Who Owns the Most Bitcoin: The Largest Bitcoin Wallet Addresses

Whether you’re a crypto newbie or a seasoned rug pull survivor, you may have come across the phrase “1 BTC = 1 BTC” at some point in your crypto life. Seeing as there are only 21 million BTC in existence, your immediate next thought might have been “Who owns the most Bitcoin in the world?” or “I wonder how much BTC the largest Bitcoin wallets hold”. 

Regardless of what currency you prefer, Bitcoin stands as the pioneering digital currency that has captivated the imagination of tech enthusiasts, investors, and financial analysts alike. Its decentralized nature sets it free from the clutches of traditional banking systems. Yet, beneath the surface of Bitcoin’s peer-to-peer network lies a fascinating tale of wealth distribution that raises some intriguing questions about its decentralized promise. 

This guide delves into the realm of Bitcoin’s wealthiest whales (yes, this includes literal countries), shedding light on the top 100 largest Bitcoin wallet addresses. Unveiling who controls the lion’s share of BTC not only illuminates the current landscape of digital wealth but also hints at the potential influence these holders wield over the market’s dynamics. 

So, let’s start with the intricacies of Bitcoin ownership, from the enigmatic figure of Satoshi Nakamoto to contemporary crypto titans, and dissect what this concentration of wealth means for the future of Bitcoin and its ethos of decentralization.

Who Owns the Most Bitcoin?    

Every Bitcoin user needs a Bitcoin wallet. And some people, particularly Bitcoin whales, tend to have multiple wallets. So sometimes, knowing how much BTC an individual has is unclear.

What’s for sure though, is Satoshi Nakamoto, the mystery genius behind Bitcoin, holds the keys to an enormous stash of over 1.1 million BTC. That’s a mind-boggling amount, making Satoshi the biggest whale in the Bitcoin ocean. But owning a massive pile of Bitcoin doesn’t mean Satoshi runs the network. Instead, Bitcoin is decentralized. no single entity, not even its creator, can exert control over the network’s operations or its underlying protocols.

Why’s that? Well, Bitcoin is like a vast, digital democracy. Every transaction in the history of the Bitcoin network is maintained not by one person, but by thousands of users all over the globe. Changes to the network require widespread agreement, ensuring that no individual, not even Nakamoto, can unilaterally alter Bitcoin’s course. This design embodies the principle of a decentralized financial system, where power and control are distributed across its users rather than centralized in the hands of a few. 

Nakamoto’s holdings, while vast, grant them no special privileges or authority over the network, reinforcing Bitcoin’s commitment to decentralization and democratic governance.

Who Are the Biggest Individual Bitcoin Billionaires?

Satoshi Nakamoto

Satoshi Nakamoto, the pseudonymous creator of Bitcoin, is more a legend than a person we can pinpoint. Believed to hold around 1.1 million BTC, a fortune amassed from mining in the cryptocurrency’s infancy, Nakamoto’s stash is a testament to the visionary’s early belief in the project. 

This hoard, untouched since 2010, speaks volumes of Satoshi’s intent for Bitcoin: a decentralized financial system rather than personal wealth. Nakamoto’s true identity and reasons for their anonymity add to the enigma that continues to fascinate the crypto world.

Cameron and Tyler Winklevoss

The Winklevoss twins, Cameron and Tyler, first came into the public eye through their legal battle with Mark Zuckerberg over Facebook’s origins. They then pivoted to cryptocurrency, using part of their settlement to amass a significant Bitcoin wallet, estimated at 70,000 BTC. 

Their early and bullish investment in Bitcoin not only showcased their foresight but also helped them establish Gemini, a leading cryptocurrency exchange. Their journey from Olympic rowers and Harvard grads to crypto pioneers underscores the diverse backgrounds of Bitcoin investors.

Changpeng Zhao (CZ)

Changpeng Zhao, better known as CZ, is the founder and CEO of Binance, the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume. His foray into Bitcoin began when he sold his house in 2014 to buy Bitcoin, a move that underscored his conviction in crypto’s potential. 

While the exact amount of Bitcoin CZ holds isn’t publicly disclosed, his stake in Binance and its vast crypto holdings, coupled with his early investment in Bitcoin, undoubtedly makes him one of the most influential figures in the crypto space.

