WSJ Tech News Briefing How a Tiny Himalayan Country Became a Bitcoin Mining Paradise
23 snips
Jul 2, 2025 
Shan Li, South Asia correspondent for the Wall Street Journal, reveals how Bhutan transformed its economic struggles into a booming bitcoin mining industry after being hit by the pandemic. The conversation delves into Bhutan's unique focus on happiness, the advantages of its abundant hydropower for mining, and the efforts to blend tradition with technology. Additionally, the discussion touches on the ethical challenges and implications of AI chatbots, highlighting the ongoing pursuit for personality and engagement in technology.
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Bhutan's Unique Bitcoin Advantage
- Bhutan leveraged cheap hydropower from its mountainous rivers to make Bitcoin mining economically viable.
- The pandemic border closures forced them to innovate locally with limited outside help, accelerating their efforts.
DIY Bitcoin Mining Startup
- Bhutan's officials learned Bitcoin mining by Googling tutorials and watching YouTube videos.
- They physically set up the first mine themselves and remotely consulted experts due to border closures.
Bitcoin Stockpile's Economic Impact
- Bhutan accumulated Bitcoin worth 40% of its GDP, timing purchases before Bitcoin's price surge.
- They sold a small portion to fund civil servants' pay raises but primarily hold the stockpile.
