Also, if LargeCoin only sells to businesses the purchaser can get a VAT refund, at least, in Denmark (where I live), and I suspect also in most other EU countries. It seems almost like a waste of money to *not* purchase this as a business in the EU, where each member state is required to have a minimum VAT rate of 15%.
I'm assuming the prices quoted are ex VAT, thus there would be no refund. (25% VAT where I live)
However, the warranty needs to be sorted out if this is to be sold
in Europe. In my country the manufacturer warranty period is three years, where the first 6 months all faults are considered to be from the manufacturing by default (after that the consumer has to show they're not due to wear or negligence).
Also, as far as I can see, the "DRM" issue is moot. Those still believing it to be a problem need to read ttul's posts in more detail (or if we could just get all that info merged into the top post)
My answer to the thread poll would unfortunately be "no". Not because of the price (it's likely not worse compared to keeping my money in the bank) but because of the warranty. Us europeans just shake our heads at the US "90 day warranty" madness.
As VAT tax refunds work, in my country at least, you do pay the 25% VAT to start with, and then get a refund. So you do get a tax refund, but the original price is of course excluding VAT, so it won't cost you less than that (ie. you're just refunded the additional amount you paid).
Do you have a reference for the obligatory three year manufactur's warranty in your country? A reference that specifically mentions that this applies for business-to-business sales?
As I mentioned, it makes no sense to purchase this kind of unit as a private individual and increase ones cost by 25% (because of VAT). So laws governing consumer sales will not apply.
ttul, you have ignored
my previous question regarding selling your chips to OEMs who will then include them in smaller products targeted at the private individual. I have a feeling that the number of people willing to invest $500-$1000 in Bitcoin (through such a small device) can bring in a larger sum in total than the number individuals willing to invest $30,000. Can I get you to make a comment on this?