Czech National Bank (CNB) Governor Aleš Michl will introduce a $7.3 billion BTC acquisition plan on January 30, 2025. If approved, Bitcoin will account for 5% of the CNB’s $146 billion reserves, positioning the country as a crypto leader in Europe.
This decision comes amid growing institutional acceptance of Bitcoin as a strategic asset, similar to gold. Previously, CNB advisors dismissed Bitcoin as a reserve asset, but increasing market adoption has changed perspectives.
The U.S. is considering multiple models for a national Bitcoin reserve. President Donald Trump has backed the idea of stockpiling seized BTC and not selling it. Meanwhile, Senator Cynthia Lummis has proposed a 1-million BTC acquisition over five years, with holdings locked for 20 years.
Despite speculation that Trump would immediately sign the SBR proposal, his administration has opted for a more cautious approach. Instead, Trump has ordered the Digital Assets Subcommittee to submit reserve criteria by July 2025.
Meanwhile, states like Texas, Ohio, and Pennsylvania are pushing for their own state-level Bitcoin reserves, with Pennsylvania proposing a 10% budget allocation for BTC purchases.
Bitcoin reserves are gaining traction globally:
Countries like the UK, Ukraine, and China hold seized BTC, but do not yet classify them as national reserves. Reports suggest China may control over 190,000 BTC, though this remains unverified.
Leading firms are also stockpiling Bitcoin:
As governments and corporations accelerate Bitcoin accumulation, the race isn’t just about reserves. Countries are exploring BTC mining, crypto-friendly policies, and even legal adoption.
With Czech Republic’s move, the pressure is on for the U.S. and other nations to secure their position in the crypto economy before they fall behind.