Michael Saylor, executive chairman of software intelligence firm Microstrategy (Nasdaq: MSTR) and a leading bitcoin advocate, has highlighted the potential of a strategic bitcoin reserve by drawing parallels with historic U.S. acquisitions. He stated on social media platform X Sunday:
The strategic bitcoin reserve has historic precedents.
Saylor outlined how transformative investments have yielded exponential returns over time. He pointed to Manhattan’s 1626 purchase for 60 guilders, now estimated to be worth $2.1 trillion, reflecting a 6% annual return rate. Similarly, the Louisiana Purchase of 1803, acquired for $15 million, has an estimated economic value of $12 trillion today, achieving a 6.3% annualized return.
The Microstrategy chairman also referenced California’s 1848 purchase for $18 million, which is now valued at $8 trillion with a 7.7% annual return, and Alaska’s 1867 acquisition for $7.2 million, worth an estimated $1 trillion today, reflecting a 7.8% return. These historic transactions illustrate how early investments in high-potential assets can deliver remarkable payoffs over time.
Image showing historic precedents of the strategic bitcoin reserve shared by Michael Saylor.
Drawing on these precedents, Saylor argued that bitcoin could serve as a modern-day equivalent of these transformative acquisitions, positioning it as a strategic digital reserve capable of delivering unparalleled long-term value. Advocates of bitcoin echo Saylor’s perspective, noting its potential as a “digital gold” and long-term store of value. While its volatility poses risks, proponents believe its scarcity and utility make it a strategic asset for forward-thinking investors and nations alike.
Discussions about establishing a U.S. strategic bitcoin reserve have gained momentum following Donald Trump‘s re-election. President-elect Trump has proposed creating such a reserve, and U.S. Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) has introduced the Bitcoin Act, which calls for the Treasury to acquire up to one million bitcoins over five years to hedge against economic uncertainty. Industry leaders have expressed support, highlighting its potential to position the U.S. as a leader in digital finance.
