Belo Horizonte Declared ‘Capital of Bitcoin’ by City Council

Belo Horizonte City Council approved a bill on May 9, 2025, to declare the city as the ‘Capital of Bitcoin.’ The decision passed with 20 votes in favor and 8 against, with 6 abstentions.

Belo Horizonte’s move emphasizes the adoption of Bitcoin to stimulate local innovation and commerce, pending further governmental approval and financial specifics.

Belo Horizonte City Council’s decision marks a significant step for cryptocurrency in Brazil, as the city aims to encourage Bitcoin usage by local businesses. Details of financial incentives remain undisclosed.

Analysts might expect Bitcoin adoption in Belo Horizonte to influence similar initiatives elsewhere.

The council vote of 20–8, with some abstentions, highlights initial support. The new bill envisions financial incentives for Bitcoin as a commercial payment option, pending the mayor’s endorsement.

Immediate effects include potential changes in local commerce, with businesses encouraged to accept Bitcoin. Broader market responses and concrete financial commitments remain unspecified.

No new regulatory actions from Brazilian federal institutions have been publicized. Public statements from both the local and global cryptocurrency community are absent at present.

Analysts might expect Bitcoin adoption in Belo Horizonte to influence similar initiatives elsewhere. The city’s decision aligns with previous international Bitcoin policies like El Salvador’s, potentially impacting fintech and payment sectors.