Satoshi Nakamoto's Bitcoin Holdings Remain Dormant, Sparking Debate About Network Dependence
Satoshi Nakamoto, the pseudonymous creator of Bitcoin, has been at the center of speculation in recent days. According to blockchain forensics firm Bitquery, Satoshi may control between 0.89 million and 1.17 million BTC, representing about 5.5% of circulating supply.
The estimated holdings are based on early mining activity and a distinctive 'Patoshi' pattern identified by researchers and tracked by Arkham Intelligence. This amount, accumulated through mining in Bitcoin's first year, is roughly equivalent to $86.2 billion at the current price of approximately $84,475 per BTC.
An audit of the reconstructed holdings found that 1,023,352 BTC remain unmoved on the blockchain, suggesting that Satoshi has not returned to the market or begun moving any of the long-dormant holdings. The firm also tracked 28 early coins that became active since 2020, yet none met its standards for confirming Satoshi ownership.
Crypto users have responded to the speculation in different ways, with some arguing that whether or not Satoshi is moving their Bitcoins does little to nothing for the asset and the Bitcoin network. As one user noted: 'The more interesting question is not whether Satoshi is moving. It's why we still care so much. Bitcoin's strongest test may be whether the network can keep functioning without its creator, even if those coins suddenly move tomorrow.'