El Salvador's much-awaited Bitcoin bonds, dubbed "Volcano Bonds," have reportedly received regulatory approval for a scheduled launch in early 2024.
As per a statement from the National Bitcoin Office (ONBTC) on December 11, the Volcano Bond, sanctioned by El Salvador's Digital Assets Commission, is expected to debut during the first quarter of 2024.
Nayib Bukele, the country's pro-Bitcoin leader, seemingly affirmed the news with his own post captioned "Wen volcano bond." He also shared multiple posts underscoring the issuance of the bonds in Q1 2024.
The prospect of issuing Volcano Bonds arose in November 2021, marking the beginning of a significant financial development for the country.
In a historic move on January 11, El Salvador passed legislation establishing the legal framework for Bitcoin-backed bonds. The purpose of these Volcano Bonds is twofold: to alleviate sovereign debt and finance the construction of the envisioned "Bitcoin City."
According to the ONBTC, the bonds are slated for issuance on the Bitfinex Securities Platform. This platform, registered in El Salvador, specializes in trading blockchain-based equities and bonds, providing the infrastructure for this innovative financial endeavor.
This marks the initiation of Bitcoin-centric capital markets within the country, introducing bonds that will have a decade-long tenure and offer a 6.5% annual return to investors.
In a recent development, El Salvador unveiled a substantial 241-megawatt Bitcoin mining endeavor valued at $1 billion. This project, formed through collaboration with Luxor Technology, will harness the nation's volcanic resources, primarily leveraging the power of the Conchagua volcano for its mining operations.
The approval arrives approximately 21 months after the country's former finance minister, Alejandro Zelaya, initially projected the launch of the Volcano Bond for mid-March 2022.
El Salvador's legislation established a framework for Bitcoin-backed bonds. Other countries exploring similar initiatives might learn from their approach in creating a legal structure to support crypto-based financial instruments.
The utilization of blockchain-based platforms like Bitfinex for bond issuance showcases the integration of technology into traditional finance. Regulators might observe this integration as a potential avenue for innovation within their own financial systems.
The purpose of the Volcano Bonds, aiming to address sovereign debt and fund infrastructure projects like "Bitcoin City," highlights alternative financing models. Regulators could study these approaches to explore new avenues for funding public projects.
El Salvador's mining project utilizing volcanic resources signifies innovation in energy sources for cryptocurrency mining. Other nations might consider similar ventures to tap into sustainable energy for crypto operations.
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