It was the desire to educate and inform people about the transformative potential of the crypto technologies that motivated Mukesh Jindal, a finance expert and crypto enthusiast, to write Crypto The Disruptor: The Rise of Money from Barter to Bitcoin. “I aim to demystify the complex concepts of blockchain, digital currencies and the underlying principles of decentralisation. I am also inspired by the opportunities these technologies present for financial inclusion, privacy and innovation, as well as the challenges and implications for traditional financial systems and regulatory frameworks,” says Jindal.

The book can serve as a guide for investors, professionals and enthusiasts navigating the rapidly evolving landscape of digital finance, he feels. It simplifies the history of money, how the economic medium of exchange transformed from precious goods in ancient times to a piece of paper and now to a non-tangible digital token. It further speculates on the future course money will take.

Here is an excerpt:

‘Are we losing trust in our centralized financial systems? Is our centralized world of finance about to witness decentralization or public ownership similar to the internet? Is the decentralized financial (DeFi) system the most transparent way to embrace the technology-driven economy of the future? Are we heading towards a DeFi world altogether? Technologies such as blockchain, artificial intelligence and crypto assets are indeed leading us towards that end. At this juncture, both world history and financial history are about to take an extraordinary turn.

To a species for which the lust for wars, colonization, exploitation and profit runs through its veins, it would be no surprise if a modern-day Columbus embarked on a virtual voyage aboard the Santa Maria in search of a new world.

There is no doubt that we will rely more on the virtual world in the post-pandemic era. And while plucking the fruits of the digital virtual world, our usual way of living, traditional business models and economies will tumble down to ashes. Nevertheless, our never-ending curiosity will ensure that we don’t rest until we find new virtual terrains that satiate our lust for profit and growth. As the virtual world is endless, our quest for and conquest of virtual treasure islands and new worlds will never end.’

There were moments of realisation for Jindal while writing the book, like how blockchain technology could revolutionise financial transactions, or the potential for decentralised systems to empower individuals and disrupt traditional banking. “These insights are pivotal and shaped the direction of the book and energising the writing process,” he says.

Beyond his work and writing, Jindal finds happiness in the simple joys and passions of everyday life. “I find immense joy in the quiet moments of reflection, the laughter shared with family and friends, and the thrill of discovering new places and experiences. My love for nature, with its boundless beauty and serenity, recharges my soul and inspires my creativity. Music and books enrich my spirit and broaden my perspective. These elements, woven together, create the tapestry of who I am, infusing my writing with authenticity and depth. They are the heartbeat of my existence, the essence of my being,” he says.

What Next

Jindal’s next book will be on in-depth exploration of the world of cryptocurrencies. It is designed to be a thorough guide for both trading and investing in crypto assets, offering insights from the basics to advanced strategies, he elaborates. “This book aims to equip readers with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate the dynamic crypto market confidently. My goal is to help investors make informed decisions and maximise their potential in the cryptocurrency space,” he says.