Swiss National Bank Increases Stake in MicroStrategy, Total Holdings Exceed $150 Million
In a significant show of confidence in the digital asset sector, the Swiss National Bank (SNB) has sharply increased its investment in MicroStrategy Incorporated, taking its total holdings in the company to over $150 million. This development comes amid rising investor interest in companies that offer exposure to Bitcoin and digital assets more broadly.
As the central bank of Switzerland, SNB manages one of the most conservative and closely watched investment portfolios in the world. When a traditionally risk-averse institution like SNB increases its position in a single equity—especially one as closely tied to the volatile cryptocurrency market as MicroStrategy—it’s worth paying attention.
A Bold Bet on a Bitcoin-Heavy Company
MicroStrategy, a U.S.-based business intelligence firm, has made headlines over the last few years for transforming its treasury strategy by accumulating large amounts of Bitcoin. Under the leadership of co-founder and Executive Chairman Michael Saylor, the company has acquired over 214,000 Bitcoins as of early 2025, making it the largest corporate holder of the digital asset.
By increasing its holdings in MicroStrategy, the Swiss National Bank is indirectly increasing its exposure to Bitcoin—without holding the cryptocurrency directly. This approach appears to be a calculated way for the bank to participate in the growth potential of digital assets, while still operating within a traditional equity framework.
Details of the Investment
As of late 2024, SNB increased its stake in MicroStrategy by over 900%, purchasing more than 421,000 additional shares. This aggressive move brought its total holdings to over 468,000 shares, with a market value that exceeded $78 million at that time.
Since then, with the continued rise in MicroStrategy’s stock price—driven by both the company’s growing Bitcoin stash and strong market performance—the total value of SNB’s investment has now surpassed $150 million.
This dual rise in both the number of shares held and their market value suggests deliberate accumulation. Rather than riding an early wave of gains, the Swiss National Bank has been actively adding to its position as prices climbed, a signal of conviction in both the company’s strategy and the long-term viability of digital assets.
Why MicroStrategy?
MicroStrategy represents a unique combination of a traditional technology company and a proxy Bitcoin investment. For institutions that are cautious about directly holding crypto assets, owning MicroStrategy shares offers a pathway to gain exposure without the regulatory complications of directly storing or transacting in Bitcoin.
Additionally, MicroStrategy’s core business remains strong. The company continues to offer analytics and enterprise software services while using its Bitcoin holdings to enhance shareholder value. Its dual approach—traditional business combined with a high-profile crypto strategy—has made it a magnet for both tech-focused and crypto-curious investors.
Broader Implications
The Swiss National Bank’s decision to increase its holdings in MicroStrategy carries significant weight. Central banks typically adhere to strict investment principles, focusing on stability, liquidity, and long-term returns. The fact that SNB would make such a bold move suggests a shift in how central banks view digital assets—not as speculative gambles, but as emerging components of the global financial system.
This trend could prompt other central banks, sovereign wealth funds, and large institutions to reevaluate their positions on cryptocurrencies and the companies aligned with them. While it’s unlikely that most central banks will rush to buy Bitcoin directly, investments in equities like MicroStrategy may serve as a first step toward broader institutional engagement with digital finance.
A Conservative Institution Adapting to a New Era
SNB’s broader investment portfolio includes significant stakes in traditional tech giants such as Apple, NVIDIA, and Amazon. With a U.S. equity portfolio valued at over $150 billion, SNB is no stranger to the dynamics of global markets. However, its move into MicroStrategy signals an evolution—one that combines its established strategy with a willingness to explore new financial frontiers.
As more central banks and regulatory bodies explore digital currencies, blockchain infrastructure, and crypto investment vehicles, institutions like SNB are setting a precedent. They’re demonstrating that traditional finance and digital innovation don’t have to exist in separate spheres—they can coexist in well-structured, risk-managed portfolios.
Final Thoughts
The Swiss National Bank’s increased investment in MicroStrategy tells us several important things. First, it shows growing institutional trust in companies that embrace digital asset strategies. Second, it reflects a calculated approach to diversification—one that acknowledges the transformative potential of blockchain technology and cryptocurrencies. And third, it illustrates that even the most conservative financial institutions are willing to adapt when the market evolution makes the case too compelling to ignore.
As we continue to watch how digital assets reshape global finance, moves like this serve as powerful indicators. They show us that we are no longer just speculating on future possibilities—we’re witnessing real-world adoption, backed by major institutional capital. And in that context, SNB’s bet on MicroStrategy could be seen as much more than a portfolio decision—it may be a milestone in the mainstreaming of digital assets.
ALSO READ: EU Fines Apple, Meta Under DMA in Landmark Tech Crackdown
