- Bitget partners with Gelephu Mindfulness City Authority to seek a financial services license in GMC.
- The partnership focuses on regulatory approval, local presence, and ecosystem development.
- Bhutan aims to build a regulated digital asset hub through Gelephu Mindfulness City.
Bitget has partnered with the Gelephu Mindfulness City Authority (GMCA) to explore setting up a licensed digital asset business in Bhutan’s Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC).
The agreement allows Bitget to establish a legal presence in GMC, apply for a Financial Services License, and work with local authorities on regulation, operations, and ecosystem growth.
Bitget Seeks Financial Services License
Under the cooperation agreement, Bitget plans to set up a local company in Gelephu Mindfulness City and apply for a license to provide regulated digital asset services.
The exchange will work with the GMCA on regulations, operations, and efforts to grow the region’s digital asset ecosystem.
Bitget CEO Gracy Chen said Bhutan offers a mix of long-term vision, clean energy, and clear regulations. She added that Bitget hopes to support GMC’s digital finance growth through its experience, technology, and talent development.
Bhutan Expands Digital Asset Ambitions
The partnership comes as Bhutan gains recognition for its long-term approach to digital assets.
The Himalayan nation has used its abundant hydropower resources to support environmentally sustainable Bitcoin mining. The initiative forms part of a broader strategy to diversify the economy, create jobs, and retain skilled workers.
Gelephu Mindfulness City represents the next stage of that strategy. Established as a Special Administrative Region in southern Bhutan, GMC is being developed into an international financial and innovation hub. The city has dedicated regulations covering financial services and virtual assets.
Under the Financial Services Act 2025, companies conducting regulated financial or virtual asset activities in or from GMC must obtain a Financial Services License from the GFSO.
GMCA Aims to Build a Strong Crypto Ecosystem
Jigdrel Singay, Board Director of Gelephu Mindfulness City, said the city wants to create a world-class digital asset ecosystem focused on strong regulation, institutional standards, and long-term growth.
He said partners like Bitget can bring global experience while helping develop local skills and strengthen the financial ecosystem.
Bhutan has also shown its support for digital assets through its Bitcoin Development Pledge announced in December 2025, which highlights plans to include digital assets in its economic strategy with a focus on responsible regulation and institutional involvement.
Bitget Plans Local Hiring and Knowledge Transfer
Beyond securing regulatory approval, Bitget said it plans to establish a physical presence in Gelephu over time, including local hiring and office operations.
The exchange aims to contribute global exchange expertise, market infrastructure knowledge, and digital asset industry experience to support GMC’s long-term development.
Related: Tokenized Equities Soar 140% in 2026 as Bitget Tops Liquidity Rankings
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