Understanding the Unbound Fund and Its Unique Proposition
What is the Unbound Fund?
The Unbound Fund is an innovative investment vehicle that offers exposure to Bitcoin while aligning with Portugal’s Golden Visa program. Investors can participate by depositing fiat currency into the fund and receiving Fund Units in return. The fund then invests the raised capital into a local research company, Unbound Research Lda., which gains exposure to Bitcoin via BlackRock ETFs. This structure ensures a high level of security and reliability.
How the Fund Leverages Bitcoin
The Unbound Fund leverages Bitcoin’s unique properties as a store of value, portfolio diversifier, and potential hedge against inflation. Bitcoin’s decentralized nature makes it resistant to devaluation caused by excessive government spending and monetary stimulus. By investing in Bitcoin through the Unbound Fund, investors can benefit from its long-term growth potential and financial innovation.
Regulatory Compliance and Security Measures
The Unbound Fund is structured transparently and regulated to provide investors with peace of mind. It undergoes rigorous audits conducted by BDO, one of the top five global audit and consulting networks. The fund’s depository bank offers cryptocurrency custody solutions, and the Portuguese financial authority (CMVM) oversees and regulates the fund. This governance structure ensures a balanced and well-informed decision-making process, making the Unbound Fund a secure and reliable way to gain exposure to Bitcoin while meeting the requirements of Portugal’s Golden Visa program.
The Unbound Fund offers a unique opportunity to obtain Portuguese/EU citizenship through Bitcoin investment, providing exposure to Bitcoin while ensuring regulatory compliance and security.
The Portugal Golden Visa Program: A Gateway to EU Citizenship
Overview of the Golden Visa Program
The Golden Visa Program of Portugal offers residency to internationals who contribute financially to the country and meet specific requirements. Since its inception in 2012, over 12,700 golden visas have been granted, benefiting nationals from countries like China, Brazil, the United States, Türkiye, and South Africa.
Eligibility Criteria for Investors
To be eligible for the Golden Visa Program, investors must meet one of the following criteria:
Investment in research and developments
Cultural Heritage Donation
Investment in funds or venture capital funds
Recently, the government introduced the Residence Permits for Social Investment option, allowing foreigners to obtain residency by investing in reception facilities and infrastructure and in immigrant integration projects.
Benefits of the Golden Visa Program
The Golden Visa Program offers several benefits, including:
Residency in Portugal: Investors and their families can live in Portugal.
Freedom of Movement: Visa-free travel within the Schengen Area.
Path to Citizenship: After five years, investors can apply for Portuguese citizenship.
The Golden Visa Program is a strategic and technical option for gaining European citizenship, providing a mutually beneficial way for investors and Portugal.
The program not only enhances mobility and freedom but also offers a high quality of life in Portugal, making it an attractive option for many investors.
Investment Strategy: How Bitcoin Residency Works
Indirect Bitcoin Holdings Explained
The Unbound Fund offers a unique way to gain Portuguese citizenship by indirectly holding Bitcoin. Investors need to hold Bitcoin worth at least 500,000 euros through the fund. This indirect approach means the fund invests in companies that maintain a 100% passive Bitcoin position, rather than directly holding the cryptocurrency themselves.
Investment in BlackRock ETFs
To enhance security and diversify the investment portfolio, the Unbound Fund also invests in specific BlackRock exchange-traded funds (ETFs). These ETFs provide a layer of protection and simplicity, minimizing individual security risks associated with holding Bitcoin directly.
Long-term Holding vs. Speculative Trading
The fund’s strategy focuses on long-term holding instead of speculative trading. This approach aims to provide stability and reduce the risks associated with market volatility. By maintaining a passive Bitcoin position, the fund avoids the pitfalls of trying to time the market.
The Unbound Fund’s strategy is centered around long-term holding, targeting firms with a 100% passive Bitcoin position. This approach minimizes risks and enhances security for investors.
Financial and Lifestyle Benefits of Bitcoin Residency
Portfolio Diversification
Investing in Bitcoin through the Unbound Fund allows you to diversify your portfolio. Traditional assets like stocks and bonds can be complemented by Bitcoin’s potential for high returns. This diversification can help balance risks and rewards, making your investment strategy more robust.
Hedging Against Inflation
Bitcoin is often seen as a hedge against inflation. Unlike fiat currencies, which can be printed indefinitely, Bitcoin has a capped supply of 21 million coins. This scarcity can protect your wealth from the eroding effects of inflation, offering a unique opportunity to preserve value over time.
Enhanced Mobility and Freedom
By investing in the Unbound Fund, you not only gain exposure to Bitcoin but also unlock the door to European residency and citizenship. This enhanced mobility allows you to live, work, and travel freely within the EU, providing a significant lifestyle upgrade. The ability to move across borders with ease is a valuable benefit in today’s globalized world.
