How did Bitnovo come about, and what was the initial motivation behind founding the company?
Bitnovo launched in Valencia in 2015, although the idea started taking shape earlier when our founder, Marcos Muñoz, realized how difficult it was for Spanish-speaking users to buy Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies. Foreign platforms were few, slow, and often too technical. Bitnovo was born with the goal of making crypto accessible to everyone in a simple and secure way.
What is Bitnovo’s key differentiator compared to other crypto payment solutions?
We’ve always prioritized simplicity and security. Early on, we brought this approach to life through redeemable vouchers, now available in over 40,000 physical retail locations. We also strongly believe in the mantra “not your keys, not your coins,” and promote self-custody so that users always retain full control. Our wide range of products—including physical purchase channels, ease of use, security, and self-custody—is what truly sets us apart.
What types of companies are adopting crypto payments, and what benefits have they seen?
Every day, more and more businesses are joining—from small shops and cafés to luxury retailers, automotive dealers, electronics chains, and SMEs whose customers are eager to embrace new technologies.
Why do you think accepting cryptocurrencies is becoming a real need for both online and physical businesses?
It’s simply about demand—customers are asking for it. Offering crypto as a payment method helps businesses stay competitive, boosts their image as modern brands, and enables frictionless cross-border transactions.
From your experience, what impact does offering innovative payment methods like crypto have on brand perception?
As I mentioned, it positions you as a modern brand: current, user-centric, and adaptable. It builds trust among younger or digital-native audiences, while also setting you apart from the competition.
How do you see crypto adoption evolving in Europe over the next 3–5 years? And in Spain specifically?
I think we’re on an upward trajectory. Over 10% of the population has experimented with crypto, and with the arrival of MiCA regulation, institutional trust will grow significantly. In Spain, growth is following a similar path, with more companies—both in and outside the crypto space—beginning to offer crypto-related services. In the coming years, we’ll continue to see steady adoption and the emergence of new products and solutions powered by crypto—even if users aren’t aware that they’re using it.
Your system allows merchants to receive crypto and instantly get euros. How have you tackled the challenge of volatility and regulatory compliance?
We convert instantly. Our solution, Bitnovo Pay, turns crypto into euros in real time, ensuring that merchants receive their funds without any volatility risk. As for regulation, we’ve always held ourselves to standards even stricter than those required. That’s likely why we’re the only Spanish platform to have obtained licenses not only in Spain, but also in France and the Netherlands—two of the most demanding jurisdictions in this space.
You also offer a self-custody wallet. Why do you champion this model, and how do you educate users on its importance?
We believe real control over funds should always rest with the user. It’s about responsibility and financial freedom. On the education front, we offer easy-to-understand content on safeguarding keys, storing recovery phrases, and avoiding common mistakes. We also host regular webinars and training sessions, and we’ve been collaborating with universities for years—because we believe financial education is essential.
What does becoming a supporter of Startup Valencia mean to you?
It’s a source of pride and a natural step for us as a Valencian company. It allows us to support the local ecosystem, open doors, share our experience, and contribute to the region’s tech growth.
How do you view Valencia’s startup ecosystem, and what role do you think it plays in Southern Europe’s tech development?
The leading Spanish crypto companies were born, grew, and matured in the Valencian Community. When you combine talented teams, strong infrastructure, and quality of life, you get a strategic hub—not just for crypto, but for fintech as a whole.
And what about VDS, the international tech summit taking place on October 22–23 at the City of Arts and Sciences in Valencia?
It’s a fantastic event that brings together key players from the tech world—startups, investors, and institutions. For us, it’s a great opportunity to showcase use cases, drive crypto adoption, connect with new talent, and stay updated on new ideas and trends.
What advice would you give to entrepreneurs building innovative fintech or crypto solutions?
I’m not one to give advice, but from our experience, I’d say the first thing is to master the regulatory side. Then, make the technology as transparent as possible for the user. And finally, surround yourself with great partners so you can focus on your product.
What’s next for Bitnovo in terms of expansion, products, or new services?
We have two clear goals: expand our presence in Latin America, where our products are a great fit, and continue developing and launching B2B-focused solutions, which are currently in high demand.
