares Borges

University of Minho, School of Law

Rui Pedro Rodrigues Leite

University of Minho, School of Law

Date Written: December 12, 2024

Abstract

Blockchain technology and smart contracts are transforming the way contracts are conceived, executed, and enforced, representing a paradigm shift in legal and business processes. This paper examines the foundational principles of blockchain, a decentralized and immutable digital ledger, and explores the revolutionary concept of smart contracts, which are self-executing agreements embedded within blockchain code. By eliminating interme diaries, these technologies enhance transparency, security, and efficiency across various sectors, from finance and supply chain management to legal services and decentralized finance (DeFi). T he findings underscore that, while blockchain and smart contracts hold immense promise for revolutionizing in dustries and fostering innovation, their widespread adoption necessitates robust technological advancements, cohe sive regulatory frameworks, and cooperative efforts among stakeholders. This paper confidently argues that address ing these challenges is an essential step to harnessing the full capabilities of blockchain and smart contracts, enabling their profound impact on modern economies and global digital ecosystems.

Keywords: Blockchain, Smart Contracts, Global Digital Ecosystems, Transparency, Modern Economy

Suggested Citation

Tavares Borges, Natália and Rodrigues Leite, Rui Pedro, Revolutionizing Contracts: The Impact of Blockchain Technology and Smart Contracts (December 12, 2024). JusGov Research Paper No. 2024-23, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=5064863 or http://dx.doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.5064863

Natália Tavares Borges (Contact Author)

University of Minho, School of Law ( email )

Rui Pedro Rodrigues Leite

University of Minho, School of Law ( email )

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