Harvard University has significantly changed its stance on Bitcoin, investing $116.7 million in ETFs for the cryptocurrency. This marks a clear turnaround from previous skepticism among academics.
Harvard's Historical Opinion on Bitcoin
During Bitcoin's 2017 peak, when its price first reached $20,000, there was an optimistic evaluation among experts. However, following the crash in 2018, when the price fell below $4,000, Professor Kenneth Rogoff from Harvard expressed skepticism about Bitcoin’s dollar prospects. He stated: > "I believe that if we fast forward 10 years, Bitcoin will be worth a mere fraction of its current price… I think the probability of it hitting $100 is much higher than $100,000 in ten years."
Why Harvard Invested in Bitcoin in 2025
Today, Bitcoin valuations exceed $118,000, and Harvard invested $116.7 million in Bitcoin ETFs. The university now holds 1.9 million shares of IBIT, marking a significant change from its previous skepticism. In its recent financial maneuvers, Harvard's investment in Bitcoin exceeds even its investments in major tech firms such as Nvidia and Google.
Wider Trend Among Elite Institutions
Harvard’s change in stance on Bitcoin reflects a broader trend in investments among other elite institutions, such as Brown University, which has amassed $13 billion in ETFs. This indicates a growing interest among major educational organizations in cryptocurrencies as strategic financial assets.
Harvard's shift in opinion on Bitcoin highlights the growing acceptance of cryptocurrencies in academic circles and the changing investment strategies of elite institutions. This marks a turning point in the financial world towards digital currencies.
