Bitcoin News Today: Public Companies Shift to Active Bitcoin Strategies to Boost Returns

Public companies are increasingly shifting away from simply holding Bitcoin passively and are instead pursuing active strategies to generate returns. Over 160 listed firms now hold more than 300,000 Bitcoin, and many are exploring methods such as lending, staking, options trading, and even investing in NFTs to maximize value from their crypto holdings. This marks a departure from the traditional “HODL” strategy, driven largely by pressure from shareholders for more tangible returns [1].

Among the most notable examples is DDC Enterprise, an Asian food company that reversed its stock split, invested heavily in Bitcoin, and partnered with QCP Capital to generate income. The move led to an over 800% surge in its stock price. QCP founder Darius Sit emphasized bringing traditional risk-managed yield strategies into the crypto space. Similarly, SharpLink Gaming, one of the larger Ethereum holders, is carefully building a risk management plan, with operations vice president John Chard noting the importance of a measured approach.

Other companies are taking more aggressive measures. BSTR, known as the Bitcoin Standard Treasury Company, is considering writing put options to acquire Bitcoin at a discount. GameSquare Holdings recently purchased a $5 million CryptoPunk NFT with the goal of licensing it to generate income, aiming for returns between 6% and 10%. Meanwhile, Twenty One Capital is evaluating whether to lend U.S. dollars using Bitcoin as collateral [1].

Despite the growing interest, risk management remains a critical concern. With Bitcoin itself offering no yield, companies must rely on external strategies to generate returns, often through lending, options, or staking. Ether Machine chairman Andrew Keys has established a dedicated risk management team to oversee these efforts. However, skepticism persists. Galaxy Digital’s Chris Rhine warned that claims of high yield—such as 5% or 10%—should be scrutinized by investors. The collapse of companies like Terra, Celsius, and FTX in 2022, driven by risky strategies and unstable collateral, serves as a cautionary tale [1].

Some companies are beginning to test more advanced financial instruments. MARA Holdings is using options to boost income, while CleanSpark is exploring derivatives to profit from Bitcoin’s price volatility. CFO Gary Vecchiarelli stated that the company plans to expand into “more exotic types of derivatives,” aiming to turn volatility into consistent returns [1].

Not all companies are jumping on the yield-generating bandwagon. Michael Saylor’s Strategy has so far focused on long-term accumulation and has not yet pursued active yield strategies. According to AirdropAlert.com founder Morten Christensen, Saylor’s approach is rooted in digital scarcity, and wrapping Bitcoin in complex financial instruments may undermine its core value. However, the company has not ruled out future shifts, as noted in SEC filings [1].

As companies continue to experiment with new methods, the landscape is evolving rapidly. The traditional ethos of Bitcoin as a rebellion against Wall Street is increasingly giving way to the demands of quarterly earnings and executive performance. While innovation brings opportunities, it also introduces new risks—ones that companies must navigate carefully as they seek to unlock value from their crypto assets [1].

Source: [1] Public companies are moving away from holding Bitcoin passively https://coinmarketcap.com/community/articles/688a4179383a7848b877840b/