Tim Draper

Tim Draper, a venture capitalist known for his knack for spotting groundbreaking technology, made headlines in 2014 when he purchased nearly 30,000 BTC seized by the U.S. government from the Silk Road. Draper’s bet on Bitcoin, valued at millions of dollars at the time, was a bold statement of his belief in Bitcoin’s future. His advocacy for cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology has made him a key figure in the space, with his initial investment growing exponentially in value as Bitcoin’s price skyrocketed.

Michael J. Saylor

Michael J. Saylor, CEO of MicroStrategy, transformed his company’s reserve asset strategy by converting a significant portion of its cash reserves into Bitcoin, starting in 2020. Saylor’s aggressive accumulation strategy has resulted in MicroStrategy holding over 129,000 BTC. 

His rationale is based on the belief that Bitcoin represents a superior store of value over fiat currency, especially in an era of monetary inflation. Saylor’s vocal support for Bitcoin has made him a prominent advocate for corporate investment in cryptocurrencies.

Others

Below are a few honorable mentions known for their significant Bitcoin holdings in their wallets. 

Barry Silbert  

Founder and CEO of Digital Currency Group (DCG), which owns Grayscale Investments, a leading digital currency asset management firm. His Bitcoin wealth is indirectly significant through Grayscale’s Bitcoin Trust (GBTC), which holds hundreds of thousands of bitcoins. Silbert is a pioneering investor in the crypto space, with early bets on Bitcoin and other digital assets, contributing to his substantial indirect holdings.

Brian Armstrong  

Co-founder and CEO of Coinbase, one of the largest cryptocurrency exchanges in the world.   While Armstrong’s exact Bitcoin holdings are private, his stake in Coinbase and its holdings, along with his early involvement in crypto, suggest a significant investment in Bitcoin. Armstrong has been a vocal advocate for cryptocurrency adoption and innovation, leading Coinbase since its inception in 2012.

Anthony Pompliano

Co-founder of Morgan Creek Digital, a hedge fund focused on digital assets. Pompliano is known for his bullish stance on Bitcoin, advocating for substantial allocations of investment portfolios in BTC. His personal Bitcoin holdings are speculated to be substantial, given his advocacy, though specific figures are not publicly disclosed.

Roger Ver

Early Bitcoin investor and promoter, often referred to as “Bitcoin Jesus” for his early and vocal advocacy for Bitcoin before focusing on Bitcoin Cash. Ver’s exact current holdings in Bitcoin are not publicly known, as he diversified his investments into Bitcoin Cash and other cryptocurrencies. His early investment in Bitcoin and involvement in the crypto space have amassed him a significant cryptocurrency fortune.

Public Companies Holdings Bitcoin

MicroStrategy

MicroStrategy has embraced Bitcoin as a primary treasury reserve asset, amassing 174,530 BTC, which represents 0.831% of the total Bitcoin supply. The company, led by CEO Michael J. Saylor, has invested approximately $4.68 billion into Bitcoin, valuing their holdings at about $8.73 billion today. Saylor’s strategy reflects a strong belief in Bitcoin as a hedge against inflation and a superior store of value over traditional fiat currencies, positioning MicroStrategy at the forefront of corporate Bitcoin investment.

Galaxy Digital Holdings

Galaxy Digital Holdings, a diversified financial services and investment management company in the digital asset, cryptocurrency, and blockchain technology sector, holds 17,518 BTC. While the entry value isn’t specified, the current value of their holdings is approximately $876 million. Founded by Michael Novogratz, a former hedge fund manager, Galaxy Digital’s Bitcoin investment underscores its commitment to cryptocurrencies as an asset class, aiming to bridge the gap between the digital asset space and institutional investors.

Tesla, Inc.

Tesla, the electric vehicle and clean energy company led by CEO Elon Musk, has incorporated Bitcoin into its investment portfolio with a holding of 10,500 BTC, valued at around $525 million. Initially purchasing $1.5 billion worth of Bitcoin in early 2021 to diversify and maximize returns on cash, Tesla’s foray into Bitcoin investment highlights the growing interest of major corporations in digital currencies as both a speculative investment and a potential future payment method for their products and services.

