
- IMF conditions halt Bitcoin purchases, freezing El Salvador’s holdings.
- 6,250 BTC held, worth $740 million.
- Chivo wallet privatization marks a shift from state control.

El Salvador has stopped buying Bitcoin since February 2025. Official reports confirm the country’s holdings remain at 6,244–6,250 BTC, as financial strategies under the IMF loan agreement prioritize stability over additional cryptocurrency investments.
El Salvador’s government, under President Nayib Bukele, has halted new Bitcoin purchases as directed by an IMF agreement, with holdings remaining static at 6,250 BTC.
El Salvador Halts Bitcoin Purchases under IMF Agreement
The pause in Bitcoin acquisitions reflects IMF’s push for financial stability, impacting El Salvador’s cryptocurrency strategy while stabilizing the economy.
IMF Agreements and Economic Strategy
El Salvador has ceased Bitcoin purchases as part of an IMF agreement, keeping its holdings unchanged at 6,250 BTC valued at around $740 million. President Nayib Bukele initially appeared enthusiastic, encouraging continual purchases. Internal wallet activity replaced new acquisitions, signaling a shift in government strategy.
Following IMF requirements, leadership including Central Bank President and Finance Minister confirmed no new purchases since February 2025.
“The stock of Bitcoins held by the public sector remains unchanged.” — Douglas Pablo Rodríguez Fuentes, President of Central Bank of El Salvador (IMF Article IV Report, July 15, 2025)
These actions aimed at stabilizing the financial system include the privatization of the Chivo wallet.
The absence of new purchases may affect El Salvador’s prior role in the Bitcoin market, eliminating minor demand contributions. However, the government remains focused on ensuring longer-term financial resilience. While the decision is aligned with preserving economic stability, concerns about the country’s economic security persist among community members.
Future outcomes could involve reduced Bitcoin exposure and a stronger regulatory framework. The ongoing focus on financial stability reflects a broader trend seen worldwide as sovereign states grapple with volatile cryptocurrencies.
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