Introducing Atm Alliance Academy: The Perfect Solution for Starting Your Own ATM Business

Are you looking for a new business opportunity that offers the potential for significant returns on your investment? If so, starting your own ATM business could be just what you need. With the increasing demand for convenient and accessible banking services, the ATM industry is experiencing unprecedented growth, making it a lucrative business opportunity for savvy entrepreneurs.

But starting an ATM business from scratch can be a daunting task. That’s where Atm Alliance Academy comes in. Atm Alliance Academy is a turnkey ATM business program that provides everything you need to start your own ATM business quickly and easily.

How Does Atm Alliance Academy Work?

When you sign up for the Atm Alliance Academy program, you receive everything you need to get your ATM business up and running. This includes

The program also covers the installation of the ATM, location acquisition assistance (guaranteed to find a location within 60 days), access to a digital course outline covering the entire process of starting an ATM business, and branding for your new ATM business.

But Atm Alliance Academy Doesn’t Stop There

They go above and beyond to build an ATM business with their customers. They guarantee to secure a location for your ATM and ensure that the location will perform or they will replace it at no additional charge. This means you can start your own ATM business with complete peace of mind, knowing that Atm Alliance Academy is there to support you every step of the way.

Build Your ATM Business with Atm Alliance Academy Today

As the fulfillment partner for Atm Alliance Academy, atmmachines.com is thrilled to partner with Atm Alliance Academy to provide top-quality ATM equipment and processing services to their customers. We aim to ensure that Atm Alliance Academy customers receive the best possible service and support.

So, if you’re looking for a new business opportunity, starting your own ATM business with Atm Alliance Academy could be the perfect solution. You’ll have everything you need to create a successful ATM business, with the added assurance that Atm Alliance Academy will support you every step of the way.

To learn more about Atm Alliance Academy and how you can get started with your own turnkey ATM business, contact them today!

 

Online Real-Time ATM Monitoring Made Easy with AtmMachines.com

Automatic Teller Machines (ATMs) are a primary customer touchpoint. People still need cash, and for many business owners, the ATM remains a vital resource for increasing foot traffic and overall customer spending. As kiosks evolve with digital advancements, the standard ATM has become a personalized service opportunity.

But digital function and improved design also introduce complexity. New problems such as network communication errors or bad card readers can lead to service disruptions, customer dissatisfaction, and profit loss. In addition, ATM owners must monitor their routes to prevent kiosk issues and unavoidable downtimes.

Let’s examine all there is to know about real-time ATM monitoring to help you decide if your ATM business can benefit from the service.

Online Real-Time ATM Monitoring –What It Is and Why It’s Needed

Online real-time ATM monitoring helps ATM owners collect health, cash, and consumable status message updates from all their ATMs. The digital service uses ATM management information system (MIS) software to capture data according to your set preferences and provides real-time updates on all your network-connected ATMs.

For example, if an error event (such as time-outs, faulty dispensers, receipt malfunctions, signal connection downtimes, etc.) occurs within your ATM, you receive an instant alert message. You can trigger notifications for any unexpected ATM problem and have them sent directly to your email or phone. As a result, you can take immediate action, helping improve your problem resolution times. Instant high-level tracking is a helpful tool for limiting service disruptions.

Real-time monitoring also provides updates related to cash supply status warnings, routing the alert to the responsible support personnel for preventative action. If you need more cash, the service will send a request to your cash management service provider to refill your vault cash long before you run out. In addition to error tracking, monitoring systems help automate kiosk services.

Lastly, real-time monitoring provides optimization possibilities. Collected data is cleaned and combined into actionable insights that can help you streamline the performance of your ATM fleet. Machine learning inputs predictive information into easy-to-read dashboards, letting you be proactive towards possible machine upgrades. Get a detailed look at your kiosk performance and discover new ways to improve the customer experience.

What Is an ATM Management Information System?

An ATM management information system is the software that facilitates a customer bank transaction. Anyone who inserts a bank-supplied card into an ATM to deposit or withdraw cash communicates with the ATM management information system. It is how digital transfers between financial institutions and your ATM occur.

Real-time monitoring solutions integrate with ATM management information systems to collect data. You hold a wealth of consumer behavior inputs within your system, especially if you have a fleet of kiosks. Millions of customer transactions contain information that can help you improve ATM performance. Ideally, you can use those insights to offer better services and increase revenues.

The issues with ATM management information systems also compound as you scale. For business owners with multiple ATMs, keeping track of the numerous transactions routed through the information system is time-consuming. Complexity once again makes control difficult. With the support of a real-time monitoring solution, your range of vision increases according to business expansion.

What Are the Top Benefits of ATM Monitoring Software?

Since ATM Monitoring software gives you end-to-end visibility of your entire ATM fleet and any connected systems, you can achieve several key benefits.

Fraud prevention

Of great importance, a monitoring solution can help flag and detect possible instances of fraud. It is a layer of protection against possible threats, operating 24/7. The system will alert you of potential financial crimes such as cash-outs, malware infections, and transaction reversals. Take immediate action to block suspicious activity, helping protect your asset and maintain a sterling reputation of safety.

Global monitoring

Control your ATM systems from anywhere in the world. View daily, monthly, and yearly reports for transactions and service benchmarks for any of your kiosks. All incident reports and collected data are easy to view through a simple online platform. Such transaction intelligence allows you to understand where and how consumers interact to ensure complete physical and digital security of all kiosks. Plus, management security solutions can track failed or unsecured transactions and report on how the disruption impacted customer retention metrics or brand reputation.

Service performance improvements

Use data to improve the efficiency of your entire ATM network. For example, terminal status updates can give you an overview of your kiosk networks, allowing you to locate areas that could benefit from change management.

Proper vault cash management is key to the success of your ATM business; use cash forecasting to help streamline cash vault supply with timed refill services and armored truck dispatches. With the right information, you can make improvements that boost the performance of your kiosk. Service upgrades create a positive consumer experience that will drive revenue increases.

Merchant side support

Real-time monitoring also offers several back-end support. Take advantage of accounting tools and merchant payout modules that showcase earned revenues and service fees from customer transactions. All reporting can customize according to your merchant needs, and even automated adjustments can be set up between bank accounts according to your business requirements.

ATM Processing and Online Real-Time Monitoring With AtmMachines.com

To help you leverage the benefits of online real-time ATM monitoring, partner with AtmMachines.com, LLC. In addition to our processing services, you gain access to online real-time ATM monitoring through Columbus Data Services (CDS).

CDS is a webtools product with a robust web-based ATM management information system. The application provides ATM monitoring from anywhere in the world, all at no additional cost. Log in from any internet-enabled device (or the mobile app) to view real-time status updates for greater visibility and peace of mind.

