Since early 2024, there has been a significant rise in the number of companies holding Bitcoin. Data shows that this phenomenon raises concerns among experts discussing its potential implications.
Record Levels of Corporate Bitcoin Ownership
Since early 2024, the number of corporations holding Bitcoin has surged by 226%. According to data from Bitwise and Bitcoin Treasuries, over 134 companies now collectively hold 1.13 million BTC, roughly 5.4% of the total supply. Major holders include companies such as Strategy (formerly MicroStrategy), Metaplanet, ProCap BTC, and Twenty-One Capital.
Experts' Concerns About the Sustainability of the Trend
Crypto educator Heidi and Versan Aljarrah from Black Swan Capitalist have raised questions about the long-term sustainability of this uptick. Aljarrah suggested that the influx of retail interest might serve as 'exit liquidity' for institutions preparing to sell off positions if markets decline. 'If there’s a reversal, it won’t be slow — it could get brutal,' Heidi warned in a recent post.
Opinions from Advocates and Opponents of Corporate Ownership
Analysts at Sygnum echo the risk, noting that a mass sell-off by institutions could heighten volatility. A sell by Strategy’s Michael Saylor — who controls 2.8% of BTC’s supply — was considered a potentially market-shaking event. However, some view the institutional rise as a safe haven from inflation, believing BTC is a long-term asset. Joe Burnett, Director of Bitcoin Strategy at Semler Scientific, predicts that Bitcoin will become the backbone of corporate finance over the next decade.
The increase in corporate Bitcoin ownership shows that the future of cryptocurrency remains uncertain. The debate continues on whether this marks the beginning of a financial revolution or a setup for a painful correction.
