SFU evaluates accepting Bitcoin for some services

Simon Fraser University is exploring the feasibility of accepting payments made in Bitcoin, says Executive Director of Ancillary Services Mark McLaughlin. McLaughlin said that the institution is currently weighing the feasibility of installing a Bitcoin ATM in its bookstores as well as allowing Bitcoin payments for some of its dining services. “It would be about creating somewhat of an ecosystem on our campus. It’s one thing to accept Bitcoin. If there were some ATMs around the campuses, at least it’d make it easier for students to obtain Bitcoin,” he told the Georgia Straight. SFU is also considering hosting a Bitcoin expo. “Digital currencies are definitely here to stay,” McLaughlin said. “Other institutions maybe aren’t up to speed yet on digital currencies.” However, SFU will not accept Bitcoin for tuition payments. The British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) already has a Bitcoin ATM; however, institutions may be hesitant to embrace the cryptocurrency for commercial transactions due to its volatile value. Georgia Straight