U.S. Government Denies Sale of Forfeited Samourai Wallet Bitcoin, Says BTC Will Remain in Strategic Bitcoin Reserve

The U.S. government has denied reports that it plans to sell Bitcoin seized from the Samourai Wallet. The BTC, which was forfeited following a federal investigation, will remain in the strategic Bitcoin reserve.

The decision aligns with growing institutional interest in Bitcoin as a long-term asset. Corporate and institutional buyers have continued to add BTC to their reserves, with public companies now holding over 1.1 million Bitcoin.

Bitcoin prices have remained above $93,000 despite the latest delay in the CLARITY Act. The bill, which aims to clarify the regulatory framework for crypto, now faces a potential delay until the final week of January.

Why Did This Happen?

The U.S. government's decision to retain the Samourai Wallet Bitcoin reflects a broader trend of treating Bitcoin as a strategic asset. This move avoids the volatility that could come from a potential sale, particularly as the market remains sensitive to regulatory shifts.

Bitcoin's recent price resilience has also been driven by strong institutional demand. Spot Bitcoin ETFs have recorded a net inflow of $1.81 billion in the past week, signaling continued confidence among large investors.

What Are Analysts Watching Next?

Analysts are closely monitoring the regulatory landscape, particularly the CLARITY Act's progress in Congress. Senate Agriculture Committee Chair John Boozman cited unresolved disagreements over stablecoin incentives and DeFi oversight as reasons for the delay.

Meanwhile, corporate Bitcoin accumulation strategies are gaining traction. Bitmine Immersion Technologies, for example, has invested $200 million in Beast Industries, a move seen as a strategic diversification beyond its core Ethereum operations.

Strive, another major player, has expanded its Bitcoin holdings by acquiring Semler Scientific, adding 5,048 BTC to its treasury. This brings its total holdings to 12,797.9 BTC, placing it among the top 10 public companies by Bitcoin holdings.