US Launches 'Crypto Strategic Reserve' Amid Market Volatility
WASHINGTON – In a bold and unprecedented move, President Donald Trump announced on March 2, 2025, the creation of a "Crypto Strategic Reserve" aimed at cementing the United States’ leadership in the rapidly evolving digital asset sector . The reserve is slated to include five of the major cryptocurrencies: Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Ripple (XRP), Solana (SOL), and Cardano (ADA).
This initiative marks a significant shift in the U.S. government's approach to cryptocurrencies—from prior caution and skepticism to active support. President Trump has emphasized his ambition to transform the U.S. into the “crypto capital of the world,” signaling a strategic pivot toward embracing digital currencies as a cornerstone of national economic policy .
Market Reaction and Economic Concerns
The announcement sparked immediate volatility across the cryptocurrency markets. Bitcoin, for instance, surged to a peak of $95,136 on Sunday before settling around $87,688 by Tuesday. Similar fluctuations were observed with other major digital assets such as XRP and Cardano, underscoring the market’s sensitivity to policy shifts .
Financial experts and economists have raised several concerns regarding the practicality of the proposed reserve. Stephen Cecchetti from Brandeis International Business School described the plan as “absurd,” questioning both its funding and the potential risk it poses to the U.S. dollar's global standing . Critics further warn that the establishment of such a reserve might lead to an unintended wealth transfer—from taxpayers to existing cryptocurrency holders—while also increasing the risk of corruption and conflicts of interest, given the President’s personal investments in the crypto space .
Looking Ahead: The Cryptocurrency Summit
In response to these growing concerns, the administration has announced the first Cryptocurrency Summit, set to take place at the White House on March 7. The summit will serve as a critical forum to discuss the implementation of the reserve, address industry apprehensions, and clarify key issues such as funding sources and operational logistics .
As the United States embarks on this ambitious initiative, stakeholders across the financial and technological sectors will be closely monitoring its impact. Whether the Crypto Strategic Reserve will bolster America’s position in the digital economy remains to be seen, but the move undoubtedly represents a new chapter in the intersection of government policy and digital innovation.