More central banks are warming to investing in cryptocurrencies

Press reporting gives the distinct impression that more central banks are warming to investing in cryptocurrencies. However, a recent Central Banking survey about

A recent Central Banking survey, about central bank reserves, indicates that while press reports may give the distinct impression that more central banks are warming to investing in cryptocurrencies, the complete picture is mixed.

Last year’s survey of 156 central banks, which collectively manage more than $7 trillion in reserves, found that 15.9% of respondents would consider investing in digital assets or currencies. The time frame for such investments was slated for five to ten years.

However, in the 2025 survey, the figure for cryptocurrencies over the same timescale was just 2.1%, and none of the 91 central banks that manage more than $7 trillion in reserves currently have digital asset investments.

In terms of bitcoin specifically, the survey results showed that no central banks currently consider it an appropriate investment class. However, a quarter of respondents (23%) were unsure, and nearly a twelfth (11.6%) said cryptocurrencies are becoming a more credible investment.

Those figures might surprise those who assume central bankers are averse to anything outside of traditional asset classes.

When it came to the idea of a bitcoin strategic reserve, just one central bank was supportive, with 50 (59.5%) against the idea. However, a significant number (33, or 39.3%) were unsure.

The survey was conducted in January and February, before Trump’s March executive order regarding the creation of a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve as well as a U.S. Digital Asset Stockpile. That said, he briefly mentioned the idea in an earlier January digital asset executive order.

Those who follow the crypto sphere might be inclined to view bitcoin as a safe haven asset, although sometimes its price performance mirrors the stock market direction.

During the coming year, the more traditional safe haven, gold, will attract more investment from central bankers, with 27 out of 72 (37.5%) planning to increase their positions, and none looking to reduce their exposure.

Despite the survey being conducted earlier in the year, before the latest round of US tariffs, survey respondents cited US protectionist policies as the single biggest risk. That risk might have transpired a little sooner and larger than anticipated.