I understand some advantages, but given the value fluctuation wouldn't investing actual cash be kinda risky? Unless you bought bitcoins for insanely cheap of course, then it'd just be like the stock market and you could return a decent profit
When you mine for bitcoins you are also investing actual cash in electricity and perhaps hardware.
Last month a bitcoin was worth $30. If that price is reached again during august, you will double the amount invested right now. Some people may think that it is worth a shot. But yes, butcoins are a high risk investment right now.
But besides monetary value, he could use them to buy stuff online anonymously or to transfer money to a distant friend.
intersango.com in EU (euros)
Their orderbook shows very little activity... Do you usually trade there?