The US federal government will only buy Bitcoin as part of its recently announced strategic crypto reserve, a source told Crypto Intelligence News on Tuesday.
Over the weekend, Donald Trump announced via Truth Social that a number of cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, Ether, Solana, Cardano and Ripple, would form the US federal government’s crypto reserve.
This attracted criticism from some industry leaders, who believe only Bitcoin – which has been touted as a “digital gold” – should be included in the reserve.
However, a source in Washington has now clarified to Crypto Intelligence News that the federal government will only purchase Bitcoin.
As for the other cryptocurrencies, seized tokens will be added to the reserve, but the government will not actively purchase any XRP, ADA, ETH or SOL, the source explained.
How Market Initially Reacted
The announcement had an immediate impact on the cryptocurrency markets. Bitcoin experienced a surge of over 11%, reaching $94,164, while Ethereum saw a 13% increase, climbing to $2,516. XRP, Solana, and Cardano also reported significant gains, reflecting heightened investor confidence and anticipation of increased institutional adoption.
However, this bullish trend was short-lived. By March 3, 2025, the initial euphoria subsided, leading to a market correction. Bitcoin’s value retraced to approximately $86,000, and similar adjustments were observed across other major cryptocurrencies. This volatility underscores the market’s sensitivity to policy announcements and the inherent fluctuations within the crypto space.
Strategic Implications: Diversifying National Reserves
The creation of the Crypto Strategic Reserve represents a strategic diversification of national assets. Traditionally, reserves have comprised gold, foreign currencies, and other tangible assets. Incorporating cryptocurrencies introduces a new dimension, potentially enhancing the resilience and flexibility of national financial reserves.
Proponents argue that this move could solidify the U.S.’s leadership in digital asset innovation and provide a hedge against traditional market volatilities. Federico Brokate, head of U.S. business at 21Shares, remarked, “This move signals a shift toward active participation in the crypto economy by the U.S. government.”
Criticisms and Concerns
Despite the potential benefits, the initiative has faced criticism from various quarters. Economists like Stephen Cecchetti from Brandeis International Business School have labeled the idea as “absurd,” highlighting the risks associated with the volatility of cryptocurrencies.
There are also concerns about the lack of regulatory oversight in the crypto market, which could pose risks related to financial stability and illicit activities. Critics argue that the reserve might disproportionately benefit existing crypto holders and investors, leading to wealth disparities.
