Web3 and Blockchain technology

In 2014, Ethereum, known for its decentralized software platform enabling smart contracts and distributed applications, established its base in Zug within the Greater Zurich Area. The decision was influenced by Switzerland's strategic European position, Zug's openness to the crypto sector, and the country's inherent decentralized structure. This move highlights the Greater Zurich Area's emergence as a hotspot for blockchain enterprises.

Cardano Foundation, distinguished for its focus on research-driven blockchain development, set its foundation in Zug, in the heart of the Greater Zurich Area, in 2016. Their choice was shaped by Switzerland's deep-rooted decentralized tradition, the emergence of the Crypto Valley as a notable blockchain hub, and the nation's clear regulatory framework promoting transparency. This strategic alignment further cements the Greater Zurich Area's influential role in the blockchain domain.

In 2018, DFINITY, renowned for its visionary approach to building a decentralized internet computer, expanded its operations to Zurich. With its foundation previously established in Zug's Crypto Valley, this strategic move to Zurich leveraged the deep talent pool and expertise, notably from the renowned ETH Zurich. Founder Dominic Williams identified Zurich as DFINITY's primary hub for European operations, and the company's presence has grown robustly in the city since then.

Ledger, the esteemed French blockchain firm producing advanced security and storage solutions for cryptocurrencies, anchored itself in Zurich in 2021. Sébastien Badault, Ledger's Vice President, highlights Switzerland's unique blend of "stability and openness" as a core reason for their expansion. Furthermore, the region's mature and dynamic crypto ecosystem was pivotal in their decision. With an initial emphasis on corporate clientele, Ledger has plans to broaden its consumer outreach in the region.

Tezos, originating from San Francisco in 2014, stands out with its unique approach, allowing for updates to its blockchain system based on stakeholder consensus. In 2018, marking a significant stride in its growth, Tezos set up the Tezos Foundation in Zug. This move was aimed at bolstering the utilization and persistent enhancement of its blockchain platform. Emphasizing a community-centric ethos, the foundation is committed to fostering a fully decentralized direction for the platform's evolution.

Xapo, a leading global bitcoin custodian, established its headquarters in Zug. Originally from the U.S., the company's relocation to Switzerland was driven by the country's longstanding traditions of stability and protection. Wences Casares, CEO of Xapo, attributes the decision not only to Switzerland's reputation but also to its versatile workforce adept in multiple currencies. This commitment was further underscored in 2017 when the Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority (FINMA) endorsed Xapo's operations, highlighting Switzerland's progressive approach to fintech.

Founded in Zurich in 2018 by Hany Rashwan and Ophelia Snyder, 21.co set out with a mission to demystify crypto — aiming to create an access so intuitive that even their parents could understand. Their innovation led to the establishment of Onyx, their unique operating system. With a presence spanning from Zug to New York and a company valuation at approximately $2 billion, 21.co proudly stands as Switzerland's premier crypto unicorn.

Emerging from Zug, Safe began its journey as a spin-off from Gnosis and has since carved its own identity in the cryptocurrency world. Dedicated to providing decentralized asset management and custody protocols, they've made notable strides in simplifying user interaction with the digital finance sphere. Their commitment to innovation and user-centric design has not gone unnoticed, with Safe being recognized as a crypto unicorn, boasting a valuation of over $1 billion.

Based in Zug in the Greater Zurich Area, the Web3 Foundation was founded in 2017 to advance the decentralized web, known as Web3. They've funded over 300 Web3 projects across the globe, ranging from core infrastructure to digital wallets. Among their notable contributions, Polkadot is a highlight, a blockchain designed to interlink various other blockchains for smooth communication.