The “Crypto Nation” Switzerland 2018

Abstract

This evaluation case study analyzes developments related to crypto assets and the underlying crypto technology in the case of Switzerland. The canton of Zug was the first public institution worldwide to accept the cryptocur-rency Bitcoin as an official means of payment in 2016. Since then the Zug region has developed into "Crypto Valley" by attracting around 350 blockchain companies and the foundation behind the cryptocurrency Ethereum. However, in 2018 the value of Bitcoin sharply dropped. Moreover, numerous cases of cyber thefts have been reported worldwide recently. In this context, is the idea for Switzerland to focus on the crypto industry providing an opportunity for the country to claim its leading position in innovation and technology? Or would this be rather a risk for the country and its financial sector? The students are asked to undertake an evaluation based on a SWOT analysis and the Porter Diamond Model.