- Sovereign wealth funds are increasingly buying Bitcoin as retail investors exit, viewing it as a hedge against inflation and global instability.
- Regulatory clarity and institutional adoption are further boosting Bitcoin’s appeal as a long-term asset.
A growing shift in Bitcoin ownership is underway, with sovereign wealth funds accumulating the asset just as retail investors are heading for the exits, according to a top Coinbase executive.

John D’Agostino, head of strategy at Coinbase, recently told CNBC that the current market correction is revealing a new dynamic: sovereign entities and institutional players are stepping in where retail once dominated. “Bitcoin is trading on its core characteristics,” said D’Agostino, pointing to its scarcity, immutability, and status as a non-sovereign store of value—traits that echo gold.
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This institutional pivot comes amid growing global uncertainty. With inflationary pressures, currency volatility, and geopolitical tensions, sovereign wealth funds are seeing Bitcoin as a strategic hedge. Countries like El Salvador and Bhutan have publicly adopted Bitcoin into their national reserves, signaling a trend that could extend to more state-level treasuries and financial authorities worldwide.
The adoption isn’t limited to nations. Corporate treasuries are also embracing Bitcoin, led by early adopters like Michael Saylor’s firm, Strategy. With over 13,000 institutions holding stakes and around 55 million people with indirect exposure, Strategy has become a model for Bitcoin treasury management.
This surge in institutional confidence is further buoyed by increasing regulatory clarity. The recent appointment of Paul Atkins as SEC Chairman—a known crypto advocate—has stirred optimism. Atkins promises a “rational, coherent, principle-based” approach to digital asset regulation. His pro-crypto stance is expected to lower entry barriers for big money, potentially accelerating institutional adoption.
Bitcoin’s rise isn’t just symbolic. The asset recently surpassed Google in market capitalization, cementing its place among the top five global assets. Its capped supply and decentralized nature continue to attract those looking for alternatives to traditional fiat systems.
While retail investors may be backing away for now, sovereign wealth funds and large institutions appear to be doubling down—betting that Bitcoin’s best days are yet to come.