Debate Heats Up: Should Swiss National Bank Invest in Bitcoin?

27 April 2024

Advocates push for Bitcoin to be part of the Swiss National Bank’s reserves, arguing it could enhance sovereignty and profitability. The SNB, however, remains cautious due to liquidity and environmental concerns.

The Swiss National Bank (SNB) remains cautious about investing in Bitcoin, as highlighted by Chairman Thomas Jordan during the bank’s annual general meeting. Despite a campaign pushing for Bitcoin to be included in the SNB's currency reserves, Jordan cited concerns over Bitcoin’s energy consumption and the need for liquidity and sustainability in currency reserves.

The campaign, led by groups including Bitcoin Suisse, argues that holding Bitcoin could bolster Swiss sovereignty and neutrality while diversifying the SNB’s investments. Luzius Meisser of Bitcoin Suisse criticized the SNB's current investments in government bonds, suggesting that Bitcoin would be a more profitable and secure alternative.

The push for Bitcoin inclusion in the SNB's reserves may be headed for a referendum, reflecting the growing debate over the role of cryptocurrencies in national financial strategies. However, the SNB maintains that its reserves must be easily tradable and environmentally sustainable, considerations that currently weigh against Bitcoin.

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Aisha Patel
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Aisha Fatima Patel, born in Mumbai, India, is a seasoned financial correspondent with a Master's in Financial Journalism from Northwestern University. Aisha's impactful career spans roles as a Senior Financial Correspondent at the Mumbai Financial Times and a Lead Analyst at Global Crypto Insights. Her interests include emerging markets, impact investing, yoga, and Indian classical dance.
Isabella Morales
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Buenos Aires native Isabella Maria Morales is an accomplished financial reporter with a Bachelor's in Economics from the University of Buenos Aires. Isabella has contributed significantly to the field, with roles as a Financial Reporter at the Buenos Aires Herald and a Senior Analyst at the Latin American Finance Review. Her interests span Latin American economic development, tango dancing, gastronomy, and travel.
Lucas Reynolds
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Toronto-born Lucas Benjamin Reynolds, with a Bachelor's in Economics from the University of Toronto, is a respected financial analyst. Lucas has contributed significantly as a Financial Analyst at the Canadian Economic Review and a Lead Writer at Crypto Trends Magazine. His interests span behavioral economics, skiing, jazz music, and environmental activism.

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