Luzius Meisser, founder of Bitcoin Suisse and a prominent figure in the Swiss cryptocurrency sector, has called on the Swiss National Bank (SNB) to diversify its reserves by investing a portion in Bitcoin.
In a speech to the SNB’s annual general meeting in Bern on Friday, Meisser argued that holding Bitcoin could protect the central bank’s nearly CHF 1 trillion ($1.09 trillion) reserves from political influence and inflationary pressures.
Key Takeaways
- Call to Diversify Reserves: Luzius Meisser called on the Swiss National Bank to invest 1-2% of its nearly CHF 1 trillion in reserves in Bitcoin to hedge against inflation and political risks.
- Referendum Campaign: Crypto advocates launched a movement to amend the Swiss constitution to require Bitcoin to be held alongside gold in the SNB’s reserves.
- Swiss crypto adoption: 11% of Swiss citizens have invested in crypto assets, underscoring Switzerland’s leadership in blockchain technology.
- SNB’s cautious stance: SNB President Thomas Jordan cited “very high volatility” and “questionable liquidity in crises” as the main reasons for skepticism toward cryptocurrencies.
The crypto community’s opinion on the SNB’s policy
Citing the global economic instability, exacerbated by US tariffs and the gradual weakening of leading currencies such as the dollar and the euro, Meisser emphasized Bitcoin’s resilience. “Politicians eventually succumb to the temptation to print money to finance their plans, but Bitcoin is a currency that cannot be inflated by deficit spending,” he said.
In response to these economic changes, cryptocurrency advocates have launched a referendum campaign aimed at amending the Swiss Constitution and requiring the SNB to hold Bitcoin alongside gold in its reserves—a move they believe would further secure Switzerland’s financial independence.
Bitcoin’s Growing Stability and Switzerland’s Crypto Leadership
With a market capitalization of nearly $2 trillion and billions of dollars in daily liquidity, Bitcoin has become the most liquid and stable digital asset in the world. Meisser suggested that the SNB could invest as little as 1-2% of its reserves in Bitcoin without taking significant risk. “We’re not saying we should invest in Bitcoin, but when you have almost 1 trillion Swiss francs in reserves, it makes sense to invest 1-2% in an asset that is increasing in value, becoming increasingly safe, and that everyone wants to own,” Meisser said.
Many central banks are considering creating Bitcoin reserves, especially amid the new crypto market rally. At the time of writing, the BTC price reached $94,823, representing a 2.4% increase in one day and 12.1% in one week.
Switzerland, already a pioneer in blockchain innovation, continues to cultivate its reputation as “Crypto Valley,” particularly with the founding of Ethereum in Zug. A study by the Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts reports that 11% of the Swiss population has invested in crypto assets.
Despite the momentum, the SNB leadership remains cautious. Swiss National Bank President Thomas Jordan reiterated the institution’s concerns, stating that cryptocurrencies exhibit “very high volatility” and that “liquidity in crisis situations is questionable,” which is why the central bank has so far refrained from adding Bitcoin to its reserves.
Impact on the Industry
The outcome of Meisser’s proposal, combined with the growing public support expressed through the referendum, could significantly impact Switzerland’s monetary policy. Observers will be closely watching to see whether the SNB will change its reserve strategy in light of the general global trend toward digital assets.
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