Globalization of payment – Bitcoin ATMs at post offices

Abstract

Research background: As humanity evolves, so do the new payment options. Today, one of the most popular and powerful electronic money is Bitcoin. Over time, virtual currency is becoming one of the most widely available and used means of payment. Purpose of the article: The aim of this paper is to analyse ATMs in post offices, focusing on virtual currency ATMs. The paper also includes an analysis of available ATMs for virtual currencies and a comparison of their capabilities. Methods: We compare three most important ATM manufacturers and their most used models. It examines the use of those ATMs in post offices in Slovakia and abroad. Paper also analyses the attitude of customers of Slovak Post towards the deployment of virtual currency ATMs at its branches (on a sample of 400 respondents). Findings & Value added: In the Slovak Republic postal services are offered by several companies (19 out of 24 providers responded to our questionnaire). Slovak Post is leading provider of distribution, communication, and payment services in Slovakia. Czech Post is an example of country where virtual currency ATMs were introduced but subsequently withdrawn from post offices. In turn, Austrian Post Office is an example of a country where this system still operates and expands. While Slovak market still lacks such a service in the postal business, these trends will adapt over time. The virtual currency ATMs we have in Slovakia, are not operated by postal enterprises.