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Bitcoin as a Decentralized Digital Currency and Its Potential for Global Financial Inclusion

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Bitcoin is both the first the also the largest cryptocurrency in the market right now. Looking at some amazing features of the decentralized digital currency, it is obvious that Bitcoin has some potential we are yet to know about. One of them is Bitcoin’s decentralization benefits and its potential to bring financial services to millions of people who have been excluded from traditional banking systems.

Here, let’s consider what Bitcoin is. We will also see some of the features that could make it play a crucial role in promoting financial inclusion on a global scale. If this sounds like what you would like to read, then let’s get into it. 

Bitcoin; The Currency of the Future

Bitcoin is a decentralized digital currency. It works on a peer-to-peer network. The network is made up of users who validate and verify transactions, and the integrity of the system is maintained by cryptography, which ensures that transactions are secure and cannot be modified.

When there is a transaction, it is first broadcast to the entire network. There, it is verified and added to the blockchain. The transaction is then confirmed by multiple users. Once it has been validated, it becomes part of the permanent record of the Bitcoin network.

The role of cryptography in securing transactions is critical to the success of the Bitcoin network. By using complex algorithms, transactions are encrypted, and the network is able to ensure that no one can modify or reverse a transaction once it has been confirmed.

This makes Bitcoin a secure and transparent means of exchanging value. It also eliminates the need for trusted intermediaries, such as banks, to validate transactions.

Looking for the key elements that make Bitcoin unique and capable of revolutionizing the financial world? You will need to consider its decentralized nature.

 

What About Financial Inclusion?

Financial inclusion refers to an individual’s ability to access and use a range of financial services. This includes bank accounts, credit, and insurance. While these services are essential for economic growth and stability, many people around the world are excluded from the formal financial system. Most times, it’s due to poverty, geography, or lack of identification.

Financial exclusion is a major problem that affects millions of people around the world. There are presently more than 1.7 billion people around the globe without access to basic banking services. Therefore, such people are excluded from the formal financial system.

This lack of access to financial services can have serious consequences, such as limited economic opportunities, high costs for basic transactions, and vulnerability to financial exploitation.

Financial Inclusion Is Important Globally

The importance of financial inclusion cannot be overstated. Access to financial services enables individuals and businesses to grow, manage risk, and participate in the economy. Financial inclusion also provides governments with a valuable tool to promote economic growth and stability, and to tackle poverty and inequality.

However, traditional banking systems have limitations that can prevent financial inclusion. For example, many people live in remote or rural areas, where banks are not readily accessible. The cost of banking services can also be a barrier, especially for low-income individuals and businesses.

Additionally, strict identification requirements and other bureaucratic procedures can make it difficult for people to open bank accounts and access financial services.

 

Benefits of Using Bitcoin for Financial Inclusion

Here are just a few of the benefits that Bitcoin can offer:

#1: Accessibility

With an internet connection and a mobile device, anyone can access the Bitcoin network and start using financial services. This means that people who live in remote or underserved areas, who might not have access to traditional banking services, can still participate in the economy and access basic financial services.

#2: Low transaction fees

You can  buy bitcoin  with very low fees, this makes it an affordable option for people and businesses with limited financial resources.

#3: Cross-border transactions

Bitcoin makes cross-border transactions possible without the need for intermediaries. That way, it’s now possible to send and receive payments from anywhere in the world. This unique feature of Bitcoin can be a life saver for people who live in countries where access to financial services is limited.

#4: Censorship resistance

Bitcoin operates independently of government or financial institutions, which means that transactions cannot be censored or blocked by any one entity. That way, Bitcoin becomes an ideal option for people who live in countries with political or economic instability, or who face government restrictions on financial activities.

 

Limitations and Challenges of Bitcoin for Financial Inclusion

Despite its many benefits, Bitcoin still faces several limitations and challenges that must be addressed in order for it to play a more significant role in promoting financial inclusion. Some of these challenges include:

Volatility and price stability

Bitcoin is popular for its volatility. That means its value can fluctuate rapidly. This makes it difficult to use Bitcoin as a stable store of value. At the same time, it can limit its adoption and the potential to be used as a means of payment.

Lack of regulation

Because Bitcoin’s operations are not determines by any government or financial institutions, it is not subject to the same regulatory guidelines as traditional currencies. What this means is that, there could be a level of uncertainty with Bitcoin. And can also lead to an increase in the risk of fraud or other illegal activities concerning the currency.

Limited merchant adoption

While the number of merchants accepting Bitcoin keeps increasing, it is still a relatively small number compared to traditional payment methods. This can make it difficult for people to use Bitcoin to make everyday purchases, and can limit its adoption.

Limited public understanding

Bitcoin and decentralized digital currencies are still a new and complex concept for many people, and many people lack the knowledge and skills to use them effectively. That can be a barrier to adoption and can limit the potential of Bitcoin to promote financial inclusion.

 

Final Note

Lots of people around the world don’t have access to the traditional banking system. With Bitcoin’s unique features, it has the potential to bridge this gap. Hence, promoting financial inclusion on a global scale.

We have helped you see all of these in this article. And we believe you know why Bitcoin could be a useful resource to fix the bridge.

 

 

Kossi Adzo is the editor and author of Startup.info. He is software engineer. Innovation, Businesses and companies are his passion. He filled several patents in IT & Communication technologies. He manages the technical operations at Startup.info.

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