Corporate Bitcoin Boom: Companies Outshine ETFs in BTC Accumulation

It’s no secret that institutional interest in Bitcoin has been on the rise, but a recent analysis by Cex.io reveals a surprising trend: publicly traded companies are outpacing US Spot Bitcoin ETFs in BTC accumulation this year. Despite starting the year with a significant gap, corporate treasuries have narrowed the difference, with their Bitcoin holdings increasing by a whopping 96% compared to a 44% rise in ETFs.

The Gap Closes

At the beginning of 2025, US Spot Bitcoin ETFs boasted assets of nearly $120 billion, more than twice the $65.8 billion held by public companies. However, as the year progressed, companies have stepped up their Bitcoin purchases, adding a staggering $47.3 billion worth of Bitcoin to their treasuries. This not only surpasses the net inflows of $31.7 billion into ETFs but also demonstrates a significant shift in institutional investment strategies.

Key Players

Some companies have been particularly aggressive in their Bitcoin accumulation. Strategy, formerly known as MicroStrategy, has been one of the most active buyers, increasing its Bitcoin holdings by over $12 billion since January. This move is likely aimed at solidifying its position as a leader in BTC accumulation. Another notable player is Twenty-One Capital, a digital asset company backed by heavy hitters like Cantor Fitzgerald, Tether, and Softbank, which has boosted its Bitcoin holdings by over $5 billion. Meanwhile, Japanese company MetAplanet has seen its BTC stock skyrocket, multiplying its holdings almost six times with over 17,000 BTC added this year.

What Does This Mean for the Market?

The increasing influence of corporate treasuries on the Bitcoin market signals more than just a desire for portfolio diversification. Unlike ETFs, which offer a liquid and flexible way to gain exposure to Bitcoin, balance sheet holdings reflect a direct and often long-term commitment to the asset. This suggests that companies are taking a more strategic, less speculative approach to their Bitcoin investments, which could have significant implications for the market as a whole.

As institutional interest in Bitcoin continues to grow, it will be interesting to see how this trend plays out. Will companies continue to outpace ETFs in BTC accumulation, or will the tide shift once again? One thing is certain: the Bitcoin market is becoming increasingly complex, with a diverse range of players and investment strategies at play.