Key Developments in El Salvador's Bitcoin Strategy
El Salvador recently executed its largest single-day Bitcoin purchase, acquiring over $100 million worth of BTC during a market downturn. This significant acquisition brings the nation's total Bitcoin reserves to approximately 7,474 BTC, valued at around $676 million. The purchase of 1,090 BTC in a single day represents a substantial increase compared to the country's previous steady accumulation strategy, which began with a goal of "one Bitcoin per day" in November 2022.
Hooah! pic.twitter.com/KxMVbUrcGE
— Nayib Bukele (@nayibbukele) November 18, 2025
Sovereignty and Financial Autonomy as Driving Forces
Despite ongoing criticism and warnings from international bodies like the IMF regarding the financial risks associated with Bitcoin, the Salvadoran government remains steadfast in its strategy. Officials maintain that building Bitcoin reserves is a long-term initiative aimed at reducing reliance on foreign financial systems, rather than an attempt to time the market. They emphasize that purchasing Bitcoin during market downturns is a deliberate choice, positioning BTC as a tool for achieving financial autonomy and insulating the country from the pressures of traditional banking infrastructure.
Expanding Bitcoin Integration Beyond Reserves
In parallel with its reserve accumulation, El Salvador is actively integrating Bitcoin into its public infrastructure. The government has engaged in partnerships, such as one with Pakistan, to explore Bitcoin-based applications within state systems. Additionally, a collaboration with the U.S. firm Simple Proof is focused on digitizing official records on the Bitcoin blockchain, utilizing timestamp cryptography for verification purposes.
Challenges in Communication and Transparency
The national Bitcoin initiative has encountered some challenges, particularly concerning communication. In July, conflicting statements emerged when senior finance officials suggested that no Bitcoin purchases had been made since February, which appeared to contradict the daily-buy narrative promoted by President Nayib Bukele and the Bitcoin Office. This lack of clear public resolution has left transparency as an area where critics continue to find grounds for concern.