Bitcoin Reserves in the U.S.: Why Is Europe Staying Silent?

The European lawmakers maintain an intriguing silence in the face of Donald Trump’s executive order aimed at creating a strategic bitcoin reserve in the United States. While this decision marks a major turning point in global monetary policy, the absence of reaction in Europe raises questions: mere indifference or a response in preparation?

Europe’s Silence on the Bitcoin Reserve in the United States: Worrying?

On March 7, 2025, Donald Trump signed a decree ordering the creation of a strategic bitcoin reserve. Unlike a direct acquisition on the market, this reserve would be formed from cryptocurrencies seized in the context of criminal cases. This decision marks a major turning point in American monetary policy, favoring increased adoption of BTC.

Despite the potential impact of this announcement, European leaders have made no public comments regarding the possible integration of bitcoin into their own national reserves. This silence may be linked to the complexity of adding a new asset to national reserves. Additionally, the ECB has historically shown a critical position towards BTC, with an advisor recently stating that it has no real economic value.

The EU Focused on the Digital Euro

While the United States views bitcoin as a strategic asset, Europe is concentrating on launching its digital euro. Christine Lagarde, president of the ECB, has confirmed that this central bank digital currency (CBDC) will be operational by October 2025. She emphasized that the digital euro will coexist with cash and will guarantee a certain level of privacy to reassure citizens about surveillance risks.

However, doubts remain about the ECB’s ability to manage an effective digital payment system. Especially since while CBDCs are praised for their potential to promote financial inclusion, they also raise concerns about government surveillance, despite assurances from Christine Lagarde.

Bitcoin VS CBDC: Two Opposed Visions of Monetary Future

The world therefore seems to be splitting into two distinct monetary blocs. On one side, supporters of bitcoin, led by the United States under Trump, joined by countries such as El Salvador and potentially China, according to Changpeng Zhao. On the other, advocates of central bank digital currencies (CBDCs), with the European Union, Russia, and India at the forefront. 

This divide pits a decentralized model, where bitcoin becomes a global reserve of value, against an ultra-centralized model under state control. Who will be right? The future will tell which system will withstand economic crises and guarantee the most freedom and efficiency.