US Strategic Bitcoin Reserve Update Nears as White House Adviser Signals Breakthrough

White House digital assets adviser Patrick Witt has confirmed that an announcement on the US Strategic Bitcoin Reserve is expected soon, calling recent developments a “breakthrough” in building the system. The reserve was created in March 2025 through an executive order signed by President Donald Trump.

The structure is based mainly on Bitcoin seized through government asset forfeitures, with authority to acquire more BTC using budget-neutral methods. Witt said legal and custody issues around the reserve have now largely been resolved.

Reserve May Hold Up to 328,000 BTC

Reports suggest the Strategic Bitcoin Reserve could potentially hold between 198,000 and 328,000 BTC, depending on finalized allocations and legal outcomes. Witt clarified that not all seized Bitcoin will be included, as some assets may be returned to victims through court-ordered restitution during ongoing legal proceedings.

He also stressed that Bitcoin held in active cases remains in pending status until forfeiture is finalized.

Patrick Witt Says Announcement Is Imminent

Witt has repeatedly said in recent weeks that an official update is coming soon. Earlier he stated the administration is finalizing legal interpretations and custody frameworks to secure government held Bitcoin properly.

In a recent discussion, he said the work ensures digital assets are “legally sound” and safely managed on the government balance sheet.

Push to Codify Bitcoin Reserve Into Law

Witt also highlighted that the executive order alone is temporary and expires with a change in administration. He said Congress must pass legislation to secure the reserve long-term.

He pointed to ongoing bills including the BITCOIN Act and the American Reserves Modernization Act as efforts to formally establish the US government’s Bitcoin strategy in law.