Plus, you will find daily, monthly and yearly reports compiled from collected data on ATM transactions. Sift through actionable insights to spot trends, or use supply information to control cash vault schedules. It is a service that reduces your risk while automating most performance management aspects related to your kiosks.

Enjoy Peace of Mind with AtmMachines.com

The profits of your ATM are directly related to its availability. The percentage of time your ATM can dispense cash is crucial to maintaining high usage — and by extension, earning higher profits. With the renewed emphasis placed on consumer experience, an ATM must offer reliable service.

To mitigate service disruptions, use real-time monitoring with AtmMachines.com, LLC to track and manage your ATM fleet. Earn high availability, better security, global tracking, and performance improvements with our monitoring solutions. If you want to simplify your ATM business or need support with scaling your fleet, AtmMachines would be happy to partner with you.

Contact us today to request a consultation to find out how we can simplify your ATM vault cash management and machine processing while offering 24/7 real-time ATM monitoring.

How Safe is Bitcoin Really?

Bitcoin is a revolutionary new technology. The digital currency has become highly popular and continues to disrupt standard financial systems (to the surprise of many). While early adopters and businesses integrated digital tokens, the overall market value of Bitcoin skyrocketed by a trillion dollars. Even enterprise corporations such as Amazon, Starbucks, and Burger King accept consumer payments via cryptocurrencies. It is an exciting new financial vehicle.

But with any new technology, questions about safety and security arise. As a Bitcoin ATM operator, your customers and partners will likely have questions regarding the authenticity of the entire operation. We already pointed out just how safe a Bitcoin ATM is, but what about the underlying asset, Bitcoin itself?

Let’s look into some of the common security concerns related to digital currencies and explain what makes Bitcoin safer than some of today’s financial systems.

The Bitcoin Icon symbol, illustrated to look like a minted gold coin.

Common Security Concerns for Bitcoin

Like any financial system, asset, or technology, Bitcoin is not immune to drawbacks, errors, or weak points that fraudsters can exploit. Whilst Bitcoin is established in its security record, most cryptocurrencies are in their infancy, so while developers and community members continue to address security concerns, there are still a few key safety issues you should remain aware of:

1. Fraud

With the introduction of Bitcoin, bad actors simply moved their existing fraud strategies into crypto. Common social engineering schemes such as phishing work just as well with digital tokens, even if they are currently minimal in scope (crypto scams only account for 4.7% of the total fraud, according to the Better Business Bureau).

But fraud losses in cryptocurrency reached a massive $14 billion in 2021. Scams occur less often, but the average value is far higher with cryptocurrencies, especially non-Bitcoin cryptocurrencies (known as alt-coins). These scams only apply to protocols outside the Bitcoin network, but you should be aware of them:

  • Coin offerings: Since crypto is unregulated, anyone can create a coin of their own and trade it for profit. After the initial offering, the creators can shut down and run off with the investors’ money (there is no stable asset or insurance entity to recoup losses). False Independent Coin Offerings (ICOs) are common scams.
  • Rug pulls: Rug pulls are similar to coin offerings, but focus on the entire protocol itself. Developers realized that they could use Bitcoin for more than just a money supply and started to build Decentralized Finance (DeFi) communities that vote on and decide the direction of a particular token. While most DeFi outfits operate honestly, some fraudsters “pull the rug” from under the investor community, leaving with all the collected money.
  • Pump and dumps: While less intentional than rug pulls, owners with high stakes in cryptocurrencies will engage in viral marketing tactics that pump up a cryptocurrency. Once the token reaches artificially propped up values, the bad actors pull out their money and tank the token values.

Efforts are underway to limit the damage of such crypto-specific scams, but it is a good idea for users to understand the risks involved with cryptocurrencies.

2. Hacking

While the crypto network is safe from hacking, the individual digital wallets you might use to hold a cryptocurrency remain vulnerable. Private keys that store digital assets online are a current weak point, and since it is a decentralized system (i.e., not governed or regulated by one central authority), there is no way to recover tokens lost when in your possession. Hackers often focus on digital wallets that hold large sums of tokens.

Luckily, several secure digital wallets exist – both hosted (e.g., on an exchange) and self-hosted (where you manage your own private keys). Many owners also store their coins offline, immune from hackers. Large cryptocurrency exchanges continue to improve their cybersecurity to better protect their customer’s funds.

Why Do We Trust Banks With Our Money?

We trust our financial systems because of the high levels of authenticity. Governments and institutions have built a complex regulatory body that protects against fraud, maintains currency supply, and upholds price stability. The following regulatory bodies each help verify and control all monetary transactions:

  • Customer Identification Programs (CIPs): Under the USA patriot act, businesses must comply with CIP requirements to help limit money laundering and other illegal activities. Know Your Customer Compliance (KYC) is a standard identification program. CIPs also fit into the Bank Secrecy Act (BSA), which includes compliance with Anti-Money Laundering (AML) programs and suspicious activity reporting.
  • The Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN): A branch of the state treasury, FinCEN enforces all BSA regulations and examines financial institutions for compliance, helping ensure the safety of the entire banking system.
  • Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC): The FDIC offers the necessary liquidity for deposit insurance. All citizens and businesses of America are protected from undue losses in the event of a bank failure.
  • Federal Reserve: The Federal Reserve System makes macroeconomic decisions that help maintain the security of the US dollar and the American economy.

In summary, a centralized authority ensures the safety and price stability of the fiat currency system. The value and strength of the dollar are insured through monetary policy (central interest rates, minting new money, purchases of commodities, etc.). For consumers, such overt control makes fiat currencies a safe bet.

But there are problems. The American dollar has lost a significant portion of its value (a dollar in 1913 is worth $26 in 2020). The legacy banking system is also vulnerable to the same risks: scams, fraudsters, and crashing markets. The administrative costs to protect our system continue to hamper our economy’s strength.

Financial policy is ready for the innovation that cryptocurrencies provide.

What Makes Bitcoin Safe?

Bitcoin offers a new level of safety due to its underlying technology; many consider it better protected than most current financial systems. Even without a central authority, the Bitcoin security protocol is so strong that it would take insurmountable compute resources to crack private keys. Let’s look into the innovative nature of Bitcoin and what makes it safe.

1. Blockchain technology

Bitcoin uses a distributed ledger technology known as the blockchain. All transactions are submitted to a public pre-approval list, known as a mempool – once the transaction is deemed valid, a new block is added to the chain and the transaction becomes part of the public ledger. You cannot edit or reverse confirmed ledger information, meaning you can maintain a clear ownership history.

