Navigating the Crypto Wave in Pursuit of Dual Citizenship

By Kara Doherty

Entering 2024, following a period of Bitcoin market price dormancy, citizenship by investment (CBI) saw an unprecedented 300% surge in applications in Q1. This surge directly correlates with the onset of the bull market, marked by soaring prices of Bitcoin, altcoins, meme coins, and ordinals, even preceding the imminent Bitcoin halving.

Cryptocurrency has emerged as a formidable force, outperforming even the renowned "Magnificent Seven" tech and growth stocks over the past five years, delivering remarkable returns exceeding 1,500%. Bitcoin's meteoric rise has seen it achieve all-time highs across all global currencies and even surpass silver in market capitalization. This surge, coupled with the traditional catalyst of the upcoming US elections, has propelled interest and applications to unprecedented levels in the first quarter of 2024. Investors are proactively seeking to hedge geopolitical and tax risks early, anticipating the monumental potential of this bull market to "melt faces.”

Cryptocurrency and dual citizenships are driving forces shaping a new, grassroots world reflecting the diverse perspectives of two prominent key players: the traditionalists from the traditional finance (trad-fi) space and the decentralized enthusiasts, affectionately referred to as "crypto degens.” After all, this is all a simulation.

Investors from the traditional finance sphere, especially those who have recently 'layered-in' more heavily into crypto leading up to or following the Bitcoin ETF approval, are directing their attention toward Europe. Seeking stability and desiring citizenship mirroring the familiar landscapes of their own countries makes Europe a strong contender. Countries like Portugal and Cyprus, with their robust Citizenship and Residency by Investment programs, offer investors the opportunity to hedge geopolitical risks, protect assets, and capitalize on favorable tax structures. For these individuals, obtaining a second citizenship or residency is a strategic move within the framework of traditional investment principles, including diversifying and hedging their investment portfolio, with 'citizenship as an asset' included.

On the flip side, crypto degens, a community shaped by the principles of decentralization, find solace and opportunity amid the idyllic lifestyle of the Caribbean. With Bitcoin hitting an all-time high again and overall bullish sentiment, the Caribbean’s CIP program, featuring a stable entry price of 100k, is now relatively cheaper in Bitcoin terms. The serene lifestyle the Caribbean offers aligns with crypto degens' deep-seated desire for less control, more freedom, living off-grid, and thriving in the crypto on-chain portfolio.

These enthusiasts, often peaceful anarcho-capitalists, are drawn to the idea of privacy without necessarily seeking anonymity. For them, dual citizenship is not just a strategic move; it's a step towards achieving a lifestyle that mirrors their philosophical values in a favorable fiscal environment.

As the crypto market appreciates and geopolitical tensions escalate in regions like the US and Canada, the popularity of dual citizenship programs is on the rise. Crypto investors, whether trad-fi adherents or crypto degens, recognize the need to diversify not only their financial portfolios but also their geopolitical exposure. These programs provide a strategic escape route, offering investors a haven amid uncertain geopolitical landscapes.

In this dynamic scenario, where traditionalists and crypto degens converge in their pursuit of dual citizenship, the cryptocurrency revolution continues to shape the way individuals navigate global landscapes, fostering a new era of financial and personal autonomy.

Author Bio

As the Managing Director of Apex Capital Partners, Kara leads the charge in pioneering both traditional and alternative investment avenues. With a keen focus on serving the crypto community, she is committed to helping individuals find their financial freedom and mitigate risks. Kara's leadership and vision are shaping the roadmap of Apex Capital Partners, as they continue to pave the way for innovative solutions in the investment space. 

Kara Doherty, a native of Antigua and Barbuda, embarked on a journey that led her from her homeland to  North America. With a thirst for knowledge and a drive for success, Kara temporarily migrated to North America to pursue her bachelor's degree and delve into the world of finance. She honed her skills and became a licensed stockbroker for US securities, navigating the complexities of the financial markets, and she joined Apex to assist crypto investors in navigating the intricacies of citizenship by investment while holding the relevant licensing for this mission.