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Four Years After Launching Its Plan B, Lugano Continues to Bet on Bitcoin
🇨🇭 Switzerland /Technology

Four Years After Launching Its Plan B, Lugano Continues to Bet on Bitcoin

From Le Temps · (1h ago) French Positive tone

Translated from French, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

TLDR

  • Lugano's "Plan B," launched four years ago, has positioned the city as an international digital innovation hub, particularly in cryptocurrency.
  • The initiative has led to the creation of blockchain and decentralized finance courses, a downtown hub for crypto businesses, and the adoption of digital currencies for payments.
  • The plan is now entering its second four-year phase, aiming to further solidify Lugano's status as a "European capital of bitcoin."

Four years after its ambitious "Plan B" kicked off, Lugano is not just celebrating an anniversary; it's doubling down on its commitment to becoming a global leader in digital finance and innovation. The city, boldly rebranding itself as the "European capital of bitcoin," has seen tangible results from its forward-thinking strategy.

Mayor Michele Foletti proudly points to the establishment of specialized academic programs in blockchain and decentralized finance, a dedicated hub attracting crypto-native companies, and the successful onboarding of over 100 blockchain-focused businesses. This isn't just about attracting investment; it's about building an ecosystem where innovation can flourish.

The practical integration of cryptocurrencies into daily life is perhaps the most striking achievement. With over 400 merchants now equipped to accept payments in local currency (LVGA), bitcoin, and tether, and the commune itself enabling certain administrative payments in digital currencies, Lugano is demonstrating a real-world application of this technology.

As Plan B enters its second four-year phase, the focus remains on consolidating these gains and pushing the boundaries further. Lugano's journey is a compelling case study for other cities grappling with economic transformation, showcasing how a proactive embrace of emerging technologies can redefine a community's future on the international stage.

has positioned Lugano as an international digital innovation hub

— Michele FolettiThe mayor of Lugano commenting on the success of the city's "Plan B" initiative after four years.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Le Temps in French. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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