Bitcoin uses cryptography for enhanced security and to ensure the legitimacy of its blockchain. It generates an immutable transaction record that is guaranteed and protected by immense computing power, which authenticates each transaction in a block and prevents any double-spend. Any fraudulent attempt to spend money in a wallet not controlled by the attacker key gets thrown out by the network nodes.

Since no one can change or edit the cryptographically verified blockchain, it is easy to confirm the legitimacy of a transaction – a technology that is remarkably resistant to fraud.

2. Decentralization

Having a clear record of events also removes the need for a single judge (aka, a bank) to make decisions. Crypto developers want to avoid creating system weak points that could fall victim to attacks, hacking, bribery, etc. So, the verification of any cryptographic key spreads across the network of users who hold the specific digital token.

With decentralized blockchain technology, there is no single point of failure. It relies on consensus from the entire network through a public and open display. It is a case of safety in numbers, and the blockchain is highly transparent. If one part breaks down or falls victim to an attack, another server can jump in and maintain security.

3. Technical security

With the blockchain requiring extensive mathematical proofs solved across a massive network, a hacker would need over 50% of the network’s computing power to make any false changes to the blockchain (known as a 51% attack).

For one person to harness that much computing power is improbable – once again giving Bitcoin a level of security and corruption immunity unmatched matched in fiat systems, and competing cryptocurrencies (alt coins). It is a disruptive way of approaching digital transactions that could change almost every facet of global finance.

Bitcoin is as Secure as Its Technology

In short, while Bitcoin may feel new and risky, many would argue that it is far more secure than fiat currencies. Both crypto and fiat financial systems have benefits and drawbacks, but you can happily inform your customers that Bitcoin relies on some of the safest technology. As digital tokens continue to integrate into the economy and as regulation increases, it will only become safer. Bitcoin will likely become the base layer of the modern financial system, in a similar way that TCP/IP powers the internet we all know and trust today.

Want more information? Read about our Bitcoin ATM Placement and Ownership programs or contact AtmMachines.com, LLC today to chat with us in person about our turnkey Bitcoin ATM solutions.

A Beginner’s Guide to Vault Cash Management

An ATM is a profitable business venture. With earnings that average $3.08 per transaction, you can break even and gain a complete return on investment within 12-18 months. A well-placed ATM kiosk represents a viable passive income source for investors, store owners, and entrepreneurs.

But ATM ownership also involves some upfront work. From achieving compliance to setting up payment processing and maintenance schedules, there are existing overhead costs and preparation tasks you must tackle before you can generate revenue.

In an earlier blog, we outlined a few necessary steps regarding deal structures, paperwork, and setting a fee split with any business partners. This blog will focus on another crucial aspect of owning an ATM: cash vault management.

Read on to learn more about cash vault services, why you need to plan out your cash schedules, and the easiest ways to optimize your ATM cash processing operations.

What Is Vault Cash?

Vault cash is stored money used as a safety reserve for business operations. Since every ATM accepts and transfers large quantities of money, owners need to keep liquid reserves on-premise to handle the kiosks’ day-to-day supply.

Customers engage in many cash-based services through your ATM (withdrawals, money transfers, and bill payments) – without enough cash on hand, you might not be able to fulfill a customer request.

While partial ATMs do exist, most machines have attached vaults where you can store your cash float. In technical terms, “cash loading” refers to the act of filling your ATM Vault, while the money stored in the vault for safekeeping is considered “vault cash.”

Proper vault cash management is key to the success of your ATM. Numerous customer transactions deplete your supply, and without a safe and efficient way to source, deliver, and refill your vault, you could run into service disruptions or take on undue security risk, both of which hurt your profits.

Vault Cash Management and Customer Transactions

Let’s walk through typical customer transactions so you can better understand the necessity of vault cash.

  1. A customer will verify their details and use your ATM to withdraw cash. The machine then completes the request through a processor, a central ATM host that communicates with the customer’s bank and starts the electronic fund transfer (EFT). Once the host receives the money from the client’s bank, it approves the cash request at the kiosk, and the customer walks away with cash in hand.
  2. As the ATM owner, your vault cash supply decreased, so you will receive from the ATM host the electronic transfer amount taken from the customer. The funds will be transferred via ACH to your chequing account (plus any convenience fees) with a next-day turnaround. From there, it is your responsibility to refill the cash vault from your bank account and “settle” the transaction.

An ideal setup would involve two checking accounts: one for operating capital and vault cash and one for your surcharge fees. Surcharge fees are direct earnings, so it is best not to mix profits with your cash float. Plus, you might need to split fees between business partners or other accounts – it is best not to confuse withdrawals from your cash vault account with surcharge profits and business expenses.

How Much Vault Cash Does an ATM Need?

You need enough vault cash to manage the average demand of your ATM. Without enough supply, you can hurt your revenues and increase expenses.

For example, a reputation of extended service outages will deter customers and potentially lose their lifetime sales value. Multiple small trips to replenish the vault add to operational expenses that can hurt your return on investment and break-even timeline. They also extend your security risk, especially if you don’t have protected cash transfers.

Maintaining a proper cash vault balance is known as cash replenishment planning, and you need to set a schedule if you hope to scale your ATM route. Different ATMs require cash loads on different timetables dependent on transaction volume, average consumer withdrawal amounts, and machine access (i.e., store hours). Without proper planning, your efficiency could decrease as complexity grows.

To find the ideal cash load for a particular ATM and its planned delivery schedule, track about three to six months of customer transactions. Humans are creatures of habit, and you can use that data to understand the average amount of transactions and the average cash value that flows through your ATM.

Once you have an average daily withdrawal amount, times that number by nine, giving you a sum for nine days worth of cash. A nine days surplus is an ideal fit for a weekly refill schedule. There is enough money to handle possible withdrawal spikes without creating additional undue or unnecessary expenses.

Can You Outsource Your Cash Management?

Due to the setup time, liquidity requirements, and costs for delivery, many ATM business owners opt to use a vault cash management service. A third-party service offers you several advantages:

  • Frees up your finances: Many cash services will use their own money to maintain the cash vault. That means you no longer worry about settling your vault or chequing account, and it also frees up a significant sum of money that you could divert to business growth.
  • Seamless service: A vault cash service will maintain the ideal replenishment schedule, ensuring that you always have cash on hand and can fulfill every customer request at your ATM.
  • Lowers operation costs: Save on bank fees, delivery fees, and other expenses by outsourcing your cash management. Any costs incurred become your service partner’s responsibility, making your ATM an efficient, hands-off venture.
  • Increased security: With a service, you no longer risk your own money and limit any potential losses associated with security issues. You don’t have to pick up large sums of money and can avoid employee training by hiring a cash vault service.

For many ATM owners, outsourcing is a preferred method for managing their vault cash.

