Aleš Michl, the governor of the Czech National Bank (ČNB), has hinted at the possibility of adding Bitcoin (BTC) to the bank’s reserves but emphasized that the idea is still in its early stages.
In an interview with CNN Prima News, Michl referred to Bitcoin as an “interesting option” for diversifying the central bank’s portfolio.
Bitcoin Considered, But No Concrete Plans Yet
Michl noted that the ČNB continuously evaluates its reserve strategy, including potential new assets like cryptocurrencies. However, he clarified that the bank has not yet developed a formal strategy for Bitcoin.
“I was thinking of acquiring just a few Bitcoin, but I never intended to make a significant investment,” Michl said, emphasizing that any decision would require approval from the seven-member bank board.
For now, the ČNB appears to be focusing on traditional assets. Michl revealed that the bank plans to increase its gold reserves to 5% of its total holdings by 2028, signaling a preference for stability over high-volatility assets like Bitcoin.
Global Momentum for Bitcoin Reserves
Michl’s comments reflect a growing global interest in Bitcoin as a reserve asset, particularly after Donald Trump’s election victory reignited discussions on the cryptocurrency’s role in national strategies.
In the United States, both Trump and Wyoming Senator Cynthia Lummis have advocated for a national strategic Bitcoin reserve.
Lummis has proposed legal reforms to allow the Federal Reserve to hold Bitcoin, addressing concerns voiced by Fed Chair Jerome Powell.
Some U.S. states, including Texas and Ohio, have also introduced legislation aimed at establishing state-level BTC treasuries.
Interest Spreads Beyond the U.S.
Globally, the idea of Bitcoin reserves has gained traction:
Brazil, Poland, Germany, Russia, and Switzerland have reportedly debated the merits of BTC treasuries.
Social media rumors suggest that as many as 21 nation-states are exploring Bitcoin reserve policies, though these reports remain unverified.
Conclusion
While the Czech National Bank is taking a measured approach, the mere consideration of Bitcoin as a reserve asset by a central bank highlights its growing appeal on the global stage. For now, the ČNB remains focused on traditional assets like gold, but Michl’s comments underscore Bitcoin’s rising influence in conversations about financial diversification and modernization.