Germany's FDP Embraces Bitcoin and Crypto Ahead of Elections

Germany's Free Democratic Party (FDP) is ramping up its focus on Bitcoin and crypto policy as the country gears up for parliamentary elections in February. The party's recent election manifesto, released on December 18, highlights a shift towards integrating digital assets like Bitcoin into the financial system. The FDP emphasizes modernizing financial market oversight while maintaining fair regulatory standards. They aim to expand BaFin's role to support FinTech and crypto innovations and align German crypto regulations with European standards. The party is open to the idea of ECB and Bundesbank holding Bitcoin reserves to strengthen the monetary system. Additionally, they advocate for a digital euro that respects user privacy and the continued use of cash. FDP leader Christian Lindner has urged Germany to embrace innovations like Bitcoin. The proposal has garnered support from European tech figures like Frank Thelen. BTC is currently trading at $102,388.