Partner With Us

At AtmMachines.com, LLC, we offer various service partnerships — including cash vault management. As your outsourced cash vaulter, we handle all responsibilities related to cash loading. We do the heavy lifting! Take advantage of our dependable supply of liquid cash, ensuring same-day withdrawals for deposited vault cash, optimized load amounts and schedules, and coordinated armored couriers with reputable transport services.

With us as your partner, you can take advantage of our industry relationships and business services. For example, If your ATM does not produce enough transactions to justify an armored vehicle, or if your ATM is in remote locations, we work with local, reputable ATM services to facilitate your needs.

A dependable vault cash supply is the linchpin of any thriving ATM program. That is why we offer you comprehensive and hassle-free solutions for cash access, vault supply, and armored carrier management.

Click here to learn more about our Vault Cash Program.

Alternatively, contact us today to request a consultation.

How to Get In The ATM Business – Pitching to New ATM Clients

There is plenty to consider when creating a profitable ATM business. From payment processing to organizing cash liquidity, ATM ownership does include some preparation before providing stable and consistent returns. There are many elements to consider when learning how to get in the ATM business, but in the end, you can certainly see a return on investment.

In particular, the relationship with your ATM clients has a significant impact on your kiosk’s earnings. Location is everything, so the business deals you make with the retailers and business owners for high foot-traffic real estate is crucial to the success of your ATM route.

If you have found the ideal location for placing a machine, read on to learn how you can create a high-quality ATM proposal. One well-devised sales pitch can entice physical store owners into a profitable business relationship. If you own real estate, use the following steps as vetting criteria for good ATM owners.

A Million Ways to Make a Deal Starts with Prep Work

The most efficient way to structure a win-win deal for you and your business clients starts with prep work. Due diligence not only shows the reliability of your proposed income source but also keeps all financial affairs in order. In a business with intensive compliance requirements and a need for good security, an in-depth proposition makes all the difference.

Use the following steps to best outline the terms of your ATM deal clearly and concisely:

Step 1. Set your flat-rate fee and fee split

As an ATM owner, you make money from surcharge fees applied to customers. For each transaction, you take either a flat rate, a percentage fee, a combination of both.

Surcharge fees vary based on several factors, such as geography, foot traffic volume, consumer clientele, business type, etc. And while some ATMs can command a higher surcharge fee, it is best to select a price point that matches market rates.

For example, Citizens Trust Bank in Georgia charges $2 per transaction, First Republic Bank in California is free for regional users, while Bank of America charges $2.50. Meanwhile, the average ATM surcharge for operators currently rests at $3.08. Selecting fees way higher than average will result in less customer usage which will hurt revenues.

Once you set a satisfactory surcharge fee rate, present a cut of that fee to the business owner in your proposal. The split fee is the “value add,” or the possibility of passive income that might interest someone in your ATM opportunity.

Attempt to create a fee structure that is lucrative for both parties. Whether that includes negotiations on total fees or a mixture of both transaction percentages and set customer charges, a good middle ground can leave you both happy. To most store owners, such a deal is quite attractive, as the ATM itself brings in more customers who spend more in addition to passive income.

Step 2:  Get your paperwork in order

Organize all supporting paperwork within your proposal. You need several different document types as an ATM owner, and having that paperwork on hand while making a pitch makes it far easier to entice new business clients.

For example, both you and your potential business partner will need to fill out Automated Clearing House (ACH) service agreements. For security reasons, all businesses must obtain authorization to exchange cash deposits and surcharge fees. Having detailed explanations about who is responsible for the cash float liquidity or how each party receives their share of funds also makes for a better partnership.

Another critical document to prepare for is an ATM Location Agreement (check out our AtmMachines.com Location Agreement template for an example). It is a simple way to lay out all the nuances associated with the proposed ATM placement deal, including maintenance schedules, how to proceed with repairs, insurance requirements, security, installation information, and any other potential legal definitions.

The more paperwork you provide, the more confident your business partner will be in your ATM opportunity. Be sure to collect and present Source of Funds documents, copies of personal identification, compliance forms, and processing agreements within your pitch.

Step 3: Pitching to a client

With the details in order, the next step is proposal delivery.

Your potential clients might not know how to get in the ATM business so make sure they understand the following benefits that an ATM placement can provide:

At first glance, a store owner might not know or understand just how profitable an ATM partnership is. Most businesses rely on customer engagement. An ATM increases total traffic, total cash spent, and total sales conversions, all with a reduction in customer exits (a customer who leaves a store to draw cash is less likely to return and make a purchase). Your pitch must outline how a partnership with you is a lucrative opportunity.

Lastly, don’t forget the importance of branding. A logo, a professional email, and a website are must-haves. Not only does good branding provide identity authenticity, but good marketing material can help drive more potential clients to your business. Demonstrate your authority and credibility to teach potential customers how to get in the ATM business and succeed.

Step 4: Structuring your deal

Even if conditions are perfect, a deal takes time to negotiate. For example, both you and your potential business client need to discuss how the fees split, create projections of revenue numbers, and prepare for overhead costs.

While negotiating, be sure to run the numbers yourself to ensure that your ATM placement will earn you stable returns. Request to view any merchant’s total foot traffic and expected transaction volume to help determine profits with the following formula:

  • [Surcharge fee] x [potential monthly transactions] – [fee split] x 12 months = Potential annual return

Once you can add up the annual rate of return, don’t forget to account for any additional expenses that could lower your earnings, such as kiosk purchases, payment processing fees, and installation costs. In general, a sound ATM investment would result in a 100% return on investment within a year or less.

Often, a good business deal requires a series of adjustments before it becomes mutually beneficial. For example, if the transaction volume of a particular location is less than ideal, that doesn’t mean the opportunity is dead in the water. Instead, see if you can set up a tiered system that rewards higher fees to the store owner if they reach certain transaction thresholds. In many cases, you can settle on a deal across several different scenarios.

There may be some initial effort to get your ATM business up and running, but it remains a profitable investment. And with an excellent pitch to an ideal business client, you can achieve a positive return in a short amount of time. For proof, check out Dan’s Story about how he got started with his own ATM business.

Want to learn more about how to get in the ATM business? For additional insights into structuring and pitching ATM contracts and building partnerships with business owners and other ATM operators, enroll in our Online ATM Business Course

How to Own and Operate an ATM Business: The Difference Between Placement and Ownership

An ATM is an excellent source of secondary income. The industry is booming — global machine installations resting at 51.66 kiosks per 100,000 persons, almost double the 27.2 recorded in 2008. As long as there is a need for cash, consumers will demand access to ATMs. And that offers profit opportunities for stand-alone entrepreneurs or vendors with physical store footprints.

