World governments now hold 517,296 Bitcoin worth $61 billion

The United States has emerged as the leader in national Bitcoin holdings, securing 198,012 BTC worth $24 billion according to verified treasury disclosures and blockchain records. China follows closely with 194,000 BTC valued at $22.97 billion. This narrow gap highlights how major powers now see Bitcoin as a strategic reserve asset.

The race reflects a global shift. Countries aren’t just buying Bitcoin; they’re officially declaring it part of their financial strategy. The U.S. lead, signals confidence in cryptocurrency as a long-term store of value. China’s massive reserve achieved without public filings suggests equally serious intent. Together, these superpowers control nearly 0.95% of Bitcoin’s total supply.

Beyond the top two, a diverse group of nations is entering the arena. The United Kingdom holds 61,245 BTC ($7.25 billion), documented through formal treasury filings. Ukraine has quietly amassed 46,351 BTC ($5.49 billion), though its government hasn’t detailed acquisition methods. This European activity underscores Bitcoin’s growing legitimacy among traditional economies.

Smaller nations are making outsized moves. Bhutan, the Himalayan kingdom, holds 11,286 BTC ($1.34 billion). For a country with a GDP under $3 billion, this represents a bold economic diversification play. Analysts suggest Bhutan likely mined its coins using abundant hydropower. a sustainable approach gaining traction globally.

El Salvador remains a pioneer. As the first country to adopt Bitcoin as legal tender, it holds 6,246 BTC ($740 million) in verified national reserves. Despite market volatility, President Nayib Bukele reaffirmed his commitment, stating the country buys "one Bitcoin every day" via its treasury.

Finland (90 BTC) and Georgia (66 BTC) demonstrate cautious state-level experimentation. Their modest holdings act as pilot programs for broader adoption.

Then comes Roswell, New Mexico an unexpected player. The city holds just 0.2 BTC ($23,685) in municipal reserves. While economically insignificant, it symbolizes Bitcoin’s cultural penetration.

Germany’s zero holdings stand in stark contrast. Europe’s largest economy appears hesitant, reflecting lingering institutional skepticism despite growing EU crypto regulation.

Government Bitcoin Holdings 2025
<table>
  <thead>
    <tr>
      <th>Country</th>
      <th>Status</th>
      <th>Bitcoin Held</th>
      <th>Value (USD)</th>
      <th>% of Total Supply</th>
    </tr>
  </thead>
  <tbody>
    <tr><td>USA</td><td>Filing</td><td>198,012</td><td>$23.45 B</td><td>0.943%</td></tr>
    <tr><td>China</td><td>–</td><td>194,000</td><td>$22.97 B</td><td>0.924%</td></tr>
    <tr><td>UK</td><td>Filing</td><td>61,245</td><td>$7.25 B</td><td>0.292%</td></tr>
    <tr><td>Ukraine</td><td>–</td><td>46,351</td><td>$5.49 B</td><td>0.221%</td></tr>
    <tr><td>Bhutan</td><td>–</td><td>11,286</td><td>$1.34 B</td><td>0.054%</td></tr>
    <tr><td>El Salvador</td><td>Filing</td><td>6,246</td><td>$739.70 M</td><td>0.03%</td></tr>
    <tr><td>Finland</td><td>Filing</td><td>90</td><td>$10.66 M</td><td>0.0%</td></tr>
    <tr><td>Georgia</td><td>–</td><td>66</td><td>$7.82 M</td><td>0.0%</td></tr>
    <tr><td>Roswell, New Mexico</td><td>Filing</td><td>0.2</td><td>$23,685</td><td>0.0%</td></tr>
    <tr><td>Germany</td><td>–</td><td>0.0</td><td>$0</td><td>0.0%</td></tr>
  </tbody>
  <tfoot>
    <tr>
      <td><strong>Totals:</strong></td>
      <td>–</td>
      <td>517,296</td>
      <td>$61,261,896,214</td>
      <td>2.463%</td>
    </tr>
  </tfoot>
</table>

Why Governments Are Buying

Nations cite multiple reasons for adding Bitcoin to reserves. Diversification tops the list. With traditional assets like bonds yielding low returns, Bitcoin offers growth potential. Countries like El Salvador also see it as a tool for financial inclusion, enabling remittances without high fees.

Geopolitics plays a role too. Bitcoin provides an alternative to U.S. dollar-dominated systems. China’s accumulation aligns with its push for financial independence, while Bhutan leverages it to stabilize its economy.

How They Acquire Bitcoin

The U.S. and UK obtained most coins from seizures in criminal investigations. Ukraine likely received donations during its war with Russia. Bhutan mined coins sustainably. El Salvador buys directly through treasury programs.

The Global Picture

Collectively, these nations hold 517,296 BTC worth $61.26 billion about 2.46% of Bitcoin’s capped 21 million supply. This matters because:

1. Scarcity Pressure: Large state purchases reduce available supply, potentially driving prices up.
2. Market Validation: Sovereign participation legitimizes Bitcoin for institutional investors.
3. New Competition: Nations now compete not just militarily or economically, but in crypto reserves.

What’s Next?

Experts predict more countries will join. "Saudi Arabia and Singapore are exploring sovereign holdings," notes finance professor Dr. Elena Torres.

As of today, national Bitcoin reserves are no longer theoretical, they’re reshaping global finance. With every coin added, countries signal their belief in a digital future.