Tether increased its Bitcoin holdings toward the end of 2025, expanding its long-term reserve asset to preserve value over time.
In a post on X, CEO Paolo Ardoino revealed that the company purchased approximately 8,888.9 BTC during the fourth quarter. However, blockchain data suggests the buying may have been even more extensive.
On-chain analysis indicates total acquisitions of roughly 9,850 BTC over the period. At prevailing market prices, the combined purchases were valued at about $876 million.
Gradual Buying Signals Strategic Timing
Notably, Tether accumulated Bitcoin incrementally, thereby building reserves over time. For instance, the first major move occurred on November 7, 2025, when blockchain records show Tether withdrew 961 BTC from Bitfinex, worth approximately $97.18 million.
Subsequently, the accumulation continued into the new year, culminating on January 1, 2026, with the transfer of 8,888.8 BTC into Tether’s primary reserve wallet. On-chain data valued this final transfer at nearly $778 million.
Tether Reserve Wallet Enters Top Global Ranks
Following these transactions, Tether’s main Bitcoin address expanded significantly. The wallet now holds 96,185 BTC worth $8.42 billion. This places the address among the five largest known Bitcoin wallets globally.
The company has consistently emphasized that Bitcoin is not held as a trading asset. Instead, it is a long-term treasury reserve. Tether has disclosed that surplus operational profits are routinely allocated to Bitcoin purchases, highlighting its long-term confidence. This strategy also sees Bitcoin as a hedge rather than a speculative investment.
Gold Holdings Reinforce Reserve Strategy
Bitcoin is not the only asset shaping Tether’s reserve profile. The company has also expanded its exposure to physical gold, diversifying its store-of-value strategy.
A Jefferies research note published last month estimated that Tether holds approximately 116 metric tons of gold, an amount comparable to the reserves of countries such as South Korea, Hungary, and Greece. The investment bank added that no private entity is believed to hold more gold than Tether.
The bank estimated that Tether accounted for around 2% of global gold demand in the previous quarter, with nearly 12% of central bank gold purchases attributed to the company.
Taken together, Tether’s expanding Bitcoin and gold reserves point to a deliberate and consistent strategy. Rather than pursuing short-term gains, the company is building a balance sheet strengthened by long-term stores of value.
DisClamier: This content is informational and should not be considered financial advice. The views expressed in this article may include the author's personal opinions and do not reflect The Crypto Basic opinion. Readers are encouraged to do thorough research before making any investment decisions. The Crypto Basic is not responsible for any financial losses.
