MIAMI, FL / ACCESSWIRE / November 7, 2023 / Athena Bitcoin Global (OTC PINK:ABIT) a leading international operator of bitcoin ATMs and digital asset fintech solutions and Genesis Coin Inc., the first and largest white-label Bitcoin ATM software platform, announced today they have enabled Lightning Network technology across their technology infrastructure in El Salvador and Latin America. The incorporation of Lightning Network as an option is a major enhancement for customers using Athena Bitcoin and Chivo-branded kiosks in El Salvador and Latin America providing faster withdrawals and minimizing fees.

The upgrade will be rolled out progressively starting with Chivo Bitcoin ATMs in El Salvador. One hundred machines will be Lightning Network-enabled by the end of December, 2023 and the remaining kiosks will follow in the first quarter of 2024. Chivo is the official Bitcoin wallet of the Salvadoran government, which Athena Bitcoin supports through its technology and infrastructure. In addition, Athena Bitcoin will extend this technology to its own branded machines in El Salvador and throughout Latin America, providing its customers across the region the opportunity to enjoy faster and more efficient transactions.

“We are excited to introduce this valuable upgrade for our customers and proud to support continued Bitcoin adoption in El Salvador and globally,” noted Matias Goldenhorn, CEO of Athena Bitcoin Global. “Athena Bitcoin and Genesis Coin both leverage technology and deep experience to further empower our customers and to expand opportunities in remittances and cross-border payments as well,” he continued.

Doug Carillo, President and Chief Strategist of Genesis Coin added, “Genesis Coin pioneered the Bitcoin ATM industry with the first scalable software platform for operators. We’re excited to work with Athena Bitcoin in implementing Lightning Network in cross border payments.” He continued, “This is a historical moment and major advancement for all stakeholders. We’re always looking for ways to innovate and apply Bitcoin as a tool for financial empowerment in communities all over the world. The low cost of Lightning transactions will allow Salvadorans to keep more money in their pocket and enable smaller and potentially more frequent transactions.”