Bitcoin’s Rise as a Leading Asset
Al Jazeera reports that Bitcoin has established itself as one of the most successful assets in recent history. With cryptocurrency values skyrocketing by approximately 1,000 times over the past ten years, it was inevitable that governments and financial institutions would seek to engage with this emerging market. Launched in the aftermath of the 2008 global financial crisis, Bitcoin was initially regarded as a “speculative asset devoid of real value.” However, it is now taken seriously by governments, financial entities, and investors, leading to significant implications for politics, the economy, and everyday life.
Countries Embracing Cryptocurrency
In recent years, several nations have made substantial investments in cryptocurrency. Notably, El Salvador has accumulated over $600 million in Bitcoin reserves and has recognized it as legal tender from 2021 through 2025. This move illustrates a growing acceptance of digital currencies on a national level.
Shifts in U.S. Policy Toward Cryptocurrency
The return of Donald Trump to the White House has signaled a positive change in the United States regarding the recognition of cryptocurrency as a legitimate form of currency, especially after a prolonged period of government crackdowns on the sector. In January 2024, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission granted approval for Bitcoin spot exchange-traded funds (ETFs), which monitor real-time market fluctuations rather than relying on futures. This development provided investors with their first opportunity to engage with Bitcoin through the stock market.
Support for Crypto in South Korea
Spot crypto ETFs also garnered bipartisan backing in South Korea during the 2025 elections, according to The Block. Lee Jae-myung, the eventual winner from the center-left Democratic Party, expressed that crypto funds would create more opportunities for the younger population of South Korea.
Political Donations and Cryptocurrency
Nigel Farage has shown his open support for cryptocurrency, making Reform the first political party in the UK to accept Bitcoin donations, as reported by the BBC. A noteworthy £9 million donation from British businessman Christopher Harborne, the largest single donation from a living individual to a British political party, has sparked discussions about the influence cryptocurrency investors might wield in upcoming elections.
Ethical Concerns in the Crypto Sphere
In Trump’s Washington, cryptocurrency is becoming increasingly prominent, as noted by The Economist. Appointees under Trump are adopting a more lenient stance toward the sector, leading to a surge in investor interest, while pro-crypto lobbying groups are backing candidates who align with their views. The Trump family’s promotion of cryptocurrency, including the January launch of the $TRUMP coin—primarily owned by companies linked to them—highlights a notable financial interest in the space. However, the potential for “clear conflicts of interest” poses risks that could ultimately negatively impact the industry.
Concerns Over Foreign Influence in the UK
Trump’s involvement in cryptocurrency is part of a broader array of ethical entanglements that government watchdogs have been warning about for years, as reported by The Guardian. A significant concern is that foreign entities could gain influence over the president by investing in his cryptocurrency ventures. In the UK, government officials are wary that cryptocurrency donations could compromise the integrity of the electoral process. The challenge lies in tracing the ownership of crypto wallets based overseas, which could potentially allow foreign powers or criminals to exert influence. Efforts are underway to draft legislation banning cryptocurrency donations in elections, but the intricate nature of digital currencies suggests that such proposals may not be ready in time for the next Elections Bill.