Others

Marathon Digital Holdings

Marathon Digital Holdings is a US-based company that focuses on mining digital assets. It aims to build the largest mining operation in North America at one of the lowest energy costs. Marathon mines Bitcoin and other digital assets, aiming to leverage the blockchain ecosystem and the security it provides to digital transactions. They invest heavily in Bitcoin mining hardware and technology. Marathon holds 13,716 BTC, with their holdings valued at approximately $686 million. Their investment in Bitcoin is a direct result of their mining operations, reflecting their belief in the long-term value of Bitcoin.

Hut 8 Mining Corp

Hut 8 Mining Corp is one of North America’s oldest, largest, and innovation-focused digital asset miners, headquartered in Canada. The company is engaged in the mining of cryptocurrencies, with a significant focus on Bitcoin, utilizing both green energy and traditional power sources to optimize mining efficiency and sustainability. Hut 8 holds 9,366 BTC, which is currently valued at about $468 million. Their Bitcoin holdings are a result of their ongoing mining efforts, showcasing their commitment to accumulating Bitcoin as a core asset.

Coinbase Global, Inc

Coinbase Global, Inc. is a leading cryptocurrency exchange platform based in the US, offering a wide range of services including trading, staking, and more. Coinbase facilitates the buying, selling, and storage of cryptocurrencies, serving both retail and institutional clients worldwide. It plays a pivotal role in the crypto ecosystem by providing a user-friendly platform for crypto transactions. Coinbase holds 9,181 BTC, valued at around $459 million. Their holdings include operational assets and cryptocurrencies held on behalf of users, demonstrating their integral role in the cryptocurrency market.

Block Inc.

Block Inc., formerly known as Square, is a diverse financial services and mobile payment company founded by Jack Dorsey and Jim McKelvey. Block offers a broad array of financial services, including payment processing, financial and marketing services, and cryptocurrency investments through its Cash App platform. The company has shown a strong interest in integrating cryptocurrency into its payment solutions. Block Inc. owns 8,027 BTC, with a current valuation of approximately $401 million. Their investment in Bitcoin underscores the company’s bullish outlook on cryptocurrency as a significant element of the future financial landscape.

Crypto Exchanges With the Most BTC

Binance

Binance stands as the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, founded in 2017 by Changpeng Zhao (CZ). It has rapidly ascended to the pinnacle of the crypto exchange ecosystem, offering a wide array of services beyond simple trading—such as futures and options trading, a launchpad for new tokens, and even its own blockchain, Binance Smart Chain. Binance’s extensive offerings and global reach have cemented its position as a cornerstone of the cryptocurrency world. Binance currently holds a whopping 643,546 BTC. While specific numbers fluctuate due to the nature of exchange operations, Binance’s Bitcoin holdings are among the largest in the industry, reflecting its significant role in the global crypto market. The exchange is renowned for its liquidity, security measures, and user-friendly platform, attracting a vast user base from beginners to institutional investors.

Bitfinex

Founded in 2012, Bitfinex is one of the oldest and most advanced cryptocurrency exchanges operating today. Headquartered in Hong Kong, it offers sophisticated trading features, such as margin trading with up to 10x leverage, and a suite of order types to cater to high-level traders. Bitfinex has been pivotal in the development of the cryptocurrency market, providing liquidity and a platform for trading a wide range of digital assets. 

As per previous reports, iFinex Inc., the parent company of Bitfinex, is a major Bitcoin holder, possessing 204,338 BTC. Despite facing challenges, including security breaches and regulatory scrutiny, Bitfinex has maintained a loyal user base and holds a significant amount of Bitcoin. Its holdings underscore the trust and scale of operations at Bitfinex, positioning it as a key player in the cryptocurrency exchange landscape.

Coinbase

Coinbase, founded in 2012 by Brian Armstrong and Fred Ehrsam, is renowned for its user-friendly interface and regulatory compliance, making it a gateway for many newcomers to cryptocurrency. As a publicly traded company on the NASDAQ (COIN), it offers an added layer of transparency and trustworthiness. 

As of September 2023, Coinbase was reported to be holding an impressive 1 million Bitcoin. This considerable amount represents nearly 5% of the total circulating Bitcoin supply, according to research conducted by blockchain analytics firm Arkham Intelligence. It’s important to note that while Coinbase manages wallets containing billions of dollars worth of Bitcoin, its actual corporate-owned Bitcoin holdings are estimated at around 10,000 BTC, equivalent to roughly $200 million. The majority of Bitcoin on Coinbase accounts for customer assets rather than the company’s own holdings.

