El Salvador, under President Nayib Bukele, purchased 1,090 BTC worth approximately $100 million in mid-November 2025, defying IMF commitments against further Bitcoin accumulation.
The move underlines El Salvador's commitment to BTC despite IMF opposition, impacting market sentiment and drawing attention to sovereign influences on cryptocurrency strategies.
Government's Largest Single-Day Purchase
El Salvador’s government, led by President Nayib Bukele, executed its largest-ever single-day Bitcoin purchase in mid-November 2025. The nation acquired 1,090 BTC, worth approximately $100 million, as Bitcoin’s price fell below $90,000.
By continuing to accumulate BTC, El Salvador directly defies the International Monetary Fund’s conditions that prohibit further public Bitcoin purchases. The total holdings have now increased to 7,474 BTC, according to a screenshot shared by Bukele.
Market Impact and Sovereign Strategy
El Salvador's move impacts market sentiment, as it comes during a period of thin liquidity and spot outflows from ETFs. The purchase is a notable signal by a sovereign actor amid volatile periods in cryptocurrency markets.
The country’s strategy raises questions about compliance with international lenders, particularly the IMF, who have opposed further Bitcoin accumulation. Despite international pressures, El Salvador has maintained its Bitcoin adoption strategy.
Community Support and Historical Precedent
Communities within the crypto industry have largely supported the buy. This action continues El Salvador's pattern of significant purchases during market dips, reinforcing confidence among Bitcoin proponents.
Potential outcomes include strengthened market confidence and sovereign interest in cryptocurrencies, as Bitcoin's price could rally due to sovereign buys during bearish cycles. Stacy Herbert, Director of El Salvador’s National Bitcoin Office, remarked on the support, noting how "some ‘bitcoiners’ trust the words of the IMF over the stacking actions of El Salvador recorded for eternity onto the Bitcoin blockchain." Historically, such purchases have provided bullish price support during downturns.