Bitcoin as everyday money
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Block Calls for $600 Tax Exemption to Bridge Bitcoin's Usability Gap
PYMNTS.com· 2025-11-18 19:32
Core Perspective - The company aims to position bitcoin as practical everyday money and an alternative payment method that bypasses intermediaries and reduces fees [1][4]. Group 1: Campaign and Tax Exemption - Block launched a campaign advocating for a de minimis tax exemption up to $600 to modernize how bitcoin is treated under U.S. tax law [4][6]. - The campaign emphasizes that bitcoin should be treated like money when used as such, aligning with the vision presented in Satoshi Nakamoto's 2009 bitcoin white paper [5][8]. Group 2: Merchant Value Proposition - The new Square bitcoin payment option allows millions of U.S. merchants to accept bitcoin directly at the point of sale, aiming to reduce processing costs that typically exceed 3% for credit card transactions [6][9]. - The zero-fee structure of bitcoin payments is highlighted as a significant advantage for merchants [6][9]. Group 3: Educational and Regulatory Aspects - The campaign focuses on educating consumers about the ease of using bitcoin for transactions, showcasing real-time payment flows to diminish educational barriers [8]. - The company frames the issue as one of classification, advocating for a unique regulatory approach to bitcoin as an asset class that does not fit neatly into existing frameworks [7][8]. Group 4: Long-term Vision - Block envisions a future where bitcoin payments serve as a parallel network competing on efficiency, potentially benefiting both merchants and the broader economy [9]. - The company believes that the long-term economic impact could be quantifiable, enhancing merchants' profitability and contributing positively to the economy [9].