Blockchain Technology in Payment Systems

Abstract

The paper is devoted to the analysis of the practice and prospects of application of blockchain technology to provide the exercise of payment services. In particular, it is noted that this technology can be used in the architecture of payment systems, as well as as the technological basis of payment instruments. In addition, blockchain can be used in areas directly related to payment services (for example, for customer identification, currency exchange operations, etc.). The author defines a number of concepts, in particular “peering payment system”, “mining”, “cryptocurrency wallet”. The paper highlights the necessity to differentiate between the actual peering payment systems (networks) and payment services operating with the use of blockchain technology. The latter can be decentralized in terms of how information is transmitted, but not managed. The presence of an entity controlling, administering or otherwise managing individual processes within such a system does not allow it to be regarded as truly decentralized — peering networks are based on the equality of all participants. According to the results of the study, it is concluded that the blockchain technology indeed has a high potential of practical application in the payment field. Meanwhile, currently a cryptocurrency wallet has significant limitations of practical application for the organization of mass payments. Therefore, this technology should not be expected to replace traditional payment institutions in the nearest future. It can be predicted that blockchain will be just implemented into the existing payment infrastructure, rather than replace it completely.