Exploring Cryptocurrency Readiness Among University Students

Abstract

Digital currency or cryptocurrency, the latest development in investment is a virtual medium to purchase and sell goods and services, plays the role of a diversification tool, and features an attractive, alternative store of value. Recently, the Malaysian regulators were urged to legalise cryptocurrency as it is very attractive to young investors. Despite the overwhelming interests among young investors, they have held their interests over cryptocurrency due to the fear of the unknown and a few of its vague areas. This research is undertaken to explore the cryptocurrency interest and awareness among undergraduate university students as potential future cryptocurrency investors. As of to date, 116 students have participated in data collection and at this stage, the preliminary findings will be reported. About 78% of the young respondents admitted that they had little or no knowledge of the virtual currency. This research contributed in exploring cryptocurrency's value and risk from users' perspectives in a developing country setting such as Malaysia. This might shed new lights in raising awareness among the youth while managing cryptocurrency developments by regulators. More future research should be undertaken to assess the behavioural traits of the cryptocurrency providers, players as well as the societal acceptance of it.