U.S. May Accumulate Bitcoin Using Tariff Revenue, Says Trump

- Trump Proposes Strategic Bitcoin Reserve - Bitcoin Surges 10% Following Announcement [Unblock Media] Trump reignited controversy in the cryptocurrency market after suggesting the establishment of a 'Strategic Bitcoin Reserve' funded by tariff revenue. Announced on April 15, this proposal positions Bitcoin as a "strategic national resource," with Trump expressing his intention to turn the U.S. into the "capital of cryptocurrency." He emphasized Bitcoin as a hedge against inflation and international debt. The administration mentioned that the government's Bitcoin purchases would be "budget-neutral," noting tariff revenue as a potential funding source. Bitcoin initially surged 10.77% from $65,000 to $72,000 within 15 minutes of the announcement. It later climbed above $85,000, posting a 14% gain from the weekly low of $74,500. This movement is reminiscent of El Salvador's 2021 adoption of Bitcoin as legal tender, but the country faced difficulties due to opposition from the IMF and subsequent policy adjustments. Analysts warned that large-scale government Bitcoin accumulation could introduce new volatility. A fund manager commented, "While strategic reserve looks optimistic, if the U.S. decides to liquidate its holdings, it could exert massive selling pressure." While the Trump administration's stance may appear cryptocurrency-friendly, the lack of unified national regulations could add complexity to implementation. Some U.S. states already allow cryptocurrency for tax payments, but others remain cautious, raising questions about the legal framework for sovereign Bitcoin holdings. Trump's shift could lend more legitimacy to Bitcoin as an institutional asset. However, concerns about price manipulation, financial risks, and geopolitical tensions are also emerging. Whether this leads to a fundamental change or remains a temporary attempt is still uncertain. One analyst noted, "This is not just about Bitcoin. It’s about redefining monetary strategy in a multipolar world."