-
Arkham Intelligence confirms the US government retains 198,000 BTC valued at $24 billion, dispelling rumors of an 85% Bitcoin sell-off.
-
The seized Bitcoin has remained unmoved for four months, with multiple agencies including the FBI and DOJ holding portions of the stash, not just the US Marshals.
-
According to Arkham, the government’s Bitcoin holdings surpass those of the UK and Bhutan, underscoring the scale of its digital asset portfolio.
Arkham reveals the US government still holds $24B in Bitcoin across multiple agencies, contradicting sell-off rumors and raising market impact concerns.
Arkham Intelligence Confirms US Government’s $24 Billion Bitcoin Holdings Remain Intact
Recent reports suggesting the US government sold off 85% of its Bitcoin reserves have been firmly rebutted by blockchain analytics firm Arkham Intelligence. Contrary to claims that only around 29,000 BTC remain, Arkham’s analysis shows the government holds approximately 198,000 BTC, worth about $24 billion at current market prices. This portfolio is distributed across various government agencies, including the FBI, DOJ, DEA, and US Attorney’s Offices, not solely the US Marshals Service as previously reported.
The seized Bitcoin, primarily obtained through criminal forfeitures, has not been moved for over four months, indicating a stable holding pattern. This revelation provides much-needed clarity amid circulating misinformation and highlights the government’s significant stake in the cryptocurrency ecosystem.
Implications of the US Government’s Bitcoin Holdings on Market Stability
The confirmation that the US government’s Bitcoin reserves remain largely untouched alleviates some immediate concerns about a sudden market sell-off. However, it also revives apprehensions regarding the potential impact if these assets were liquidated in the future. Market analysts note that the government’s BTC stash is substantially larger than those held by other nations, such as the UK ($7 billion) and Bhutan ($1.3 billion), positioning the US as a major institutional holder.
Investors and policymakers alike are closely monitoring these holdings, as any significant movement could influence Bitcoin’s price dynamics. The current stability suggests a cautious approach by authorities, but the possibility of future sales or strategic deployments remains a critical factor for market participants to consider.
Upcoming Report from Trump’s Crypto Working Group May Address Bitcoin Reserve Strategy
Adding to the evolving regulatory landscape, the President’s Working Group on Digital Assets, established by former President Donald Trump, is set to release its 180-day report on July 30. This report is anticipated to cover a range of topics including stablecoin regulation, token classification, and enforcement reforms following the enactment of the GENIUS Act.
Of particular interest is the potential discussion around the establishment of a strategic Bitcoin reserve funded by seized digital assets rather than new taxpayer money. Experts predict the report will advocate for a pragmatic regulatory framework that balances innovation with security, possibly endorsing USD-pegged stablecoins and enhanced international cooperation.
Monica Jasuja, Chief Expansion and Innovation Officer at Emerging Payments Association Asia, noted, “This isn’t necessarily about the US buying Bitcoin on the open market, but rather exploring the feasibility of establishing a federal crypto reserve, potentially drawing from seized digital assets already in government custody.”
Strategic Outlook for US Digital Asset Policy and Market Impact
The forthcoming report is expected to provide comprehensive recommendations that could shape the future of US digital asset policy. By addressing funding mechanisms for a Bitcoin reserve and clarifying regulatory approaches, the working group aims to position the United States as a leader in digital asset governance. This could foster increased market confidence and encourage broader institutional participation.
Stakeholders are encouraged to engage with the report’s findings upon release, as they will likely influence both regulatory frameworks and market sentiment in the months ahead.
Conclusion
Arkham Intelligence’s confirmation that the US government still holds a substantial Bitcoin reserve dispels recent rumors of a massive sell-off, underscoring the government’s significant role in the crypto market. While the assets remain dormant, the potential for future market impact persists, especially as regulatory developments unfold with the upcoming crypto working group report. Investors and observers should remain vigilant, as these dynamics will be pivotal in shaping the trajectory of Bitcoin and broader digital asset adoption.
