In 2025, it won't be retailers or ETFs that will be the most bitcoin buy — it’s the companies themselves. My analysis shows that the corporate market is driving the largest wave of bitcoin purchases this year. Companies hold more than 157.000 bitcoins on their balance sheets, worth about $16 billion. This shows that companies are taking bitcoin seriously.
Much of this growth is due to the vision of Michael Saylor, founder of MicroStrategy. His unwavering belief in bitcoin as a valuable asset has not only transformed his own company, but is inspiring others to take the plunge. It’s not just tech giants taking the plunge; the number of companies across industries is growing steadily. Many organizations are connecting with bitcoin and are convinced it can transform their future.
Besides companies, it is mainly Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) that are now getting into the action, with a combined purchase of 49.000 bitcoins (about 5 billion dollars). Governments are cautiously joining in, adding about 19.000 bitcoins to their reserves. It is notable that retailers have sold bitcoins net this year, accounting for a decline of 247.000 bitcoins in the hands of private investors. This could indicate that many small investors are taking profits or are simply being outcompeted by larger players.
The majority of corporate purchases come from financial institutions and investment firms, accounting for 35,7% of the total. Technology companies follow with 16,8%, and consulting firms with 16,5%. Sectors such as real estate, healthcare, energy, agriculture and transportation also appear to be quietly piling up bitcoin.
It’s not just established names that are discovering bitcoin; 2025 has also brought some interesting newcomers. Video platform Rumble bought its first bitcoin in March, and Hong Kong construction company Ming Shing and investment firm HK Asia Holdings Limited have also recently gotten in on the act. A report shows that in the first quarter alone, at least 12 listed companies made their first bitcoin purchase, bringing total purchases by listed companies to more than 95.000 bitcoins — a 16% increase.
What was once a niche investment for tech enthusiasts and adventurous investors is quickly turning into a strategic move for companies worldwide. If this trend continues, 2025 could be the year that bitcoin takes its rightful place on corporate balance sheets.
Who will be the biggest buyers of bitcoin in 2025?
Corporates dominate bitcoin purchases, with financial institutions and investment firms taking the lead.
What is the role of ETFs in today's market?
ETFs have recently bought a significant amount of bitcoin, accounting for nearly $5 billion in purchases over the past year.
Why are retailers selling their bitcoins now?
Retailers appear to be selling at the moment, possibly to take profits or because they are being overtaken by larger investors who dominate the market.