But, if you’ve ever wondered how to own and operate an ATM business then you must be aware that, like any business, owning an ATM has upfront costs, involves time and capital investments, and has a heightened exposure to risk. Without the correct infrastructure or know-how, several barriers (kiosk purchase, setup, fees, warranty, payment processing, etc.) can cut into your investment returns, even within the profitable ATM business.

To help entrepreneurs enter the market and take advantage of the benefits ATMs provide, we created two turnkey service programs that make setting up a kiosk simple and easy. If you’re interested in starting an ATM business, read on to learn about our ATM Placement and ATM Ownership programs.

Free ATM Placement Program

The ATM Placement program is a set-it-and-forget-it solution: we complete every setup requirement involved with an ATM installation. It is the easiest way to enter the ATM market and offer cash dispensing services with the least amount of startup hassle. As a payment partnership, all profits are split, but since you do not own the ATM, you minimize security risk, maintenance costs, and liquidity vaulting. Just provide the location, and we will do the rest!

Who Can Benefit From the ATM Placement Program?

The ATM Placement program is ideal for current store owners or those with access to real estate. Having an ATM on-premise creates several secondary business improvements:

  • Increased organic foot traffic: An ATM can increase the total volume of customers that enter your store. Retailers claim they earned an additional $3000 in last-minute purchases upon introducing a standing BTM.
  • Improved customer payment convenience: Customers will make more purchases if they can pay with their preferred purchase method.
  • Access to new markets: Customers will enter your store to pull out cash, leading to better consumer engagement.
  • Increased in-store purchase volume: The average customer will spend 20-25% of all withdrawn cash from an ATM at your business.
  • Increase overall cart size: Consumer shopping cart sizes tend to increase the value of their shopping cart if they have easy access to bank services.

You earn each of these benefits in addition to the passive income gained from transaction fees. Plus, since the ATM is placed, not owned, there are no upkeep costs or time-consuming manual labor involved with kiosk operations.

Our ATM placement program is ideal for those who are interested in learning how to own and operate an ATM kiosk, need limited risk exposure and have a brick and mortar store: gas stations, grocery stores, shop owners, etc.

What Are the Costs?

Under the ATM Placement Program, the kiosk and its service are delivered 100% free, and we can even supply initial liquidity. All profits work under a revenue-sharing model, depending on your level of involvement (i.e., those who do not bring liquidity to earn a percentage of each transaction, while full placement programs take 50% of each surcharge). You receive your shared earnings via ACH deposit after machine transactions are processed.

What Services Do You Receive?

We complete all tasks involved with owning an ATM for you, including:

  • Setup and Installation
  • Shipping
  • Maintenance
  • Security Monitoring
  • Cash Transportation
  • Payment Processing and Network Access
  • Signage

The ATM Ownership Program

The ATM Ownership program works along the same lines as the placement program but includes ownership of one or multiple kiosks. You take on more risk and service work, but you have complete control of your ATMs and their profits.

The Ownership Program is designed for those who want to manage a machine yet still desire a payment partner for all other service requirements. We can assist with the setup process of your ATM business in addition to processing payments (a necessity for each ATM transaction), but you own and operate the ATM itself.

Who Can Benefit From the ATM Ownership Program?

ATM Ownership is ideal for entrepreneurs who work with large-scale operations or wish to derive more profits from existing ATMs. You will gain all the same benefits as an ATM placement, except now you have complete control to optimize your business for further earnings.

Of course, your risk exposure increases, and the total upkeep, but if you have the time, upfront capital, and you know how to own and operate an ATM kiosk, you can earn robust profits from transaction surcharges.

In particular, salespeople, entrepreneurs, investors, and ATM operators can benefit from the ownership program: the extra effort and investment can lead to higher returns.

What Are the Costs?

First and foremost, those who wish to own a kiosk must pay the upfront price for the ATM (ranging from $2,000-$5,000). Plus, costs related to maintenance and security will increase. For example, you will have to pay for armored vehicle transportation once your ATM cash supply fills, supply liquidity for your machine, fix and repair potential damage, and do extra work to keep your ATM safe and secure.

What Are the Perks?

The Ownership Program gives you complete control over your ATM, but as your partner, we can help streamline and assist any upkeep issues through several services:

  • Access to our armored vehicle partner with nationwide standard rates
  • Use of our dependable cash vaulting supply program for liquidity
  • Standard payment processing requirements
  • Use of our expert technicians for repairs
  • ATM Training programs for employees
  • Replacement parts and fast shipping
  • Help with installation

We also offer an online course that teaches you how to start an ATM business from scratch to generate a six-figure income with very little outlay. Click here to learn more about the course.

Owning an ATM is a profitable enterprise. For both vendors of new entrepreneurs, an ATM leads to tangible benefits and passive income. But there are costs and service requirements for running an ATM.

To help your kiosk earn a positive return on investment, we created our ATM Placement and Ownership programs. As your partner, we can help you install and maintain a well-run ATM.

Contact us to learn more about how to own and operate an ATM business or to request a consultation about buying an ATM. Alternatively, call us today at 1-866-295-2329 to discuss our ATM Placement Program.

Are ATMs a Dying Technology?

It seems that global business has embraced a cashless society. In 2022, the value of digital payments is expected to reach a massive $7,860,739 Million. A 2018 survey on payment type preferences for U.S. customers reports that only 7% of respondents use cash payments when shopping at a department store. On all fronts, it appears that the amount of consumers and businesses that use physical money is on a steep decline.

Digital payments put the value of ATMs into question — without cash, there is no need for physical payment stations. Yet, the total number of ATMs has grown, last recorded in 2020 at 51.66 kiosks per 100,000 people worldwide (up from 29.76 in 2010). The payments industry has changed due to digital transformation, but ATMs remain resilient.

So, is it really a dying technology? Let’s look into the current state of payment kiosks and how the future of the ATM continues to show positive growth.

Is ATM Ownership Still a Profitable Business?

As long as there is cash, there is a need for ATMs. But those who warn about the imminent demise of the standard ATM state that consumers no longer require convenient access to cash. With digital payments, e-transfers, and smartphone wallets as the now-common money transaction method, people might no longer need a cash dispensing machine (money dispensation accounts for 95% of ATM use).

Plus, more data about the decline of physical branches within the banking industry offer no support for the continued use of ATMs. Banks closed more physical locations in the past ten years than opened: JP Morgan shuttered 334 branches, while Deutsche slipped from its high of 3083 locations in 2010 to 1891 in 2020.

With fewer brick-and-mortar stores and less consumer demand for direct cash access, those who argue against ATMs appear wise and prophetic.

But while digital transformation has altered the landscape, it poses no threat to the use of ATMs.

