Saudi Arabia enters crypto via investment in Strategy
The bank reported owning 25,656 Strategy stock
In a surprising pivot toward digital assets, the Saudi Central Bank has disclosed a stake in Strategy (formerly MicroStrategy), indirectly gaining exposure to Bitcoin—the world’s largest cryptocurrency.
The bank reported owning 25,656 shares of Strategy stock, a company widely known for its aggressive accumulation of Bitcoin under Executive Chairman Michael Saylor.
Strategy currently holds 568,840 BTC, valued at approximately $68 billion, making it the largest institutional holder of Bitcoin globally. This move effectively positions the Saudi Central Bank, also known as the Saudi Arabian Monetary Authority (SAMA), among a small but growing list of state financial institutions with indirect or direct exposure to crypto assets.
A subtle but symbolic shift
Traditionally, central banks have relied on gold and U.S. dollars to hedge national reserves. But as economic diversification becomes a growing priority, some institutions are eyeing high-growth assets. The Saudi Central Bank’s investment follows a similar strategy adopted by Norway’s sovereign wealth fund, which has backed firms like Strategy, Coinbase, and Metaplanet to gain indirect crypto exposure.
Though Strategy’s stock did not rally on the news—falling 5% amid market volatility—the symbolic importance of the move hasn’t gone unnoticed. Industry analysts say it could mark a milestone in legitimizing Bitcoin as a long-term asset class for sovereign investors.
What’s Next?
While the Saudi Central Bank has not commented publicly on the rationale behind its investment, the timing suggests a calculated step into the digital finance era. As global institutions reevaluate portfolio strategies, more sovereign investors may follow, especially as Bitcoin continues to gain ground as a recognized store of value.
We also informed you earlier that Ukraine prepares bill on Bitcoin reserve and South Korea supports legalization of Bitcoin ETFs.
