Bitso Is Providing the ‘Core Service’ for El Salvador’s Chivo Bitcoin Wallet

The company will also work with Silvergate Bank to facilitate transactions in U.S. dollars

AccessTimeIconSep 8, 2021 at 10:11 p.m. UTC
Updated May 11, 2023 at 5:53 p.m. UTC
10 Years of Decentralizing the Future
May 29-31, 2024 - Austin, TexasThe biggest and most established global hub for everything crypto, blockchain and Web3.Register Now

Mexico-based crypto exchange Bitso is the core crypto-service provider for Chivo, the digital wallet developed by the government of El Salvador for the use of bitcoin throughout the Central American country.

The company said in a press release Tuesday it will work with the U.S.-based Silvergate Bank to facilitate transactions in U.S. dollars. It is unclear whether this includes both international remittances and domestic transactions or only one type of transaction.

  • Bitcoin Ecosystem Developments in 2023 as BTC Hits Fresh 2023 High
    08:42
    Bitcoin Ecosystem Developments in 2023 as BTC Hits Fresh 2023 High
  • Bitcoin Extends Rally as $1B in BTC Withdrawals Suggests Bullish Mood
    01:10
    Bitcoin Extends Rally as $1B in BTC Withdrawals Suggests Bullish Mood
  • Why Financial Advisors Are So Excited About a Spot Bitcoin ETF
    1:02:43
    Why Financial Advisors Are So Excited About a Spot Bitcoin ETF
  • When Could Traders See the Arrival of a Spot Bitcoin ETF?
    02:21
    When Could Traders See the Arrival of a Spot Bitcoin ETF?
  • Bitso processed $1.2 billion worth of remittances between the U.S. and Mexico during 2020, adding that it is “now ready to apply this expertise to El Salvador,” the company said.

    According to its press release, Bitso’s role as the core crypto-service provider began when the Chivo wallet app was placed in the Android and iOS phone app stores on Tuesday.

    “We are looking forward to working with El Salvador in an initiative that will transform payment structures and increase financial inclusion in the country,” said Santiago Alvarado, VP of Bitso for Business. “As the leading crypto exchange in the region, we are thrilled to bring our experience in remittances and in secure and low-friction financial services to Salvadorans.”

    In the early hours of Tuesday morning, the Chivo wallet registered technical errors and the government interrupted its use to reinforce “technical aspects,” according to a government statement published on Tuesday.

    A spokesperson for Bitso did not respond to a request for comment about its role in this interruption.

    According to Bitso, “The use of the Chivo wallet is completely optional, and those without citizenship will be able to access the app as well.”

    In May, Bitso raised its Series C funding round at a $2.2 billion valuation. It was the region’s first cryptocurrency company to exceed a $1 billion valuation.

    El Salvador has also tapped crypto custodian BitGo for wallet infrastructure and security.

    Disclosure

    Please note that our privacy policy, terms of use, cookies, and do not sell my personal information has been updated.

    CoinDesk is an award-winning media outlet that covers the cryptocurrency industry. Its journalists abide by a strict set of editorial policies. In November 2023, CoinDesk was acquired by the Bullish group, owner of Bullish, a regulated, digital assets exchange. The Bullish group is majority-owned by Block.one; both companies have interests in a variety of blockchain and digital asset businesses and significant holdings of digital assets, including bitcoin. CoinDesk operates as an independent subsidiary with an editorial committee to protect journalistic independence. CoinDesk employees, including journalists, may receive options in the Bullish group as part of their compensation.

    Andrés Engler

    Andrés Engler was a CoinDesk editor based in Argentina, where he covers the Latin American crypto ecosystem. He holds BTC and ETH.


    Learn more about Consensus 2024, CoinDesk's longest-running and most influential event that brings together all sides of crypto, blockchain and Web3. Head to consensus.coindesk.com to register and buy your pass now.