Blockstream announced today that it has introduced a consulting division tailored for financial institutions alongside the opening of a new office in Lugano, Switzerland. According to the company, this expansion grants asset managers, banks, and other institutional players direct entry to Blockstream’s Bitcoin infrastructure and engineering experts.
Blockstream Consulting Services will guide institutions through evaluating, designing, and rolling out Bitcoin-centric financial systems. The firm stated that the division will craft solutions focused on confidential settlement, tokenized asset issuance, and associated frameworks, offering services that cover technical strategy, system architecture, integration, and execution.
Operating out of Lugano, Blockstream aims to assist clients throughout Switzerland, including Geneva, Zurich, and Zug. The firm noted that the new location will function as the central hub for its European activities, managing strategic alliances, client interactions, and joint efforts with local technology and financial sectors.
“Switzerland is an important market for Blockstream given its longstanding banking tradition and supportive regulatory framework for digital assets,” said Peter Bain, chief marketing officer of the company. “We look to provide regional expertise in markets where we see demand for Bitcoin infrastructure. Our consulting business, combined with our new office in Lugano, will bring tailored Bitcoin solutions to financial institutions across Europe.”
Established in 2014, Blockstream builds products and technology spanning payments, Bitcoin custody, settlement, asset issuance, and self-custody. Its ecosystem features the Elements platform, the Liquid Network sidechain, Core Lightning, Simplicity, the Blockstream App, and the Jade hardware wallet. Throughout this year, the firm introduced Lightning integration to the Jade wallet and launched Simplicity smart contracts on the Liquid Network.
Bitcoin adoption by financial institutions
Blockstream noted that its new consulting practice leverages this deep background, offering specialized skills in protocol engineering, cryptography, security, and financial technology. Cross-functional teams will ensure institutions receive hands-on support from the company’s technical personnel, starting from the initial assessment phase all the way to final rollout.
“The next phase of Bitcoin adoption is its integration into existing financial systems,” said Adam Back, Blockstream’s co-founder and CEO. “Our extensive experience in Bitcoin cryptography, protocol development and engineering gives Blockstream the technical expertise to address the complexities of integrating Bitcoin into traditional financial infrastructure.”
The enterprise described this expansion as a reflection of its enduring dedication to Switzerland, as well as a wider initiative to establish footprints in vital regions to drive institutional Bitcoin integration.
Switzerland has grown into a major hub for digital asset enterprises, anchored by Zug’s “Crypto Valley” and supportive regulations that allow domestic banks to buy, hold, and trade bitcoin for their clients.
Blockstream did not reveal financial terms, specific client names, or staff numbers for the Lugano facility. However, the firm confirmed that the Lugano office is currently operational and consulting engagements are open to institutions throughout Europe.
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Blockstream launch?
Blockstream launched a consulting business for financial institutions and opened a new office in Lugano, Switzerland.
Where is Blockstream’s new European hub located?
The new office is located in Lugano, Switzerland, to serve clients across the country and the wider European region.
What services does Blockstream Consulting Services offer?
It supports institutions with technical strategy, system architecture, integration, and the implementation of Bitcoin-based financial infrastructure, including confidential settlement and tokenized asset issuance.
Who are the key executives mentioned in the announcement?
Peter Bain is the chief marketing officer, and Adam Back is the co-founder and CEO of Blockstream.
