Swiss Bitcoiners Push to Amend Constitution, Integrate Bitcoin into Central Bank

A group of Swiss Bitcoin enthusiasts aims to modify the national constitution to include Bitcoin in the Swiss National Bank's reserves. Led by Yves Bennaïm, the group argues that Bitcoin will strengthen Swiss sovereignty and neutrality. However, they face challenges in obtaining 100,000 signatures for a referendum and overcoming central bank skepticism.

Swiss Bitcoin Advocates Aim to Amend National Constitution to Incorporate Bitcoin into Central Bank Reserves

A group of Bitcoin enthusiasts in Switzerland has initiated an effort to amend the Swiss constitution to incorporate Bitcoin into the reserves of the Swiss National Bank (SNB). The initiative, spearheaded by the nonprofit think tank 2B4CH, aims to leverage Bitcoin's potential to enhance Switzerland's national sovereignty and neutrality amid global economic volatility.

The Strategic Case for Bitcoin Integration

Yves Bennaïm, founder and chairman of 2B4CH, believes that including Bitcoin in the SNB's reserves would bolster Switzerland's financial resilience and maintain its long-standing tradition of neutrality. He argues that in a world characterized by economic and geopolitical uncertainty, Bitcoin offers a safe haven asset that can protect the country's wealth and independence.

Overcoming Hurdles to Constitutional Amendment

To amend the Swiss constitution, the initiative requires the collection of over 100,000 signatures from Swiss nationals within 18 months. This hurdle proved insurmountable during 2B4CH's previous attempt in 2021. However, the group remains undeterred and is confident in gathering the necessary support this time around.

Central Bank Skepticism and Internal Advocacy

The Swiss National Bank has expressed skepticism about Bitcoin's suitability as a reserve currency, citing concerns about its volatility and lack of intrinsic value. However, Bitcoin advocates within the bank, such as Luzius Meisser, president of the Bitcoin trading platform Bitcoin Suisse, continue to press for its inclusion. Meisser argues that the SNB could have reaped significant financial gains had it followed his advice to purchase Bitcoin in 2022.

External Support and International Context

The initiative has garnered support from other Bitcoin advocates, including politicians and financial experts. Joana Cotar, a German politician critical of the European Union's digital currency, has welcomed the development. Leon Curti from Digital Asset Solutions believes that the recent approval of spot Bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs) in the United States and Hong Kong could sway the SNB to reconsider its stance on Bitcoin.

The Road Ahead

The proposal to amend the Swiss constitution to incorporate Bitcoin into the SNB's reserves faces significant hurdles, including the need for substantial public support and the skepticism of the central bank. However, the initiative's proponents remain optimistic, arguing that the strategic benefits of Bitcoin for Switzerland outweigh the perceived risks. The outcome of this effort will shed light on the evolving role of cryptocurrencies in central bank reserves and the broader acceptance of Bitcoin as a legitimate asset for safeguarding national wealth.