In a McDonald's by a lake surrounded by mountains, in the centre of the Swiss city of Lugano, a customer orders coffee. Can I pay with bitcoin? he asks, and the person behind the counter holds out what looks like a credit card payment terminal. However, it's a machine for paying with cryptocurrency, freely provided by the city council to local businesses.
Despite the general perception of Bitcoin as an investment rather than a currency, Lugano stands out with its modern approach. With over 350 local shops and restaurants now accepting Bitcoin, even municipal services have begun accommodating cryptocurrency transactions, making it possible to pay for services like preschool childcare in Bitcoin.
Nicolas, a customer at McDonald's, expresses his belief in Bitcoin as liberating. You're no longer dependent on a financial system with its middlemen and costs, he says. This sentiment resonates throughout the city, where Bitcoin 'gift cards' are popular, allowing residents to convert Swiss francs to cryptocurrency seamlessly.
Local shopkeeper Cherubino Fry explains why he accepts Bitcoin, citing lower transaction fees than credit cards, and believes Bitcoin usage will grow significantly in the future.
Lugano’s local authority, partnering with cryptocurrency platform Tether, aims to make the city a hub for Bitcoin knowledge and transactions. Although some locals remain doubtful about cryptocurrencies, citing the risks associated with their volatility and possible illegal uses, the city's initiative continues to attract businesses and cryptocurrency enthusiasts alike.
Despite not being universally embraced, Lugano’s efforts to integrate Bitcoin into daily life showcase the city’s innovative spirit and a potential shift in how we view and use money.
Despite the general perception of Bitcoin as an investment rather than a currency, Lugano stands out with its modern approach. With over 350 local shops and restaurants now accepting Bitcoin, even municipal services have begun accommodating cryptocurrency transactions, making it possible to pay for services like preschool childcare in Bitcoin.
Nicolas, a customer at McDonald's, expresses his belief in Bitcoin as liberating. You're no longer dependent on a financial system with its middlemen and costs, he says. This sentiment resonates throughout the city, where Bitcoin 'gift cards' are popular, allowing residents to convert Swiss francs to cryptocurrency seamlessly.
Local shopkeeper Cherubino Fry explains why he accepts Bitcoin, citing lower transaction fees than credit cards, and believes Bitcoin usage will grow significantly in the future.
Lugano’s local authority, partnering with cryptocurrency platform Tether, aims to make the city a hub for Bitcoin knowledge and transactions. Although some locals remain doubtful about cryptocurrencies, citing the risks associated with their volatility and possible illegal uses, the city's initiative continues to attract businesses and cryptocurrency enthusiasts alike.
Despite not being universally embraced, Lugano’s efforts to integrate Bitcoin into daily life showcase the city’s innovative spirit and a potential shift in how we view and use money.
