Increased Allocation Signals Confidence in Digital Assets
In a major move that signals growing confidence in digital assets, Harvard University significantly increased its Bitcoin investment during the third quarter of 2025. According to Bitwise CIO Matt Hougan, Harvard’s Bitcoin holdings jumped from $117 million to a staggering $443 million — nearly a fourfold increase.
At the same time, the Ivy League university also increased its gold ETF allocation, but not nearly as aggressively — from $102 million to $235 million. This clear 2-to-1 preference for Bitcoin over gold reveals a calculated shift in investment strategy.
Betting on Currency Debasement
This aggressive portfolio adjustment suggests that Harvard is hedging against ongoing concerns of currency debasement. Central banks around the world continue to pump liquidity into economies, raising fears that fiat currencies may lose purchasing power in the long term.
Traditionally, gold has been the go-to hedge for inflation and economic instability. However, institutions like Harvard now appear to be leaning toward Bitcoin as a more potent alternative. Unlike gold, Bitcoin is capped at 21 million coins, offering a fixed supply in an increasingly uncertain financial landscape.
Matt Hougan interprets this move as more than just diversification. It’s a strategic bet: Harvard is expressing a stronger conviction in Bitcoin’s potential to outperform traditional safe-haven assets, especially in inflationary environments.
Bitwise CIO Matt Hougan noted that Harvard University increased its Bitcoin investment from $117 million to $443 million in Q3, while boosting its gold ETF allocation from $102 million to $235 million. Harvard is effectively betting on currency debasement, favoring Bitcoin over…
Bitcoin’s Growing Institutional Appeal
Harvard’s decision reflects a broader trend among institutional investors. Bitcoin, once dismissed as too volatile and risky, is now gaining credibility as a long-term store of value. With regulatory frameworks becoming clearer and ETF access simplifying crypto exposure, more institutional portfolios are expected to follow suit.
As one of the world’s most prestigious academic institutions, Harvard’s investment decisions carry weight. Its growing preference for Bitcoin over gold may inspire similar moves across university endowments, hedge funds, and family offices.