Welcome to the Bitcoin Hub
The Bitcoin Embassy in Amsterdam has quickly established itself as the must-visit location for anyone interested in cryptocurrency. Opened just last month on December 12, 2014, the embassy promises not just a gateway for local enthusiasts but also for travelers from across Europe and beyond. With regular events hosted by notable companies in the crypto community, it’s the place where Bitcoin’s best and brightest converge.
A New Kind of Embassy
Inspired by the pioneering Tel Aviv Bitcoin emBassy, Marek Skonieczny, the embassy’s founder and ambassador, aimed to create a supportive space for all Bitcoin activities. Marek shared his vision: “We needed a space that was more about community than business pitches, where anyone curious about Bitcoin could comfortably drop by for a chat or an event.”
The Foundation versus the Embassy
Interestingly, Marek founded the embassy in response to the Bitcoin Foundation’s approach in the Netherlands. While the Foundation pushed the narrative of Bitcoin as money, Marek described it as more of a business maneuver rather than a grassroots effort. “They organized meet-ups that felt more like sales pitches than community gatherings. We needed something different – a place where the conversation was more collaborative,” he explained.
Banking Woes and Legislative Challenges
For those in the Netherlands wanting to venture into Bitcoin business, the bureaucratic road can be bumpy, with banks often wary of cryptocurrencies. As Marek points out, even having the term “Bit” in your company name can invoke serious hurdles. “Banks don’t care about individual transactions, but businesses? That’s a different story. They keep their eyes peeled for anything that smells like Bitcoin,” he lamented.
Innovation Over Regulation
The Embassy’s approach to operating outside of the traditional regulatory framework marks an interesting shift in how cryptocurrency communities engage with local laws. Marek proudly states, “We’re not officially registered; we prefer to operate the Bitcoin way, with sponsors directly funding our activities. It’s a peculiar kind of organized chaos, akin to operating a secret club.
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