What Florianópolis residents think about digital currencies

Florianópolis is the Brazilian capital with the largest share of the technology sector in its economy today. This innovative environment has favored the adoption of cryptocurrencies and digital assets in the region.

Technological advancement in the region

The capital of Santa Catarina has already shown growth in technological investment between 2010 and 2023, going from 600 to more than 6 thousand companies in the sector in the region, and it didn't stop there: the city, recognized in 2024 with the title “National Capital of Startups”, is the Brazilian capital with the highest percentage of GDP generation by the technological sector, totaling 25%, behind only Barueri (27,5%).

Developments in this area began with the encouragement of the Federal University of Santa Catarina (UFSC) and the founding of the first tech companies back in the 80s. Softplan, Nexxera, Dígitro, and Pixeon helped consolidate this progress, along with the founding of RD Station and Neoway, two giants that were acquired in billion-dollar deals and started in Florianópolis. This growing interest in technology is favoring the adoption of digital currencies.

Local businesses have already integrated cryptocurrencies into their business models, such as Ponta D'Agulha steakhouse and Barbearia VIP, in partnership with fintech Bancryp. Furthermore, Multi Open Shopping, located in the Rio Tavares neighborhood, became the first shopping center in Brazil to accept Bitcoin as a form of payment in virtually all of its stores.

It doesn't matter what digital currency you have, Bitcoin, Ethereum, BNB Faucet…using blockchain technology to make your transactions, you can now pay for your meal with these assets.

The mood and fear of the population

Despite initial enthusiasm, many residents are cautious. In informal interviews on the streets of Florianópolis, the dilemma is common: "I like innovation, but I'm still afraid of losing money." Local experts have emphasized the importance of educational campaigns on security, volatility, and taxation, as the ecosystem has grown rapidly without the same progress in civic education on these topics.

Physical spaces and events

Another factor that positively influences the trend is the holding of meetups, workshops, and events about cryptocurrencies in the capital. The Federal University of Santa Catarina (UFSC) and innovation hubs are promoting free meetings and lectures that map out the public's interests, connecting beginners with pros, exchanging experiences, and addressing concerns. This circulation of knowledge reinforces the environment conducive to gradual adoption.

How to invest in digital currencies as an individual

With the increasing presence of cryptocurrencies in everyday life and the spread of knowledge on the subject, many Brazilians have already diversified their investment portfolios and invested in digital currencies as a complement.

For those looking to invest their money in digital assets, it's essential to understand the basic steps, the risks involved, and where to look for reliable information:

1. Choose a reliable cryptocurrency exchange: register, create an account, and then start buying. These platforms allow you to buy, sell, and store digital currencies relatively easily, with payments via TED, Pix, or card.
2. Start with low values

Because the digital asset market is volatile, beginners are advised to invest only a small portion of their assets (after building up their emergency fund and low-risk investments, move on to medium- to high-risk investments).

3. Study the available currencies

There are thousands of cryptocurrencies with different purposes, such as those used for smart contracts and decentralized applications; those focused on speed and scalability; and even those launched without pretense, purely for fun (meme coins).

4. Stay safe

Use two-factor authentication (2FA): Go to the security area or account settings on the exchange and activate the "Two-Factor Authentication" or "2FA" option; avoid leaving large amounts on exchanges (prefer your own digital wallets) and be wary of promises of easy or guaranteed profits.

5. Stay tuned for regulations

Brazilian legislation is evolving, and the Central Bank is already closely monitoring the sector. The Federal Revenue Service requires cryptoassets to be declared on Income Tax returns, so it's important to keep all purchase and sale receipts.

Whether in Florianópolis or any other city in Brazil, technological advancements in this sector are already significant. Study, learn, and choose the investments that make the most sense for you!

Practical experience in Floripa

In Florianópolis, there are reports of people who started with small cryptocurrency purchases to pay for coffee and returned to the financial market with greater confidence. They say that the practical experience, combined with local events and online content, helped them dispel their fears and build a real learning cycle. Businesses have been adapting to inform consumers about the process—often there's a QR code with quick instructions for paying with crypto, and the attendants explain the process step by step.

Future trends and connected city

Whether in Florianópolis or any other city in Brazil, technological advancements in this sector are already significant. Study, learn, and choose the investments that make the most sense for you!

Florianópolis may further advance the concept of "local digital money." There are unofficial studies on the creation of municipal tokens that could be used in local commerce, encouraging the circular economy and rewarding residents for participating in social initiatives. The idea, in its early stages, still requires regulation and institutional support, but it holds the potential to increase public engagement with the digital ecosystem.