Trump Hints at Expanding Bitcoin Holdings, But Congress Holds Key
US President Donald Trump has hinted at expanding the country's bitcoin holdings, but any large-scale market purchases would require explicit authorization from Congress.
An analysis suggests that while there are some routes open for the executive branch to increase federal cryptocurrency holdings, an open-market purchase program worth billions of dollars is not feasible without congressional approval.
The key issue is that bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies are treated differently under US law. An executive order signed by Trump in 2025 directed the Treasury and Commerce departments to devise a 'budget-neutral' way to secure bitcoin without imposing additional burdens on taxpayers.
However, any additional executive orders or legislation would be needed to widen the paths for adding assets such as Ethereum, XRP, and Solana. Even if an additional executive order is issued, Congress's authority remains, and implementation must follow 'applicable law' and the 'availability of appropriations.'