As efforts to recognize Bitcoin as an official reserve asset gain momentum in the U.S., European Central Bank (ECB) President Christine Lagarde has explicitly stated that Bitcoin will not be included in the European Union's reserves. Lagarde emphasized that reserve assets must be liquid, secure, and stable, highlighting the importance of protecting the financial system from risks such as money laundering.
This statement comes at a time when the number of U.S. states accepting Bitcoin as a reserve asset is rapidly increasing. Most recently, the state of Illinois introduced a bill proposing Bitcoin as a treasury asset. Under the proposal, Bitcoin holdings would be maintained for at least five years before being used according to the state’s financial plans.
Illinois is not alone in considering Bitcoin as a reserve asset. Other states, including Arizona, Texas, and Utah, have also begun discussing similar initiatives. Lagarde’s remarks further clarify the global divide on whether Bitcoin should be recognized as a reserve asset.
