Bhutan Strategic Bitcoin Reserve Tracker and Laws

Bhutan Bitcoin Reserve Overview

Bhutan holds approximately 3,100 BTC (as of May 2026) through its sovereign investment arm Druk Holding & Investments (DHI), accumulated via state-backed Bitcoin mining operations powered by abundant hydroelectric energy. The Royal Government has actively drawn down reserves through 2026 to fund the Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC) project and other national initiatives — down from a peak of over 12,000 BTC in mid-2025.

Policy Highlights

State-backed Bitcoin mining operated by DHI since 2019
Reserves drawn down via OTC transfers (QCP Capital among recipients)
Holdings funded Gelephu Mindfulness City development
Hydroelectric energy powers all mining operations
Bhutan ranks among top 5 sovereign Bitcoin holders globally despite drawdown

Bhutan Bitcoin Reserve Updates

2026-05-16

Arkham data shows DHI-linked wallets down to roughly 3,100 BTC from ~13,000 BTC in late 2024; Bhutan officials say they do not recall selling.
2026-03-31

DHI moved 375 BTC ($25.18M) — weekly outflows surpass 1,000 BTC according to Arkham Intelligence.
2025-06-01

Bhutan holdings reach 12,062 BTC, becoming the world's third-largest sovereign BTC holder at the time.
2023-05-01

Bhutan's Bitcoin mining operations publicly disclosed for the first time by Forbes investigation.
2019-04-01

Druk Holding & Investments quietly began state-backed Bitcoin mining using hydropower.

Bhutan Bitcoin Reserve FAQs

Does Bhutan hold Bitcoin reserves?

Bhutan holds approximately 3,100 BTC. Current reserve status: Strategic Reserve.

How much Bitcoin does Bhutan own in 2026?

As of May 22, 2026, Bhutan is associated with roughly 3,100 BTC based on on-chain analysis and public disclosures.

Is Bitcoin legal in Bhutan?

Does Bhutan have a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve?

Bhutan's reserve status is classified as 'Strategic Reserve'. A Strategic Bitcoin Reserve is a government-held Bitcoin stockpile; this page tracks whether Bhutan has established, proposed, or has no such reserve, with the verified timeline above.

How did Bhutan acquire its Bitcoin?

Sovereign Bitcoin holdings are typically acquired through criminal asset seizures, direct treasury purchases, mining, or donations. The timeline above details how Bhutan accumulated its position.

Is cryptocurrency taxed in Bhutan?

Crypto taxation varies by jurisdiction and commonly covers capital gains, income, or VAT/GST treatment. For Bhutan, consult the policy summary above and a qualified local tax advisor, as rules change frequently.

Can you legally buy and hold Bitcoin in Bhutan?

In most jurisdictions individuals may buy and hold Bitcoin through registered exchanges, though some apply licensing or restrictions. Review Bhutan's regulatory stance above ('Strategic Reserve') for the current position.

What is Bhutan's cryptocurrency regulation?

Is Bitcoin mining allowed in Bhutan?

Bitcoin mining policy ranges from full support to outright bans depending on energy policy and regulation. The country summary and timeline above note any mining-specific rules applicable to Bhutan.

When was Bhutan's Bitcoin policy last updated?

This page reflects the latest verified data as of May 22, 2026, compiled from primary sources including the Federal Register, government press releases, parliamentary records, and on-chain analysis.

How is Bhutan's Bitcoin reserve data verified?

All figures are cross-checked against primary sources: government press releases, parliamentary and court records, on-chain forensic analysis, and reputable journalism (Reuters, Cointelegraph, CoinDesk). Estimates are clearly marked where attribution is contested.

Official Sources & Data References for Bhutan

All data on this page is compiled from primary, verifiable sources. Click any source below to verify directly.

Bhutan Bitcoin Reserves