U.S. Treasury develops custody framework for its Bitcoin holdings

The U.S. Treasury is creating a custody system for the Bitcoin it holds, using a mix of self‑custody and third‑party custodians. The government estimates its stash at roughly 198,000 to over 328,000 BTC. The effort follows the March 6 2025 executive order that created the Strategic Bitcoin Reserve and bars routine sales of the assets. Treasury officials say the framework will improve reporting accuracy and security.

The custody framework could tighten reporting on the government’s Bitcoin cache, reducing uncertainty about supply that can affect market pricing. By limiting routine sales, the reserve may keep large volumes off the market, influencing price dynamics for investors.

  • 1The Treasury Department is developing a custody system for its Bitcoin holdings.
  • 2The custody plan combines self‑custody with third‑party custodians.
  • 3The government’s Bitcoin stash is estimated between approximately 198,000 BTC and over 328,000 BTC.
  • 4Executive Order 14233, issued on March 6 2025, created the Strategic Bitcoin Reserve.
  • 5The order prohibits routine sales of the reserve’s Bitcoin, allowing sales only in limited circumstances.

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