‘Bitcoin Jesus’ to give sermon at IMD, Lausanne

IMD Global Leaders Signature Series to feature Roger Ver

On 2 October 2014, the controversial Roger Ver known as the “Bitcoin Jesus” will descend on Lausanne to debate the future of the most well-known cyber currency with Arturo Bris, IMD Professor of Finance.

Bitcoin has been skyrocketing in popularity over the past few years with more and more companies accepting payment in the currency and bitcoin ATMs recently popping up in Manhattan and other cities around the world. However some experts say it is doomed due to its volatility (its value has fluctuated from USD $0.30 to $1135 since its creation since 2009) and its frequent association to illegal activity.

As part of its Global Leaders Signature Series, which has previously featured figures such as Bill Clinton and Warren Buffett, IMD is hosting millionaire bitcoin investor, former US citizen, convict, and anarchist Roger Ver at the upcoming event “Bitcoin: Boom or Bust?”

At the event Roger Ver will discuss his personal journey and share his views on bitcoin. Arturo Bris, Director of IMD’s World Competitiveness Center, will talk about the future of virtual currencies, what challenges they face and whether they pose a threat to traditional currencies. A discussion with the audience will follow the debate.

Should you invest in bitcoin? Is it the currency of the future? Are virtual currencies a risky gamble?

These are just some of the topics set to be debated as Roger Ver takes the stage at IMD on October 2, 2014.