In a surprising but inspiring move, Richard Teng, the new CEO of Binance — the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchange — recently visited the Kingdom of Bhutan. His visit marks another chapter in Bhutan’s bold plan to blend ancient wisdom with modern innovation, using blockchain technology and crypto to boost what the country famously calls its “Gross National Happiness” (GNH).
A Kingdom Like No Other
Nestled in the Himalayas, Bhutan is known for measuring its success not by GDP alone, but by the collective well-being of its people. The concept of Gross National Happiness has guided national policy for decades, balancing economic growth with cultural preservation, environmental sustainability, and good governance.
But Bhutan is not living in the past — far from it. In recent years, the country has launched ambitious digital projects, including Bhutan’s national blockchain initiative and plans for crypto mining powered by its abundant clean hydroelectric energy.
Binance Joins Bhutan’s Digital Journey
During his visit, Teng met with government officials and local innovators to discuss how Binance can help Bhutan expand access to crypto and blockchain infrastructure. The goal is clear: use this technology to create new economic opportunities, attract investment, empower young entrepreneurs, and connect Bhutan more deeply with the global digital economy.
Binance has pledged to support Bhutan in areas like crypto education, digital asset regulation, and building a blockchain talent pipeline. For a small, landlocked nation with limited traditional industries, crypto could be a powerful equalizer — giving Bhutanese people more tools to grow wealth, do business internationally, and future-proof their economy.
Crypto as a Happiness Multiplier?
Of course, embracing crypto comes with risks — volatility, regulation, and security challenges are real. But for Bhutan, the promise seems to outweigh the pitfalls. By carefully integrating crypto into its national vision, Bhutan hopes digital finance can help close gaps in access to capital, encourage innovation, and lift living standards — all while staying true to its core value: happiness first.
Teng’s visit sends a strong signal that the crypto industry sees Bhutan as more than just a remote mountain kingdom. It sees Bhutan as a trailblazer — a country unafraid to try new ideas to build a better, happier future.
What’s Next
As Bhutan explores its next steps, the world will be watching. Can this tiny Himalayan kingdom show that crypto, when guided by wisdom and purpose, can be a force for good?
One thing is certain: in Bhutan, happiness is still the ultimate goal — and now, crypto may have a role in making it grow.