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US Official Says Seized Bitcoin From Samourai Case Was Not Sold

According to a senior White House crypto adviser, the Bitcoin tied to the Samourai Wallet forfeiture was not liquidated by federal authorities. The belongings will stay held by the federal government beneath its strategic reserve plan, the adviser stated on social media.

White House Advisor Confirms No Sale

Reports have disclosed that about 57.55 BTC — roughly $6.3 million at current costs — moved by addresses that some observers tracked, which sparked claims the cash had been offered.

The White House adviser, Patrick Witt, stepped in to clear up the matter, saying the Department of Justice confirmed there was no sale.

The cash will probably be stored within the Strategic Bitcoin Reserve consistent with Executive Order 14233, signed in March 2025 by US President Donald Trump. That order directs that seized Bitcoin be held somewhat than auctioned off.

Movement Of Coins Triggered Questions

Based on stories from blockchain analysts, a switch to a Coinbase Prime deal with led to hypothesis a couple of disposal. Market watchers seen the path and raised alarms as a result of a sale might have put additional downward stress on costs.

Some merchants reacted shortly to the noise. But officers clarify that transfers between custody techniques don’t all the time imply liquidation. In this case, the DOJ and associated companies say the switch was an inner custody step and never a sale to non-public consumers.

Background On The Case

The authorized motion in opposition to the Samourai Wallet builders centered on fees tied to working an unlicensed money-transmitting service and aiding cash laundering by mixer instruments.

Those charged pleaded responsible. The forfeiture order adopted these convictions, and the Bitcoin in query grew to become a part of the belongings the federal government controls after the court docket rulings.

How the federal government manages such holdings has been a fast-moving coverage subject since Executive Order 14233 was issued, which set new guidelines for seized crypto.

Policy And Market Effects

According to officers, holding seized Bitcoin in a nationwide reserve is supposed to keep away from sudden market shocks that might observe giant authorities gross sales.

Some critics argue the reserve offers the federal government a strong monetary device, whereas supporters say it prevents risky swings.

The announcement eased some short-term market worries as a result of uncertainty a couple of potential sale had been cited as a possible stress level for crypto costs.

Reactions From Industry Observers

Based on stories and social posts from crypto advocates, opinions stay cut up. Some welcomed the clarification as stabilizing.

Others need extra transparency on how the Strategic Bitcoin Reserve will probably be run and when, if ever, cash may depart it.

Lawmakers on each side of the aisle might ask for hearings or written briefings to get clearer solutions about custody practices and future plans.

Featured picture from Unsplash, chart from TradingView

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