Triple-Entry Accounting (TEA) and Blockchain Implementation in Accounting and Finance - A Survey

Accounting practices are based on their underlying accounting principles, and currently, the Double-Entry Accounting (DEA) is used in both manual and computer-based Accounting Information Systems (AIS). DEA has been used for centuries according to the rules that were set when it was invented. At this stage, there is no further room to expand its functionality, but a logical expansion of DEA is possible. This new dimension is called Triple-Entry bookkeeping in which a third accounting entry is passed in a shared ledger that is distributed in nature and publicly visible. Similarly, Blockchain is a form of shared ledger distributed on a peer-to-peer network, and all transactions in the ledger are available to view. Blockchain emerged in 2008 as an underlying record-keeping and data storage technology for Bitcoin. It is believed that TEA is the idea behind the Blockchain. In this research study, we review the evolution of TEA and Blockchain from the existing academic literature, and the findings of the study will deepen the researchers' understanding of these two concepts and help them identify new opportunities.