Investing in this regulated fund, investors can gain exposure to the world’s leading cryptocurrency while opening the door to European residency and citizenship.
Steps to Secure Portuguese Citizenship Through Bitcoin Investment
Initial Investment Requirements
To start, you need to make an initial investment of at least €500,000 (about $542,000) in the Unbound Fund. This fund focuses on companies with 100% passive Bitcoin holdings and also invests in BlackRock exchange-traded funds (ETFs) for added security and simplicity.
Application Process
Prepare Documentation: Gather all necessary documents, including proof of investment, identification, and any other required paperwork.
Submit Application: Apply for the Portugal Golden Residence Permit Program through the official channels, providing all required documentation.
Wait for Approval: The approval process may take several months, during which your application will be reviewed by Portuguese authorities.
Receive Residence Permit: Once approved, you will receive a residence permit, allowing you to live and work in Portugal.
Timeline and Milestones
Initial Investment: Immediately upon deciding to pursue this pathway.
Application Submission: Within the first month after making the investment.
Approval Period: Typically takes 3-6 months.
Residence Permit Issuance: Upon approval, usually within a month.
By leveraging Bitcoin investments, you can gain not just financial returns but also the freedom to live and work in Portugal, a country with a favorable regulatory environment and strong financial infrastructure.
Strategic Advantages of Portugal for Bitcoin Investors
Favorable Regulatory Environment
Portugal has a favorable regulatory environment that is very attractive to Bitcoin investors. The country has reintroduced tax breaks and the Golden Visa program to attract skilled professionals and digital nomads. This initiative aims to bolster the economy, expand the tax base, and address societal challenges, including an aging population.
Strong Financial Infrastructure
Portugal boasts a strong financial infrastructure, making it an ideal location for Bitcoin investments. The country has a well-established banking system and a growing fintech sector, which provides a solid foundation for cryptocurrency transactions and investments.
Quality of Life in Portugal
The quality of life in Portugal is another significant advantage for Bitcoin investors. The country offers a high standard of living, with excellent healthcare, education, and a pleasant climate. Additionally, Portugal is known for its rich culture, beautiful landscapes, and friendly people, making it an attractive place to live and invest.
Portugal’s strategic and technical benefits make it an ideal country for Bitcoin investments, offering both financial and lifestyle advantages.
Future Prospects and Broader Implications
Potential for Expansion
The Unbound Fund’s approach to leveraging Bitcoin for EU citizenship could set a precedent for similar initiatives in other countries. As more nations recognize the benefits of integrating digital assets with residency programs, we might see a broader adoption of such schemes. This could lead to a more inclusive and diverse range of investment opportunities for global investors.
Impact on Global Mobility
Utilizing Bitcoin for international movement is mutually advantageous. It offers a unique chance for investors to gain enhanced mobility and legal status within the European Union. This innovative link between Bitcoin investments and Portuguese citizenship underscores a broader trend of integrating digital assets with traditional financial and legal systems.
Integration of Digital Assets with Immigration Policies
As the market adjusts, both investors and regulatory bodies will need to navigate this new frontier with caution and strategic foresight. The evolving landscape of cryptocurrency investment and residency options suggests a growing trend towards combining digital assets with tangible benefits, such as enhanced mobility and legal status within the European Union.
The innovative link between Bitcoin investments and Portuguese citizenship underscores a broader trend of integrating digital assets with traditional financial and legal systems.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Unbound Fund?
The Unbound Fund is an investment fund that allows people to gain exposure to Bitcoin while also providing a pathway to European residency and citizenship, specifically through Portugal’s Golden Visa program.
How does the Unbound Fund use Bitcoin for residency?
By investing €500,000 (about $542,000) in the Unbound Fund, investors can qualify for Portugal’s Golden Visa program. The fund invests in companies with passive Bitcoin holdings and BlackRock ETFs to ensure security and simplicity.
What are the benefits of the Portugal Golden Visa program?
The Portugal Golden Visa program offers residency in Portugal, which can lead to European Union citizenship. Benefits include the ability to live, work, and study in Portugal, as well as travel freely within the Schengen Area.
Is the Unbound Fund regulated?
Yes, the Unbound Fund is regulated and follows strict governance and security measures. It undergoes audits by BDO and is overseen by the Portuguese financial authority (CMVM).
What is the minimum investment required for the Unbound Fund?
The minimum investment required to participate in the Unbound Fund and qualify for the Portugal Golden Visa program is €500,000 (approximately $542,000).
How can I start my investment journey with the Unbound Fund?
To start your investment journey with the Unbound Fund, you can contact the fund advisor at hi@unboundcap.com for more information and guidance on the application process.
