Athena Bitcoin launches the first Bitcoin ATM in Buenos Aires, Argentina

Athena Bitcoin, a cryptocurrency firm launched in Brazil in 2014 has opened the first Bitcoin ATM in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

Bitcoin ATM’s are gaining quick adoption across the world as more countries switch to a friendly stance on blockchain technology and its associated cryptocurrencies. Athena Bitcoin ATMs will allow users to purchase a number of digital currencies on the platform in a quick and efficient way.

To buy Bitcoins on the ATMs, users will need a passport or an ID, a telephone number and email for the transaction to be settled. The ATM will allow a minimum purchase of AR$ 100 (~$2.75 USD) of Bitcoin with other virtual currencies to be added soon. Once the user registers using their phone or email, they will be able to purchase digital currencies on the ATMs and receive in turn a paper wallet with the amount of Bitcoins bought. The process is quite easy just as one would charge a public transport card or re-charge your telephone.

Athena Bitcoin will focus on the selling of Bitcoins before venturing into other digital currencies with the success of BTC, the most prominent coin the factor to determine addition according to reports from the company.

Athena Bitcoin To Expand Number Of ATMs In South America

As seen on the map below, South America is one of the most progressive regions in adopting cryptocurrencies for daily use. The map shows areas in the world with crypto paying stations including cafes, groceries, nightlife clubs and shopping areas etc.

The increasing number of crypto stations in South America is dependent on the failing economy of Venezuela and increase in positive sentiments from South American governments and regulators in the recent past.

Map showing crypto stations around the world (Screenshot from Coinmap.org)

Speaking on the possibility of Athena Bitcoin venturing further to other South American countries, Santiago Molins, Head of IT and Innovation at the company, said the ATMs will be spread across other cities in Argentina while Colombia is set to be the next company to receive Athena Bitcoin ATMs.

He however was not able to disclose the exact ATM locations to be opened as they are working on settling the contracts but assured the enthusiasts of crypto that a number of ATMs will open up across South America between September and October.

Athena Bitcoin plans to start major operations in Argentina and Colombia as they focus on identifying new business opportunities in the two countries as Matías Goldenhorn, in charge of expanding in the region confirmed.

“During the rest of 2018, we will continue to settle our experience in Argentina and Colombia. We are also identifying new opportunities in other countries in the region which we will evaluate to expand the next year.”

The success of the operations of the ATMs in the two countries will see the company turn towards rest of South America and Latin American countries.

Argentina sees its first Bitcoin ATM launch in Buenos Aires well appreciated by the locals. This ranks it the 3756^th ATM to be launched across 74 countries in the world. North America is currently the leading region in the world in number of Bitcoin ATMs with the United States (US) contributing 2249 machines and Canada follows with 657 ATM machines.