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Article
Characteristics of Bitcoin Users: An Analysis of Google Search Data
Forthcoming, Applied Economics Letters (2015)
  • Matthew Wilson, University of Kentucky
  • Aaron Yelowitz, University of Kentucky
Abstract

The anonymity of Bitcoin prevents analysis of its users. We collect Google Trends data to examine determinants of interest in Bitcoin. Based on anecdotal evidence regarding Bitcoin users, we construct proxies for four possible clientele: computer programming enthusiasts, speculative investors, Libertarians, and criminals. Computer programming and illegal activity search terms are positively correlated with Bitcoin interest, while Libertarian and investment terms are not.

Disciplines
Publication Date
2015
Citation Information
Matthew Wilson and Aaron Yelowitz. "Characteristics of Bitcoin Users: An Analysis of Google Search Data" Forthcoming, Applied Economics Letters (2015)
Available at: http://works.bepress.com/yelowitz/37/