Digital forms of payment continue to grow, but the use of cash remains relatively stable, with close to 20% of all payments in the U.S. still made with physical fiat currency. The ATM is more than a single piece of hardware — it is an endpoint device that delivers a series of benefits to a consumer, such as convenience, brand awareness, access to service, and contactless function.

Digital payments did not delete the ATM: they just changed its purpose as a cash dispensing machine. A kiosk now functions as a multi-purpose service opportunity. Digital transformation only helped the ATM by forcing it to evolve.

The Internet of Things and ATMs

In fact, the Automated Teller Machine is one of the first hardware applications to leverage advancements in digital technology, notably with the Internet of Things (IoT).

IoT is an umbrella term that refers to the digital network that connects physical devices. Through sensors, cameras, and artificial intelligence technology, IoT connects every device to the central network. Across the information highway, any object can help exchange data that help provide better service to real-world applications.

The ATM is the perfect example of how a physical device can integrate with digital IoT properties for improved function:

  • On-Demand Services: With an increase in smart touch technology, an ATM can provide a friendly and simple method for consumers to locate unified services across entire countries for heightened convenience. Ease of use and access to improved services will increase user engagement.
  • Fraud Reduction: The upgrades in digital security via multi-factor authentication, better software, and physical hardware such as cameras and keypad skimmers provide enhanced safety that can reduce total fraud (Losses from ATM attacks have decreased in Europe).
  • Enhanced Data: ATMs connected to the IoT network can analyze customer behavior and give bank leaders actionable insights on ATM usage and service offerings. Real-time intelligence will further increase customer retention through personalized upsell.
  • Wearables: As a more direct example, ATMs can connect with customer wearables, helping notify users of payments or requested cash dispensation through personal smartwatches and another haptic tech.

An ATM is a touchpoint for consumers; it represents the perfect method for banks to interact with their modern clients when married with digital tools.

The Future of ATMs – What Is the Outlook?

ATMs will become a core component of the smart cities that IoT will help facilitate. The ATM has moved away from a simple cash kiosk and is now a branding opportunity, a means to collect service data, and a way to interact with consumers who demand more from their banks.

The new concept of ATM usage is called ATM 2.0, a reference to the switch from simple cash kiosks attached to physical branches to machines that leverage digital transformation for continued profitability.

ATM 2.0

For example, the continued integration with mobile applications will heighten customer service opportunities. You can already request cash withdrawals from your phone, all with cardless access, helping remote and unbanked locations. Some ATMs will also create an online wallet, allowing users to connect to other fintech applications and digital payments methods offered by PayPal or Square.

Of course, digital tokens and hot wallets connected to cryptocurrencies will also help change how money transfers. Case in point: Bitcoin ATM installations have exploded in growth with over 14,000 kiosks placements worldwide.

New security features such as biometrics and facial recognition will protect users, allowing banks to create smart ATMs that offer most standard branch service requests. Mckinsey even stated that the new concept kiosks could improve branch effectiveness by 60-70%.

ATMs Are Innovative and Profitable

At first glance, digital tools appeared to have rendered standard ATM kiosks obsolete. With the rapid changes in the payments industry, many skeptics declared the end of ATMs.

Yet, while the introduction of digital transformation certainly changed how consumers demanded access to their banks, it has not affected ATM usage. Instead, it has forced ATMs and banks to innovate, allowing for new IoT integrations and the creation of ATM 2.0. Kiosks now function as primary customer touchpoints that use digital tools for better service. The ATM remains a prominent and profitable technology.

Are you looking to start your business journey as an ATM entrepreneur? Get in touch with ATMMachines to discover how you can own a kiosk through our ATM placement and ownership programs.

Top 3 Challenges of Setting Up a Bitcoin ATM Company

Entrepreneurs and business owners are rapidly entering the Bitcoin ATM (BTM) market. Global installations of cryptocurrency ATMs have increased by more than 70% in 2021, continuing the 120% growth rate demand set in 2020. As a form of investment, people are taking advantage of the lucrative profits available from a well-run Bitcoin ATM company.

While a Bitcoin ATM placement might seem like a straightforward process, several challenges can hamper your kiosk’s profits. Bitcoin legal issues, administration costs, and Bitcoin ATM processing all require effort and preparation, and that resource expense can hurt your total return on investment.

To help make your Bitcoin ATM business opportunity a success and to prepare you for any start-up pitfalls, read on to learn about the three primary challenges associated with your cryptocurrency kiosk.

Challenge #1: Time

When tackled on your own, the entire BTM company process can take an average of four to six months. Since a Bitcoin ATM is a Money Service Business (MSB), you must obtain several compliance and business licenses to operate in your state, all of which require extra time. Plus, the legal requirements are complex, and you must source and hire a compliance officer to help prevent any undue risk. The various regulatory hurdles can stretch the start-up time of what looked like a simple ATM placement.

Beyond government requirements, there are also additional tasks involved with your kiosk setup. You will need to:

  • Source reliable software to handle your Bitcoin ATM processing
  • Register with a cryptocurrency exchange
  • Arrange for armored vehicle pickups to transport your fiat cash
  • Rent suitable real estate
  • And install your cryptocurrency ATM in your rented spot

While each of these start-up procedures is crucial to the overall success of your Bitcoin ATM, it does involve a lengthy time expense and a lot of additional effort.

Challenge #2: Costs

A series of overhead costs are necessary for any new Bitcoin ATM business.

  • Kiosk Purchases: You need to buy your physical kiosk itself, and prices can range from $3000 to upwards of $10,000.
  • Software Expenses: If your BTM kiosk does not include programming, you also need to pay for the internal software and any additional payment processing fees that facilitate all transactions.
  • Liquidity: Since a Bitcoin ATM transfers both Bitcoin and fiat currencies, it is required that you hold a certain amount of liquidity to ensure that every customer exchange request occurs without issue. For fiat transfers, you need a Bitcoin-friendly bank, and for crypto assets, you must purchase a hot wallet. The amount of liquidity you hold in each account depends on your Bitcoin ATMs transaction volume, but it often involves a sizeable amount of capital.

Beyond the overhead costs, you must also prepare for monthly expenses ($200-$300 a month) related to maintenance, repairs, and operational costs, along with setting fees for your armored vehicle transports.

Challenge #3: Security

Like any ATM, security is a critical element in the success of a Bitcoin kiosk, and there are some factors you must address to keep your machine safe.

