Bitcoin Holdings by Businesses Surge 154% Since 2024

Businesses have significantly increased their Bitcoin holdings, with a 154% rise since 2024. Over 2,000 companies are now using River’s platform to accumulate Bitcoin, highlighting a strategic shift towards cryptocurrency as a hedge against inflation and a means to enhance liquidity.

This surge in adoption is driven by several key factors. Companies are attracted to Bitcoin’s ability to hedge against inflation, its 24/7 liquidity, and the reduced risks associated with traditional banking systems. These advantages have made Bitcoin an appealing asset for businesses across various sectors, including finance, technology, real estate, and more.

The diversity of sectors adopting Bitcoin is notable. Finance and investment lead with 35.7% of adopters, followed by technology at 16.8%, and professional and consulting services at 16.5%. Real estate and construction account for 9.7%, while healthcare and energy, agriculture, and transportation each represent smaller but significant portions of the market. This broad adoption indicates that Bitcoin is no longer confined to high-tech industries but is being integrated into a wide range of business operations.

One example of this trend is BlueCotton, a T-shirt printing company that uses Bitcoin to support its operations. Additionally, the fast-food chain Steak ‘n Shake began accepting Bitcoin payments at all US locations on May 16, 2025, further demonstrating the practical applications of Bitcoin in everyday business transactions.

Businesses are also becoming the leading buyers of Bitcoin, surpassing governments and exchange-traded funds (ETFs). This shift is driven by the need to preserve value in the face of rising inflation and the devaluation of cash. River’s calculations show that a company investing 3% of its assets in Bitcoin earned a 20% inflation-adjusted return between 2021 and 2025, compared to a 19% loss for holding only cash and a 6.7% loss for money market funds.

Bitcoin’s scarcity, with a fixed supply of 21 million coins, makes it an effective long-term store of value. This characteristic has historically allowed Bitcoin to outperform inflation, providing a unique diversification benefit for businesses. For instance, the Argentine company Belo allocated 30% of its treasury to Bitcoin to combat the 211% inflation of the peso.

Moreover, Bitcoin’s 24/7 liquidity ensures that businesses have access to capital at any time, which proved invaluable during crises such as the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank in 2023. The ability to manage assets independently of traditional banking systems further reduces third-party risks, making Bitcoin an attractive option for businesses seeking to safeguard their financial stability.

According to data from BitcoinTreasuries, private and public companies have accumulated over 1 million BTC as of 2025. Standard Chartered predicts that the accumulation activity by companies, governments, and ETFs could drive Bitcoin to $120,000 in Q2 2025, underscoring the growing significance of Bitcoin in the global financial landscape.

In conclusion, the strategic adoption of Bitcoin by businesses is a clear indication of its evolving role as a financial asset. As more companies recognize the benefits of Bitcoin in hedging against inflation and enhancing liquidity, its integration into business strategies is likely to continue, potentially reshaping the financial landscape globally.