The momentum for Bitcoin adoption by nation-states is gathering speed as skepticism wanes, according to Samson Mow, founder of Jan3. In a recent discussion on the What Bitcoin Did podcast, Mow remarked that the world is transitioning from a gradual phase of acceptance to a more rapid embrace of Bitcoin as a strategic asset.
“We are nearing the end of a gradual phase, and entering the beginning of a sudden shift,” Mow stated, highlighting the potential for countries to establish Strategic Bitcoin Reserves swiftly. He described this phenomenon as a period marked by gradual advances leading to sudden and dramatic changes in behavior, stating, “It’s literally gradually then suddenly.” Mow anticipates a rush of nation-state interest and investment that he likens to a panic-driven FOMO (Fear of Missing Out).
Although the United States has yet to commence its purchasing of Bitcoin—despite President Trump’s executive order to create a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve—Mow affirmed that the nation is making strides towards executing its plans. He commented on the U.S. government’s commitment to a budget-neutral approach to identifying and acquiring Bitcoin as part of a broader strategy.
Alex Thorn, head of firmwide research at Galaxy Digital, weighed in on the situation, indicating a strong possibility that the U.S. government may establish its long-anticipated Strategic Bitcoin Reserve by the end of the current year. He pointed to the necessity for the U.S. to act promptly to avoid being outpaced by other countries in this competitive landscape.
At present, reports indicate that the United States holds 198,012 Bitcoin, leading all nations in total Bitcoin reserves. Mow stressed the urgency for the U.S. to start acquiring Bitcoin soon, warning that it risks being outperformed by nations such as Pakistan if it delays further.
Mow also expressed optimism regarding the potential for Bitcoin adoption in Latin America. He mentioned this region as a focal point for future growth in the cryptocurrency sector, reinforcing the idea that broader global acceptance is on the horizon. This sentiment is echoed by analyses from firms like Fidelity Digital Assets, which predict increasing interest from nation-states and centralized financial institutions in establishing significant positions in Bitcoin.
As market dynamics evolve, Mow noted the current price of Bitcoin, which is valued at $109,400 at the time of reporting, has not achieved the expected upward trajectory many had forecasted for 2025. “Bitcoin should have already seen substantial growth,” he remarked, suggesting that this cycle may extend beyond initial predictions and potentially into next year. This viewpoint aligns with insights from other industry leaders—such as Matt Hougan, chief investment officer at Bitwise—who has suggested that 2026 could see a favorable market environment for Bitcoin.
The ongoing discussions around Bitcoin adoption by governments highlight a broader debate within the crypto industry regarding the relevance of traditional market cycles, especially in the context of the increasing influence of institutional demand and the introduction of exchange-traded funds (ETFs).
Mow had previously asserted that the $1 million Bitcoin valuation is increasingly plausible, hinting that it could materialize within the coming year or two. The emergence of strategic plans around Bitcoin by nation-states is undoubtedly a development that could significantly impact the digital asset landscape.
