With only 21 million Bitcoin existing, it begs the question: “Who owns the most Bitcoin?” Bitcoin is one of the most popular cryptocurrencies in the world and has left the digital space to be used in real-world applications.
From purchasing gift cards online to playing casino games at crypto casinos, Bitcoin is no longer just a digital asset purchased for diversifying investment portfolios. Bitcoin has become a versatile currency for everyday use. Many iGaming enthusiasts prefer to access online casinos that accept crypto because of the low transaction fees and anonymity, while it can also be used online at various retailers to purchase the perfect gift. Even popular fast-food establishments, like Starbucks and Burger King, allow you to buy meals with Bitcoin! It has become almost tangible, and those who own Bitcoin have a variety of ways in which to spend it.
So, who are these people or companies with the largest amount of Bitcoin in their digital wallets, and how much Bitcoin do they hold?
1. Satoshi Nakamoto
Estimated Bitcoin: 1.1 million
Satoshi Nakamoto is the pseudonym of one of the Bitcoin creators and is a legend in the crypto industry. This individual is reported to hold 1.1 million BTC, thanks to being involved in Bitcoin mining since the creation of the cryptocurrency.
His BTC holdings have reportedly been untouched since 2010, which indicates Nakamoto’s intent for the currency: a DeFi (decentralized finance) system, not a means to increase personal wealth.
Nakamoto is an enigma in the crypto world because his true identity remains hidden, fascinating everyone who is interested in Bitcoin.
2. Michael J. Saylor
Estimated Bitcoin: 129,000
Michael Saylor is the CEO of MicroStrategy. He completely transformed the company’s investment strategy when cash assets were converted into Bitcoin in 2020. As the CEO, he also holds Bitcoin.
The reason for this seemingly aggressive transformation is that Saylor believes that cryptocurrency holds more value than fiat currency, especially in the current era where inflation is high. Saylor has become an advocate for Bitcoin and other cryptos and advises companies looking to invest.
3. Cameron and Tyler Winklevoss
Estimated Bitcoin: 70,000
The Winklevoss twins became household names when they disputed the origins of Facebook with Mark Zuckerberg. However, today their surname is associated with cryptocurrency, as part of the dispute settlement was used to purchase Bitcoin.
Their early investment in the cryptocurrency allowed them to create crypto-exchange Gemini and also showcased their foresight into the boom of Bitcoin.
4. Changpeng Zhao
Estimated Bitcoin: not publicly disclosed
Changpeng Zhao is the current CEO and founder of the cryptocurrency exchange, Binance. He ventured into crypto for the first time in 2014, when he reportedly sold his house to purchase Bitcoin. This was a clear indicator that he saw a lot of potential for the cryptocurrency.
Exactly how much Bitcoin Zhao holds is not publicly disclosed, but since he has a major stake in Binance and the company’s crypto holdings, as well as his 2014 investment in Bitcoin, it is safe to say he is one of the biggest holders.
5. Tim Draper
Estimated Bitcoin: 30,000
Tim Draper is a venture capitalist who made a name for himself when he purchased almost 30,000 Bitcoin for a discounted rate which was initially seized from Silk Road by the government. Despite the unfortunate outcome, his purchase, which was worth millions of dollars, indicated his trust in the future of Bitcoin.
He continues to advocate for Bitcoin, other cryptos, and blockchain tech, and his Bitcoin investment continues to grow.
Companies Holding The Most Bitcoin
Companies also hold vast amounts of Bitcoin; here are the top public and private companies that have a stake in the cryptocurrency.
Public companies
MicroStrategy, the company founded by Saylor, is the public company that holds the most Bitcoin, It is estimated that MicroStrategy holds 1.2% of the total Bitcoin supply (around 252,000 BTC). The reason for this amount is that the company raises debt capital, which is then used to purchase crypto. Then the company can sell a smaller amount of Bitcoin as the value increases to pay off debts.
Robinhood Markets offers various financial services, including trading of crypto ETFs, stocks, and cryptocurrencies. They have adopted an aggressive crypto-accumulation strategy and currently hold just less than 145,000 BTC.
Marathon Digital Holdings (a Bitcoin mining operation) is reported to hold 20,000 BTC.
It comes as no surprise that Tesla is also a major player in the Bitcoin industry, reportedly holding around 9,720 BTC. This number is vastly reduced as Tesla, Inc. sold more than 33,000 BTC in the past three years.
Finally, Hut 8 Mining Corp holds just over 9,000 Bitcoin.
Private companies
Private companies hold a total of 1.8% of the global Bitcoin supply, with Mt. Gox the largest private Bitcoin holder with a total of 141,000 BTC.
Stone Ridge Holdings Group is also a big holder, with just shy of 11,000 BTC.