El Salvador’s Bitcoin aspirations were brought closer to earth in 2025
El Salvador, the first country to adopt Bitcoin as legal tender in 2021, faced significant challenges in 2025 as its ambitious crypto plans met economic and institutional resistance. Despite initial efforts like the state-backed Chivo Wallet and $30 sign-up incentives, public usage remained low. The country’s need for a $1.4 billion IMF loan forced a policy shift: Bitcoin acceptance became voluntary, and taxes were required in US dollars. However, President Nayib Bukele continued purchasing Bitcoin, accumulating 6,367 BTC (worth over $588 million) by December 2025, despite IMF pressure. While crypto businesses like Tether and Bitfinex expanded operations in El Salvador due to favorable regulations, critics argued that without broader public education and adoption, the government’s Bitcoin strategy primarily benefited itself rather than the people.
cointelegraph12/24 13:20
