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Bhutan Moves $22.6M in Bitcoin as Reserve Sell-Off Speculation Grows

Bhutan Moves $22.6M in Bitcoin as Reserve Sell-Off Speculation Grows

What to know:

  • Bhutan shifts Bitcoin reserves as transfer activity signals possible selling
  • Government-linked wallets move millions in BTC toward major exchanges
  • Reserve drawdown continues as Bhutan’s Bitcoin holdings steadily decline

Bhutan has intensified activity around its Bitcoin reserves after executing another multi-million dollar transfer onchain. The latest movement has strengthened speculation that the government may be gradually reducing its exposure through structured sales.


Structured Transfers Signal Possible Selling Activity

According to Onchain Lens, Bhutan transferred approximately 319.7 BTC, valued at nearly $22.68 million, across two wallets on Thursday. The transaction did not occur randomly.  Notably, around 250 BTC moved to a wallet previously associated with routing funds toward Galaxy Digital and OKX.


These platforms often facilitate large-scale crypto transactions. Meanwhile, another 69.7 BTC went to a newly created address without any identifiable history. Consequently, this split raised further questions about the intent behind the transfers.


Moreover, Arkham data shows Bhutan has already shifted about $215.7 million worth of bitcoin from its main holding addresses in 2026. A large portion, estimated at $162.6 million, has gone into unlabeled wallets. This trend has added weight to the growing narrative that the government could be preparing assets for gradual liquidation.


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Additionally, Bhutan’s current bitcoin reserves stand at approximately 3,954 BTC, valued at around $280.6 million. This represents a sharp decline from its peak holdings of roughly 13,000 BTC recorded in October 2024. Consequently, the scale of this reduction suggests a sustained drawdown strategy rather than isolated portfolio adjustments.


Druk Holding and Investments Ltd., the country’s sovereign wealth fund, continues to manage these digital assets on behalf of the government. However, officials have not issued any statement clarifying whether the recent movements relate directly to market sales.


Mining Slowdown and Market Conditions Add Context to Transfers

Besides, Bhutan originally built its bitcoin reserves through hydropower-backed mining operations. This approach allowed the country to leverage renewable energy to accumulate digital assets over time. However, Arkham data indicates that mining inflows have slowed significantly. The last recorded inflow exceeding $100,000 occurred more than a year ago.


Furthermore, market conditions provide additional context for these developments. Bitcoin traded near $70,859 during the latest transfers, reflecting a slight decline over the past 24 hours.


Consequently, the timing and structure of Bhutan’s transfers continue to fuel speculation around a coordinated reserve sell-off. While no official confirmation has emerged, the pattern of movements points toward deliberate financial repositioning rather than routine asset management.


Bhutan’s ongoing bitcoin transfers have intensified speculation about a broader reserve reduction strategy. Although authorities remain silent, consistent outflows suggest a calculated shift in managing its digital asset holdings.


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