Despite losing one of their most noteworthy speakers in the departure of El Salvadorian President Nayib Bukele, Bitcoin Magazine’s largest event of the year has compensated with a star-studded lineup of speakers and panels that have been able to set the tone on the makeup of the types of influential figures that have thoughts on digital assets.
David Bailey, CEO of BTC Inc welcomed old and new faces alike to kick off the event, making mention of what he perceived as some of the newest groups of attendees at the conference. In his opening remarks, Bailey gave personal welcomes to the IRS, DOJ, and Department of Homeland security.
“Welcome to the biggest financial freedom conference in the world,” Bailey told the crowd.
Companies making note in the opening days of the event were Cashapp, who announced they want to “redefine” consumer relationships with Bitcoin. Their Crypto Product Lead Miles Suter spoke to attendees about how access to digital assets can help individuals who are facing existential, political, or regional crisis achieve personal and financial freedom.
“I’ve always dreamed of Bitcoin taking off with those that need it the most,” said Suter. “Those that have traditionally been left out, who have to flee war, or authoritarian states, or suffer from raging inflation.”
I saw the power that Bitcoin was having on local communities,” he continued. “I also got to observe the challenges that come with introducing bitcoin to a country where 70% is unbanked.”
Michael Saylor, the tech phenomenon who has made a name for himself among Bitcoin connoisseurs was said to draw approximately 40,000 people to hear him speak. He told the crowd that people were “dancing on my grave” when Bitcoin fell from its highest point. He even told the crowd that there was a point in time he thought he would be removed from his company.
Other speakers at the event include professional athletes Serena Williams, Odell Beckham Jr, and Strike CEO Jack Mallers. Robinhood has an announcement planned for Thursday afternoon announcement prior to a keynote speech by Peter Thiel.
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