  • Physical Location: You want to place your Bitcoin ATM along paths, malls, or public walkways that gain a lot of foot traffic. While open locations increase your machine’s total transaction volume and profits, it exposes you to potential theft. Most operators need to set up closed-circuit cameras and abundant lighting to deter bad actors.
  • Physical Machine Security: Each kiosk should have high-quality locks and reinforced steel to protect cash floats held within the machine.
  • Faulty Software: A Cryptocurrency exchange is only accessed online, and your machine uses applications to locate customer identification information. Unprotected software can fall victim to malware or phishing scams, and you might need to foot the bill for that fraudulent activity. Moreover, your applications have to connect with your payment processing partner for each transaction, and faulty software can cause costly errors.
  • Admin Security Codes: Many BTMs supply QR codes to represent the exchanged Bitcoins, and each machine uses an Admin password for kiosk management. While a single admin code is helpful, it becomes a critical weak point — if the top-level access is compromised, the entire machine becomes vulnerable. Owners often need support from a security partner to remedy this issue.

How ATMMachines Can Help

Even though setting up a Bitcoin ATM company has its own set of challenges, it remains a profitable venture, and most owners announce a break-even point after six months of operation.

To make the entire process of Bitcoin ATM ownership even easier for you, ATMMachines started a unique Bitcoin ATM Ownership program. It is a partnership program where all you have to do is secure a location and purchase a kiosk — ATMMachines handles all the rest!

In exchange for payment processing fees, you receive the following benefits:

  • Access to our compliance program and compliance officers for easy regulatory approval
  • Free shipping, set up, and installation of your kiosk
  • Use of our software for all simple payment processing and high-level admin security
  • Use of our Bitcoin supply. No need for a hot wallet, the purchase of bitcoin, fiat liquidity requirements. Plus, reduce your risk exposure for each customer transaction.
  • Piggyback on our armored carriers with company-specific locks and preferred freight rates

As your partner, all the hassle and challenges that would threaten the success of your Bitcoin ATM diminish, and you can enjoy better profits. Best of all, you maintain full ownership over your kiosk!

Wrap Up

While it may seem like a simple kiosk placement, starting a Bitcoin ATM business does come with a set of challenges that can increase your overhead costs and extend your break-even point. If you want to start your venture in Bitcoin ATM entrepreneurship with less difficulty and better scalability, a partnership with AtmMachines.com, LLC can turn your kiosk start-up into a simple process with an enhanced ROI.

Do you want more information? Check out our Bitcoin ATM services page to learn more about our Bitcoin ATM Ownership Program.

Are Bitcoin ATMs Legal in New York?

Bitcoin’s surge in popularity has contributed to a rapid increase in Bitcoin ATM (BTM) installations. Previously, governments used to frown upon the exchange of Bitcoin. The decentralized, anonymous, and private nature of cryptocurrencies seemed unsecured, and since no official regulatory body governed digital tokens, Bitcoin ATMs felt like a legal grey area.

Nowadays, you might have seen the many ATM signs offering Bitcoin transfers in shops and convenience store windows. Almost 300,000 Bitcoin transactions occur every day, and there are currently 199 Bitcoin ATMs stationed in New York alone. Even large enterprises such as Paypal and Microsoft accept Bitcoin as consumer payments.

So, are Bitcoin ATMs Legal?

Yes! But that does mean the government enforces a series of regulations that uphold the safety of all physical cryptocurrency exchanges. If you plan to invest in a BTM, you must attain compliance, and failure to do so can lead to severe repercussions. Read on to discover how you can set up a legal (and profitable) Bitcoin ATM in New York.

What are the Legal Requirements for Owning A Bitcoin ATM in NY?

Every country and state has different laws that concern the transfer of money, even for cryptocurrencies. The Financial Crimes and Enforcement Network (FinCEN)  is the primary governing body in the United States, and it helps reduce fraud, theft, and the illegal use of money. Bitcoin remains decentralized, so FinCEN does not concern itself with the unregulated token, only the transfer of funds initiated by Money Service Businesses (MSB).

Money Service Business Compliance Requirements

Since Bitcoin ATMs transmit money, they are considered MSBs, and that brings several requirements you as a BTM owner must complete under New York state and federal law.

  • Register with FinCEN: Registration with FinCEN as a Money Service Business is necessary. Not only does this protect you under the Bank Secrecy Act (BSA), but it allows you to use your BTM in the United States legally. Registration occurs every two years.
  • Create a KYC and AML compliance policy and program: Know Your Customer (KYC), and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) compliance standards ensure that all personal identification is kept private and that your Bitcoin kiosk prevents the illegal use of means.
  • Hire a compliance officer: You must designate or hire a qualified officer who becomes responsible for the efficient operation of your BSA, KYC, and AML policies. The officer must possess expertise equal to the risk associated with your BTM, determined by the number of potential transactions and cumulative value exchanged.
  • Obtain all necessary state licenses: Beyond the federal requirements, individual states have different laws concerning money transfers and Bitcoin itself. The New York Department of Financial Services (DAF) allowed for Bitlicense and the operation of virtual currencies, but additional requirements may arise as legislation continues to change.
  • Set up a Money Service Transmitter License: New York also requires Bitcoin ATM owners to obtain a Money Transmitter License (MTL). An MTL license ensures that you maintain a certain amount of liquidity to facilitate all money requests, and it also involves the submission of additional financial documentation.
  • Maintain specific insurance policies and surety bonds: You must submit to your state office or the Nationwide MultiState Licensing System (NMLS) several other documents such as a business plan, proof of net worth, and proof of insurance. Fees often apply, and you might need to register for standard operating business licenses within the state of New York as well. In many cases, a fiat surety bond to ensure the safety of all user transactions is required.

How Can ATMMachines Help?

Achieving compliance with your Bitcoin ATM is a time-consuming and complex process. Many owners spend thousands of dollars compiling all the necessary documents and compliance requests, and the timeline to profitability can extend by four to six months. Moreover, regulators continue to update and alter the legal requirements with Bitcoin use, further complicating the entire system. Starting a Bitcoin ATM business from scratch is a significant undertaking.

To simplify the lengthy setup process associated with a Bitcoin ATM for entrepreneurs, AtmMachines.com, LLC has created the Bitcoin ATM Ownership Program. It is a turnkey program that allows entrepreneurs to own and operate a Bitcoin Kiosk — without any upfront hassle.

The Bitcoin ATM Ownership Program

To give you a better return on investment and a faster time-to-profitability, we handle every element involved with starting a Bitcoin ATM business, including all compliance and legal requirements. Take advantage of the following benefits:

  • Federal registration: Piggyback off our Money Service Business license and any additional AML policies.
  • Know Your Customer training: Learn how to employ a proper KYC program to reduce fraud and remain compliant.
  • Access to a BTM compliance officer: Our compliance team monitors and reports transaction information according to state and national law.
  • State licenses specific to New York: We can obtain any licenses unique to your jurisdiction with ease (if we don’t have them already).
  • Preferred rates for armored vehicle transfers: Enjoy better fees for cash transfers from your ATM.
  • Liquidity: Use our Bitcoin for any customer transactions, eliminating any fiat liquidity requirements and the need for a cryptocurrency hot wallet.

