BitMEX co-founder Arthur Hayes casts doubt on whether the U.S. government will increase its Bitcoin holdings, citing political challenges and public perception as barriers. He believes that expanding their reserve through additional purchases would face significant resistance due to the existing political optics and potentially controversial portrayal of Bitcoin users as ‘club-hopping’ tech enthusiasts. 18 billion dollars worth of seized BTC currently make up the U.S.’s official holdings. These were acquired from various enforcement actions including Silk Road, Bitfinex, and others, and Hayes argues that such an action would likely spark backlash from a wide range of public opinion. He questions whether this move aligns with the government’s long-term political strategy. While Trump’s March 6 executive order sparked discussions about potential future purchases, the market remains skeptical of this idea.