The latest downturn in the cryptocurrency market has reignited debate about whether publicly traded companies can safely rely on Bitcoin as their primary balance-sheet asset.
Key Takeaways:
- Peter Schiff says BTC-centric companies are vulnerable in downturns.
- Strategy is highlighted as the most exposed example.
- Losing access to capital markets is flagged as the biggest risk.
The discussion resurfaced after economist Peter Schiff argued that the business strategy adopted by several firms leaves them exposed to the same volatility that affects BTC itself.
Rather than criticizing Bitcoin’s price performance directly, Schiff pointed to the corporate structure behind companies that have adopted the “Bitcoin treasury” approach. He claims these firms lack insulation from market cycles because their valuation rises and falls almost exclusively with the price of BTC.
Schiff Raises Concerns Over Strategy’s Reliance on Bitcoin
The economist used Strategy (formerly MicroStrategy) as the primary example of the risk he sees. Schiff believes the company’s stock no longer offers investors meaningful advantages compared with simply holding Bitcoin in a personal portfolio.
He also highlighted that the firm’s equity price has fallen roughly 65% over the past year, suggesting that the company is now trading almost entirely as a proxy for BTC rather than as an operating business.
His main criticism centers on the financing model. Strategy has historically acquired Bitcoin by issuing new shares and preferred stock. Schiff warned that, if Strategy’s market valuation ever drops below the value of the BTC it holds, the company may lose its ability to raise capital — which would block future Bitcoin purchases and significantly weaken the business.
Market Downturn Creates Additional Pressure for BTC-Based Balance Sheets
Schiff’s comments come during a difficult stretch for institutional Bitcoin exposure. Outflows from BTC-related ETFs, slower demand from retail buyers, and a broad pullback across risk markets have contributed to the recent price decline. Bitcoin temporarily fell below $85,000, reached $80,537, and later stabilized near $84,000 at the time of reporting.
Several analysts have warned that the sell-off could represent the early stage of a longer corrective phase rather than a brief retracement. This adds further stress for companies whose financial performance and access to capital are tied closely to Bitcoin price movements.
A Larger Question for Bitcoin-Focused Corporations
Schiff’s argument does not revolve around whether Bitcoin will rise or fall in the long term. Instead, it raises a structural issue: can a corporation that treats Bitcoin as its core business remain viable through sharp downturns? The sustainability of the Bitcoin treasury model may ultimately depend on whether capital markets remain willing to finance these firms during periods of market decline.
For now, Bitcoin trades near $84,171, and the resilience of BTC-centric corporate strategies will be tested as long as market volatility remains elevated.
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Alex is an experienced financial journalist and cryptocurrency enthusiast. With over 8 years of experience covering the crypto, blockchain, and fintech industries, he is well-versed in the complex and ever-evolving world of digital assets. His insightful and thought-provoking articles provide readers with a clear picture of the latest developments and trends in the market. His approach allows him to break down complex ideas into accessible and in-depth content. Follow his publications to stay up to date with the most important trends and topics.