We offer each of these services to any customers who purchase a Bitcoin ATM through us. All you need to do is select and set your kiosk, leave the rest to us. Since we offer a partnership program, you remain the sole owner of your Bitcoin ATM, giving you access to the lucrative Bitcoin markets without the time-consuming process of meeting each legal requirement for an MSB in New York.

Key Takeaway

A Bitcoin ATM is a legal and profitable venture in New York state. But the compliance and regulatory hurdles involved with ownership are extensive and complex. The startup process can be time and labor-intensive, from finding compliance officers to obtaining money transmitters and business licenses. If you want a simplified way to start a Bitcoin ATM business, take advantage of our unique Bitcoin ATM Ownership Program.

Curious about our Bitcoin ATM programs? Visit our service page for more information.

The Digital Future of Money

You’ve probably heard of Bitcoin and the new types of crypto coins the past year. Digital tokens continue to grow in popularity, and the global adoption of crypto assets increased by 881% in the past year. The world has begun to accept the idea of digital money, and that disruption has altered the public view of technology-based finance.

Unsurprisingly, countries across the globe have taken different stances towards digital assets. Cryptocurrencies are unregulated and decentralized, and that opposes the current financial system used by most governments. But even the staunchest critics have begun to welcome the new form of value and its underlying blockchain technology, and many countries now consider it an avenue to generate wealth.

It appears that crypto, alt-coins, and digital money are here to stay, so let’s take a look at what cryptocurrencies are and how governments across the globe are approaching the new form of digital payment.

What is Cryptocurrency?

A cryptocurrency is a digital form of money that uses cryptography to record and secure financial transactions on a public ledger. Since the public ensures the validity of each crypto asset on the ledger (in most cases built from blockchain technology), it is considered decentralized because no single member controls or regulates supply.

Most cryptocurrencies use tokens to determine their value and facilitate exchanges. Since each token has no underlying asset, the price of an individual cryptocurrency relies on benchmarks such as the USD or other crypto tokens. Supply and demand determine price fluctuations, so you can consider each cryptocurrency as a type of “digital gold.” Bitcoin is the most popular cryptocurrency and has a limited supply (21 million).

Any unregulated form of money with no asset base involves risk, and that is part of the reason why governments have shied away from cryptocurrencies. But digital cash manages that risk with its public ledger, providing better privacy, security, liquidity, and payment flexibility.

Digital Money Around the World

It is much easier to transport, buy goods and services, and send payments with digital cash. The reliability and transfer speeds of digital tokens can disrupt the slow and outdated financial systems of fiat money, so countries around the globe have warmed to the idea of cryptocurrency.

North America

North America has accepted Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies as forms of money, but extensive government regulation continues to slow the broader use of digital tokens as payment.

About 13% of Americans traded cryptocurrencies in 2020, but institutional purchasing by corporations should drive change. 36% of small businesses now accept Bitcoin, and corporations such as Home Depot, Tesla, Starbucks, Walmart, and Microsoft all have Point of Sale (POS) systems for crypto tokens.

The Federal Reserve first disregarded cryptocurrencies but has since put numerous regulations to help protect crypto users from fraudulent activity and scams. Further change and governmental acceptance are apparent with the feds unveiling their own Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC).

Asia

Asia is responsible for the largest retail adoption of Bitcoin, with many emerging markets taking advantage of the digital coins and their ability to store value outside of the U.S. Dollar (the world’s reserve currency).

Data platform ChainAnalysis measured the increase in peer-to-peer crypto exchange use, with Vietnam, India, and Pakistan taking the top three spots. Bitcoin use in Vietnam even doubled year over year, most likely due to the influence of Bitrefill, a crypto-based gift card exchange company.

Source

Conversely, China declared that all cryptocurrencies are illegal, causing dips into crypto asset prices and lower usage within the region. All mining, exchange transactions, and bank transfers with crypto assets are forbidden while the authoritarian government creates a digital Yuan.

South and Central America

El Salvador committed a historic ruling and became the first country to accept Bitcoin as legal tender. All Salvadoran businesses must now facilitate payments via Bitcoin. The unprecedented legislation sparked renewed interest in cryptocurrencies in Latin America:

  • Paraguay: lawmakers presented a bill to turn Bitcoin into a commodity and thus collect taxes on it, a move met with much disdain from crypto users.
  • Panama: Congressman Gabriel Silva presented Crypto Law, a bill designed to promote Bitcoin as the future of Panamanian money.
  • Brazil: The Brazilian House of Representatives approved bill 2.303/15 to make Bitcoin legal tender, stating that it is a recognized asset for real estate and daily retail purchases.

Other countries such as Mexico, Venezuela, and Argentina are all exploring cryptocurrency to solve high inflation problems and the cost of USD remittances.

Africa

Even though many African nations do not officially recognize cryptocurrencies as a form of payment, Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa report extensive transaction volumes in consumer and commercial markets. Kenya traded over $920,000 worth of crypto assets per week in the first quarter of 2021. The private development of a Kenya-based digital token, Akoin, is in place (with backing from wealthy rapper Akon).

In South Africa, recent data suggest that close to 50% of all South Africans own a cryptocurrency, and Nigeria received over $2.4 billion worth of crypto assets in the first quarter of 2021, volume second only to the United States. The Nigerian government scrambled to prevent such untaxed money supply, outlawing crypto exchanges before establishing a government-controlled token called eNaira.

Is the Future of Money Digital?

While governments grapple with control over unregulated digital tokens, the benefits to GDP growth, cross-border payments, remittances, and flexible payment solutions make cryptocurrency and its technology unavoidable. Worldwide demand for digital tokens and governmental attempts to create individual coins shows how valuable blockchain-based assets are to global markets.

While a hot wallet to hold digital tokens is not a requirement for most people who use fiat money, the opportunity for optimized and convenient digital banking systems is available if you accept stable cryptocurrencies. Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other government-backed digital forms of money have disrupted traditional methods of transactions, and you can use digital tokens to make purchases with lower fees and less hassle at faster speeds. The future will involve digital money, and those who invest will remain at the forefront of financial innovation.

One of the best ways to capitalize on the growing trend of Bitcoin is a Bitcoin ATM company. Crypto ATM installations have increased 70% this year as entrepreneurs facilitate cash-for-bitcoin exchanges for crypto users. A Bitcoin ATM can increase foot traffic to your business, collect transaction fees for profit within six months, and give you access to digital value stores that can outperform inflation. It is an excellent way to explore the lucrative markets of digital currencies.

Curious about entering the Bitcoin ATM market? Check out our Bitcoin ATM service page for more information.