Finance

December 2024 witnessed a significant milestone as Bitcoin's price soared to $100,000, spurred by ambitious political promises and institutional support. This new height in Bitcoin's value is seen as a pivotal moment for the cryptocurrency market.

The U.S. SEC has officially classified XRP as a Strategic Asset, marking a significant evolution in the financial landscape. President Trump has also announced the creation of a U.S. Crypto Strategic Reserve that includes XRP. This move is expected to elevate the role of digital assets in the U.S. economy.

This edition of "Professors' Picks" explores articles from the Financial Times that provide valuable insights for business classrooms. Topics such as Maersk's acquisition of the Panama Canal Railway and BP's strategic shift back to oil highlight crucial themes in supply chain strategy and responsible leadership.

The UK government has announced draft legislation aimed at regulating cryptocurrency exchanges, dealers, and agents for the first time. This move seeks to enhance transparency and consumer protection in the crypto-asset sector while addressing misconduct. With a notable increase in UK adults engaging with cryptocurrencies, the legislation is expected to be finalized by the end of 2025. Critics, however, caution that regulation could foster a false sense of safety regarding these inherently risky assets.