US Bitcoin Holdings Surge to 207,189 Amid Major Seizures

In 2025, several countries have emerged as significant holders of Bitcoin, with the United States leading the pack. The US government possesses 207,189 Bitcoins, primarily acquired through law enforcement seizures. The largest seizure came from the 2016 Bitfinex hack, where 94,643 BTC were recovered. Other notable seizures include 69,370 BTC from a wallet linked to the Silk Road dark web marketplace in 2020, 12,267 BTC from Bitfinex, 9,800 BTC from James Zhong, and 2,818 BTC linked to another Bitfinex hack. These seizures, along with other smaller confiscations, make up the US's substantial Bitcoin holdings.

China, another major player, holds a sizable amount of Bitcoin, though the exact figure remains undisclosed. The Chinese government seized nearly 195,000 BTC from the PlusToken Ponzi scheme in 2020 and transferred the coins to the national treasury in 2023. While it is unclear whether China sold these Bitcoins, analysts speculate that the government may opt to create a Bitcoin reserve in the future.

The United Kingdom has also acquired Bitcoins through confiscation, primarily for money laundering enforcement. As of early 2025, the UK held 61,245 BTC, with law enforcement agencies playing a key role in its acquisition. The focus on money laundering led to the seizure of these Bitcoins, positioning the UK as a notable holder of the cryptocurrency.

Ukraine, despite the ongoing conflict with Russia, has received significant Bitcoin donations to fund its defense and humanitarian initiatives. As of the first quarter of 2025, the Ukrainian government possessed 46,351 BTC, making it the fourth-largest government holder of Bitcoin. These donations have been crucial in supporting the country's efforts during the conflict.

Bhutan, known for its cryptocurrency mining activities, has a Bitcoin reserve of about 13,029 BTC. The nation started mining Bitcoin in 2019 as part of a strategy to diversify its economy and support its primary industry, tourism. The state-owned Druk Holding & Investments mines between one and five Bit