Bitcoin-Backed Loans Eye $1 Trillion Threshold
A hidden market worth $1 trillion is emerging within the Bitcoin (BTC) ecosystem, and most retail investors are unaware of its existence. According to new research from digital-asset lender Ledn, bitcoin-backed loans could reach this threshold within a decade due to surging borrower demand and institutional infrastructure development.
The research identifies strong demand for loans from long-term BTC holders across North America, Latin America, and the Middle East. These borrowers prefer to pledge their assets rather than sell them, as selling generates capital-gains liabilities in most jurisdictions, while borrowing does not.
Ledn's co-founder Mauricio Di Bartolomeo describes the firm's customer base as composed of holders who acquired bitcoin years ago and have no intention of selling. They borrow for home purchases, business working capital, and tax payments, mirroring the early mortgage customer profile.