Prime Minister Announces Bitcoin Payments for State Services
Liechtenstein’s Prime Minister, Daniel Risch, revealed in an interview with German business daily Handelsblatt that the country is planning to allow Bitcoin payments for certain state services. Although Risch did not provide a specific timeframe, he confirmed that the new payment option is in the works.
As the nation’s Finance Minister, Risch also mentioned that Liechtenstein intends to accept Bitcoin deposits and promptly exchange them for Swiss francs, the country’s national currency. This move demonstrates Liechtenstein’s openness to embracing cryptocurrency technologies while maintaining its existing financial structure.
Future Investment in Bitcoin and State Reserves
Despite being cautious about investing state reserves in Bitcoin, Prime Minister Risch has not ruled out the possibility for the future. Liechtenstein’s state reserves, primarily invested in the capital market, currently amount to 2.23 billion Swiss francs (approximately $2.51 billion), as reported by Handelsblatt citing the finance ministry.
Risch believes that cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin are still too risky at present, but acknowledges that this assessment could change in the future. Liechtenstein’s consideration of Bitcoin payments for state services and potential investment in the digital currency reflects the growing acceptance of cryptocurrencies around the world.
