Ten years ago, if you told someone El Salvador would become a global hub for Bitcoin and foreign capital—let alone a safe place to visit—they’d laugh you out of the room.

Back then, it was known for gang violence, lawlessness, and political instability—not crypto or investment opportunity.

But things have changed.

As I said on last week’s episode of the Expat Money Show, President Nayib Bukele’s leadership isn’t just transforming El Salvador; it’s setting an example for what happens when a country embraces radical reforms and business-friendly policies without asking permission.

Bukele is doing what few leaders have the courage to do: take bold, unapologetic action in the name of financial stability and economic freedom. 

And just recently, the country passed a new Investment Banking Law that allows investment banks to hold Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies on their balance sheets, as well as to offer crypto-related services to select investors.

In short, they’re not waiting for the financial world to shift. They’re laying the foundation now.

As I read the news, I couldn’t help but think of Field of Dreams, my dad’s favourite movie when I was a kid, and a film I’ve seen more times than I can count.

There’s a famous line in it: “If you build it, he will come.”

Funny thing is, most people remember it as “If you build it, they will come…”

Well, in the case of El Salvador, that common misquote fits perfectly.

Because that’s exactly what Bukele is doing: building something big and bold, with the confidence that they—freedom-minded entrepreneurs and investors—will come.

The message is loud and clear: if you believe in Bitcoin, in decentralization, in a financial system that respects privacy and property rights, El Salvador welcomes you with open arms.

To be clear, this doesn’t mean that I’m ready to recommend El Salvador as a Plan-B destination just yet.

Yes, under Bukele, El Salvador has become one of the safest countries in Latin America. 

But the tax system, business regulations, and residency programs still have a long way to go before I would consider El Salvador as part of a solid Plan-B. 

While it’s moving in the right direction, it falls well short of other countries in the region, like Paraguay or especially Panama, which offers much stronger investment infrastructure, a much better tax situation, and straightforward residency programs.

That said, I’m watching El Salvador very closely.

If the country continues down this path under Bukele, it may be worth a serious look in due time.

Speak soon,

Mikkel

P.S. If you missed this past Saturday’s presentation, where I unveiled my new project in Paraguay, check out the replay now while it’s still available. Paraguay may fly under the radar for now, but this won’t last long. Learn how you can get it on the ground before the rest of the world catches on. Check out the replay, available for a limited time at expatmoney.com/webinar.

Enjoying this email Newsletter? Feel free to forward it and share it with your friends and family to subscribe. The more good, like-minded people we have in our community, the stronger we will be!

No advice: This newsletter, EMS Pulse®, contains information about going offshore and being an expat. The information is not advice and should not be treated as advice. You must not rely on the information in the newsletter as an alternative to legal, financial, or tax advice from an appropriately licensed professional. If you have any specific questions about any such matter, you should consult an appropriately licensed professional. You should never delay seeking legal advice, disregard legal advice, or commence or discontinue any legal action because of information in the EMS Pulse® newsletter or in our work at Expat Money®. Limited warranties: Whilst we endeavour to ensure that the information in the newsletter is correct, we do not warrant or represent its completeness or accuracy. To the maximum extent permitted by applicable law, we exclude all representations, warranties and conditions relating to this newsletter or our work at Expat Money®. We will not be held liable for any decisions you decide to make as the consumer of this content. Law and jurisdiction: This disclaimer shall be governed by and construed in accordance with Panama Law. Any disputes relating to this disclaimer shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of Panama. This message is sent to you because your email address is on our subscribers' list. If you are not interested in receiving more emails like this one, just hit unsubscribe at the bottom of this email.