Binance founder Zhao Changpeng (CZ) presented a striking viewpoint at the Bitcoin MENA conference held in Abu Dhabi on December 9, 2024: he believes that China could potentially become one of the countries to establish a Bitcoin reserve. This viewpoint has sparked widespread discussion, especially in the context of the United States' upcoming implementation of a Bitcoin strategic reserve program.
Zhao Changpeng stated that Bitcoin is referred to as 'digital gold,' and its scarcity and decentralized characteristics make it increasingly popular among investors. Compared to traditional fiat currencies and financial instruments, it has a stronger value preservation capability. In his view, the Bitcoin reserve strategy is not only a means to combat inflation but also an important way to enhance national financial security.
Zhao Changpeng pointed out that although China's stance on cryptocurrency is somewhat ambiguous and uncertain, the trend of establishing Bitcoin reserves is 'inevitable.' When the United States actually begins to establish a Bitcoin reserve, it could potentially trigger other countries to follow suit. At some point, China must also do the same because Bitcoin is the only 'hard asset.' However, before that, smaller countries will likely take the lead in adopting Bitcoin reserves to combat inflation and external economic shocks.
Although there is currently no concrete evidence of China hoarding Bitcoin, Zhao Changpeng, who grew up in China, believes that once China decides to take action, it can quickly implement policies. CZ thinks that China might emulate the Bitcoin reserve program proposed by the Trump administration in the United States, but it is more likely to first secretly amass a large amount of Bitcoin before formally announcing its strategic plan to the outside world at the right time. This 'quiet' strategy could allow China to swiftly enter the Bitcoin market without other countries realizing it.
Zhao Changpeng's viewpoint has prompted reflections on the future of the world economy: if Bitcoin truly becomes a global reserve asset, how will the traditional financial system respond to this change? How will central banks around the world adjust their monetary policies to accommodate this emerging asset? These answers are all unknown, but it may be bold to predict that the future financial system could revolve around Bitcoin, forming a new type of international monetary system where countries around the world may engage in intense competition in this field.