In the picturesque Canton of Ticino, Lugano has transformed itself from a charming Swiss-Italian lakeside city into a burgeoning hub for cryptocurrency and blockchain innovation. Over the past decade, Lugano has embraced digital assets and blockchain technology with a strategic and forward-thinking approach, positioning itself as a leading city in Europe’s crypto landscape. This article explores Lugano's journey to becoming a crypto-friendly city, its implementation of the LVGA strategy, and its aspirations for the future.

The Rise of Lugano as a Crypto Hub

Lugano’s crypto journey began with its recognition of the potential of blockchain and digital assets to drive economic growth, foster innovation, and enhance its global reputation. Switzerland has long been a proponent of blockchain technology, with the country often referred to as "Crypto Valley" due to its blockchain-friendly policies and infrastructure, especially in the canton of Zug. Lugano, inspired by this success, sought to replicate and localize these efforts in Ticino, probably achieving even more results, considering that the mayor of Lugano, already in office for some time, is a great supporter

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The city’s commitment to cryptocurrency became evident when it announced partnerships with key blockchain organizations and hosted numerous conferences (like Plan B) to promote dialogue and innovation in the sector. Lugano’s open-minded regulatory stance and proactive engagement with blockchain technology attracted startups, investors, and developers from around the globe.

The LVGA Strategy

A significant milestone in Lugano’s crypto journey was the introduction of the LVGA (like a local digital currency) initiative. The strategy is centered around three core pillars:

1. Adoption of Cryptocurrencies for Everyday Use: Lugano became one of the first cities to allow the use of cryptocurrencies for public services and taxes. Bitcoin (BTC), Tether (USDT), and LVGA token—the city's own cryptocurrency—can now be used for a variety of transactions, including paying for parking, public transportation, and municipal services. On the website of the municipality of Lugano there are all the services and activities that have joined the program
2. Creation of an Economic Ecosystem: The city incentivized businesses to accept cryptocurrencies, providing technical support and subsidies to merchants. This move aimed to create a self-sustaining crypto economy within Lugano, ensuring that digital assets were not just speculative investments but practical tools for everyday commerce.
3. Education and Innovation: Lugano has invested in blockchain education and research, partnering with local universities and creating the Ticino Blockchain Technologies Association. These efforts aim to train a new generation of blockchain professionals while fostering innovation in the sector.

A Vision for the Future

Lugano’s ambitions go far beyond merely integrating cryptocurrency into its local economy. The city envisions becoming a global leader in blockchain technology and digital finance. Here are some of its future goals:

• Attracting Global Investments: Lugano plans to establish itself as a magnet for crypto entrepreneurs, offering regulatory clarity, a supportive ecosystem, and a high quality of life. This includes hosting international conferences and incubating blockchain startups.
• Enhancing Infrastructure: The city is continuously improving its technological infrastructure, including launching initiatives to integrate blockchain into public services such as property registration, identity verification, and supply chain transparency.
• Sustainability through Blockchain: Lugano is exploring ways to leverage blockchain technology for sustainability initiatives, such as energy management and waste reduction, aligning its crypto ambitions with broader environmental goals.
• Strengthening Community Involvement: The city aims to empower its residents through education and participation in blockchain projects, ensuring that the benefits of its digital economy are felt by all.

Lugano at the top

While Rome prepares a tax sting on cryptocurrencies in the 2025 budget bill for capital gains and other proceeds from blockchain operations in Lugano, mayor Michele Foletti, who has contributed in recent years to transforming the city into a real Monte Carlo, sent the Italians to follow their example, furthermore having an indigenous digital currency like LGVA which is perfectly equivalent to the Swiss franc, has transformed many projects and events for the city into an economic opportunity for everyone, considering that if you use it there is a 10% cash-back and if for example you run a marathon you can also "earn" it. In short, the best resource for the future and which Lugano has a clear key to, is the diversification of payments, therefore freedom, the important thing is to have more and more options

Sara

Born in Italy in 1976. Industrial computer technician and Political Science graduate. Web & Web 3.0 skilled. Involved in major Autonomous Organizations Decentralized. Real Estate Expert - Extrajudical civil mediator. Negotiator