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It’s a sign of the continuing global financial chaos that internet-based currency Bitcoin is entering the mainstream, having partnered with French financial institutions and agreeing to abide by the nation’s regulators. Despite security issues and its reputation for being used to buy all sorts of dodgy stuff without leaving a paper trail, Bitcoins are now being held up as a potential alternative to the Euro in countries like Cyprus.

Canadian economist and entrepreneur Jeff Berwick has co-founded a Bitcoin ATM, and plans to install the first machine in the troubled Mediterranean country. Apparently there are orders waiting in another thirty countries too, although a recent crash in Bitcoin value could see a few of those withdrawn pretty quickly…