As a researcher with a keen interest in global economics and political transitions, I find myself deeply moved by María Corina Machado’s vision for Venezuela. Having closely followed the tumultuous economic journey of this once oil-rich nation, I can only admire her resilience and innovative spirit.


María Corina Machado, a prominent figure within Venezuela’s opposition movement, has put forth a proposal for the adoption of Bitcoin (BTC) as a component of the country’s national reserves.

On Thursday, during an interview with Alex Gladstein from the Human Rights Foundation, she described cryptocurrency as a crucial lifeline and essential tool for resistance, in response to the nation’s economic downturn.

Bitcoin as a National Reserve Asset

Her proposal seeks to address Venezuela’s inflation and financial instability, which she attributes to years of mismanagement by the governments of Hugo Chávez and Nicolás Maduro.

Machado’s proposal is quite similar to a recent idea put forth by ex-US President Donald Trump, who too supported the concept of a US Bitcoin reserve.

In simple terms, the 56-year-old highlighted that digital currencies like cryptocurrency might significantly contribute to the nation’s revival. This isn’t just because they can help avoid hyperinflation, but also because they could serve as a protective measure for preserving wealth while the country recovers from decades of economic ruin.

She criticized the financial policies of both Chávez and Maduro, “This financial repression, rooted in state-sponsored looting, theft, and unchecked money printing, crippled our economy despite our oil wealth,” she said.

The politician noted that numerous residents are utilizing Bitcoin as a safeguard against their nation’s unstable currency and government-imposed exchange rates. She explained that this digital currency provides a way for citizens to secure their assets and, on occasion, fund their departures from the country.

She remarked that Bitcoin allows transactions to circumvent government-set exchange rates, benefiting many individuals. Initially viewed as a humanitarian instrument, it has transformed into a crucial tool for defiance.

As a crypto investor, I personally believe that adopting cryptocurrency as a domestic reserve asset could potentially aid my home country in South America in two significant ways: firstly, by helping us recover our stolen wealth, and secondly, by providing much-needed support to our poorest citizens.

She stated that we see Bitcoin as a component in our country’s reserves, assisting us in recovering what was taken by the dictatorship.

Rebuilding a New Venezuela

Additionally, Machado emphasized the people’s unwavering determination to reinstate democracy, recognizing their persistent struggles against the ruling authority over time.

In simpler terms, she highlighted the role of technology, specifically Bitcoin, as a means to achieve financial self-reliance and help rebuild a free nation. She underscored that donations and assets in Bitcoin would be immune to government confiscation, making it an essential element in her plan for transitioning peacefully from dictatorship.

Previously, a member of Venezuela’s National Assembly highlighted that the value of their national currency has experienced a significant decrease, with inflation skyrocketing to an astonishing 1.7 million percent. This high inflation rate has led to prices of essential goods nearly doubling approximately every other day. The escalating inflation, which has surpassed 8 million percent since 2016, has caused millions to seek out more stable conditions in other countries.

As she looks ahead, she imagines Bitcoin occupying a pivotal position in her country’s revival, promoting transparency, upholding property rights, and fostering economic liberty.

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2024-09-07 01:30