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Bitcoin gains 'bank' status
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Bitcoin, the popular virtual currency, has gained a bank-like status in France, which allows it to facilitate more transfers and issue debit cards.
5 POINTSApril 10, 2013 AT 3:31PM
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1
The online currency Bitcoin moved one step closer to the real world on Dec. 7 by becoming a registered payment services provider (PSP) in Europe. In doing so, it joins the ranks of other online payment services like PayPal and Worldpay.
Dec. 8, 2012, 2:58 a.m.
2
Through a deal with Credit Mutuel Bank and the investment firm Aqoba in France, Bitcoin-Central now has an international bank ID number, meaning it can send and receive transfers directly with other banks, as well as issue debit cards.
Dec. 8, 2012, 6:50 p.m.
3
"The more we see governments and banks being willing to deal with Bitcoin, the more comfortable a lot of organisations are going to be making the step forward themselves."
– Vitalik Buterin, editor of Bitcoin Magazine
Bitcoin is in widespread use, but has yet to gain full acceptance as an alternative to national currencies.
Dec. 8, 2012, 6 p.m.
4
Bitcoin, a digital currency made infamous for its use in underground websites like The Silk Road, has recently gained acceptance by mainstream websites. The currency can be swapped for U.S. dollars at exchange houses like Mt. Gox.
Feb. 18, 2013, 5:12 a.m.
5
"There's nothing wrong with people freely exchanging value, we don't hurt anybody, we're not forcing anyone to use Bitcoin, we simply want to see our dream and the future of money become a reality."
– Bitcoin staffer under the alias "davout"
Dec. 8, 2012, 6:03 p.m.
Citations
  1. 1. Virtual currency Bitcoin registers with European regulators
  2. 2. Bitcoins join global bank network
  3. 3. Mt.Gox - Bitcoin Exchange
  4. 4. FAQ - Bitcoin
  5. 5. Traveling Down the Silk Road to Buy Drugs With Bitcoins

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