In a significant shift within the cryptocurrency landscape, corporations have emerged as the largest net buyers of Bitcoin (BTC) in 2025, surpassing both exchange-traded funds (ETFs) and retail investors. According to research from Bitcoin investment firm River, corporate holdings have surged by 157,000 BTC, valued at approximately $16 billion, with firms like Michael Saylor’s Strategy accounting for a staggering 77% of this growth.
The report, shared on X on May 12, highlights a robust interest from businesses across various industries in Bitcoin’s potential to reshape their futures. Following corporations, ETFs have also increased their Bitcoin holdings by 49,000 BTC, worth about $5 billion, while governments have added around 19,000 BTC. In contrast, retail traders have experienced a decline of 247,000 BTC in their holdings this year.
The surge in corporate Bitcoin ownership represents a remarkable 154% increase since 2024. Notably, finance and investment firms are leading the charge, making up 35.7% of total purchases, followed by technology companies at 16.8% and professional consulting firms at 16.5%. Recent large-scale acquisitions include Strategy’s purchase of 13,390 BTC for $1.34 billion and Metaplanet’s addition of 1,241 BTC, surpassing the holdings of El Salvador.
As more public companies enter the Bitcoin market—at least twelve made their first purchases in Q1 2025—analysts warn that this corporate demand could exert upward pressure on Bitcoin’s price, given its finite supply. With miners producing only 450 BTC daily, the dynamics of supply and demand may be shifting towards a deflationary trend, further solidifying Bitcoin’s position as a critical asset in the financial landscape.
