U.S. Tops Global Rankings in Bitcoin Ownership, New Study Finds
May 20, 2025 — A new report has confirmed that the United States now leads the world in Bitcoin ownership, reflecting its growing dominance in the cryptocurrency sector both at the institutional and individual levels.
Government Holdings Reach Record Levels
The U.S. government is currently the world’s largest known holder of Bitcoin, with an estimated 198,012 BTC — worth roughly $18.3 billion. These assets were primarily acquired through legal seizures and have been consolidated into a newly formed Strategic Bitcoin Reserve. Established by President Donald Trump’s executive order in March 2025, the reserve is designed to serve as a long-term national store of value, with officials pledging not to sell the Bitcoin it holds.
Soaring Public Adoption
Bitcoin is also gaining popularity among American citizens. Nearly 28% of U.S. adults — around 65.7 million people — now own cryptocurrency, with Bitcoin remaining the most commonly held digital asset. This marks a dramatic increase from 15% in 2021, signaling greater mainstream acceptance and trust in crypto.
Comparison with Other Countries
Though the U.S. leads in total Bitcoin holdings, other nations have higher percentages of crypto users relative to their populations. The United Arab Emirates tops the list with 27.18% of its population owning crypto, followed by Vietnam at 20.87%. The United States ranks third in terms of per capita ownership, at 15.4%.
National Strategy and Market Influence
The Strategic Bitcoin Reserve is part of a broader initiative to position the U.S. at the forefront of digital finance. With its large holdings and strong infrastructure, the country aims to use Bitcoin as a hedge against inflation and a strategic economic asset. Market analysts believe this move will bolster long-term confidence and increase institutional interest in crypto.
Moreover, the U.S. plays a major role in shaping the global crypto landscape — accounting for 95% of public company Bitcoin holdings and 82% of all Bitcoin development funding.
Final Thoughts
With its massive reserves and growing number of private investors, the U.S. is solidifying its status as a global powerhouse in cryptocurrency. As digital assets become more deeply embedded in national and global financial systems, America’s leadership is likely to drive further adoption and innovation in the years ahe
