In this post we outline a list of the top locations or “hubs” for crypto enthusiasts to live and work.
Crypto Valley (Zug, Switzerland)
Switzerland’s Crypto Valley is perhaps the most famous hub for crypto startups. As the Crypto Valley Association says on their website:
Located in Zug in the heart of Switzerland, Crypto Valley is uniquely positioned to make the most of the decentralized Swiss political system and its matchless business environment. Zug offers a robust platform for global growth due to its pro-business philosophy and the openness and easy accessibility of its local government. Zug’s low-tax, business-friendly environment and fantastic quality of life have attracted many of the world’s leading companies, creating an international, cosmopolitan culture, and easy access to powerful global networks.
Finance Hub (London, United Kingdom)
London is the world’s finance hub, and for good reasons.
The city has a diverse and international population, a huge range of startups and established financial institutions, and many other benefits that make it a magnet for workers and businesses from all around the world.
It is home to more bank head offices than any other place in the world and has excellent flight connections across the globe. For companies like Bitstamp and Elliptic this is a perfect combination for bridging the worlds of corporate and crypto finance.
Global Startup Scene (Tallinn, Estonia)
Estonia is well known for being home to many of the most famous digital startups globally, such as Skype. Many international companies are choosing this country to establish their base of operations due to the digital-native friendly government, with most official government services from filing taxes to opening a company available fully online.
Especially during COVID-19, this makes Estonia a perfect place to consider for any new digital nomad business looking to establish their foundation. The Estonian e-residency program remains popular with digital natives and provides an excellent opportunity for new blockchain companies to thrive and grow.
Bitcoin City (Miami, Florida)
Florida may not come to mind when thinking of the world’s most crypto-friendly cities. But the local mayor Francis Suarez aims to change that.
“We want to be on the next wave of innovation,” he told DealBook. To make that happen, Mr. Suarez said he was “refashioning” the city’s “fun in the sun” image. Thanks in part to the mayor’s marketing efforts, tech and finance titans have flocked to Miami during the pandemic.
The cryptocurrency exchange FTX recently obtained naming rights for the city’s N.B.A. arena. And the Republican mayor suggested last year that Miami should pay municipal workers and accept tax payments in Bitcoin. Watch this space, as Miami looks set for investment from both government and private industry in making this city friendly for crypto and tech startup talent.