Others

Bybit

As of February 1, 2024, Bybit holds 38,147 BTC. Bybit is a crypto exchange known for offering derivative trading and has been expanding its services to include spot trading, catering to a wide range of crypto traders. 

The exchange’s Bitcoin holdings indicate its substantial liquidity and capability to facilitate large-scale transactions, reinforcing its position in the competitive crypto exchange landscape.

OKX

On January 25, 2024, OKX reported having 147,676 BTC in user asset holdings with a total of 150,860 BTC in OKX wallet assets. This includes 143,675 BTC in exchange wallets and 7,185 BTC in third-party custody. 

The 102% coverage rate of OKX user asset holdings by wallet assets demonstrates the exchange’s commitment to maintaining liquidity and securing assets, highlighting its robustness and reliability in managing a significant volume of Bitcoin, which supports the exchange’s operational integrity and user trust.

Indirect Bitcoin Exposure

As the name suggests, Indirect Bitcoin Exposure refers to investing in assets or financial products that are related to Bitcoin’s performance without owning Bitcoin directly. This can include investing in companies that hold significant amounts of Bitcoin on their balance sheets, buying shares in Bitcoin-focused ETFs (Exchange-Traded Funds), or investing in funds that include Bitcoin or blockchain technology-related companies. 

This approach allows investors to gain exposure to Bitcoin’s price movements and the cryptocurrency market’s potential growth while minimizing some of the risks involved with direct cryptocurrency ownership, such as security and regulatory concerns.

Grayscale by ETFs. Grayscale Bitcoin Trust (GBTC)

The Grayscale Bitcoin Trust (GBTC) is a popular investment vehicle that offers indirect exposure to Bitcoin’s price movements without the need for investors to directly buy or store Bitcoin. Grayscale manages this trust, holding a substantial amount of Bitcoin on behalf of its investors. 

As of February 10, 2024, the Grayscale Bitcoin Trust (GBTC) has significantly expanded its Bitcoin holdings to an impressive 466,534.7 BTC. This substantial accumulation of Bitcoin underscores Grayscale’s commitment to providing investors with a robust and accessible means to gain exposure to Bitcoin through a traditional investment structure. 

The Trust’s strategy to hold a vast amount of Bitcoin directly aligns with its objective to reflect the performance of Bitcoin, less fees and expenses, offering investors a secure and regulated platform to invest in the cryptocurrency market. Grayscale’s proactive approach to managing such a large volume of Bitcoin highlights the growing acceptance and integration of digital assets into mainstream investment portfolios. It also reinforces the trust and confidence investors place in GBTC as a gateway to the digital asset space.

What Country Owns the Most Bitcoin?

Bulgaria

Bulgaria came into the spotlight for its Bitcoin holdings due to law enforcement activities that resulted in the seizure of a considerable amount of Bitcoin from criminal activities. Reports have suggested that at one point, the government held over 200,000 BTC, positioning it as one of the countries with significant Bitcoin assets.

The Ukrainian Government

Ukraine has shown a progressive stance towards cryptocurrency, with government initiatives to legalize and regulate the market. While not one of the largest holders, it has been actively involved in utilizing cryptocurrencies for transactions and funding, particularly in the context of receiving donations and support through digital assets. Since the onset of Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022, Ukraine has seen a remarkable influx of support through cryptocurrency, amassing $225 million in donations, as of Q3 2023. This figure is part of a broader effort that includes billions in fiat donations, with the crypto contributions specifically aiding in the procurement of essential supplies for the war effort. Furthermore, BTC donations totaled up to $41 million of the total $225 million amount at the time of reporting.  

El Salvador

El Salvador has made a significant commitment to Bitcoin, becoming the first country to adopt it as legal tender. As of the latest update, El Salvador’s Bitcoin investment strategy showcases a bold and innovative approach to national financial management. 

The country’s total Bitcoin holdings amount to 2,834 BTC, valued at approximately $120,313,618.41. This investment was made at a total cost of $140,685,952.29, reflecting a positive return of $20,372,333.88, or a 16.93% increase in value. El Salvador’s venture into Bitcoin is not just a financial investment but a strategic move towards financial inclusivity and modernization, leveraging cryptocurrency’s potential to empower its economy and its people.

Finland

Finland’s government came to possess Bitcoin through seizures related to criminal investigations. Like Bulgaria, these holdings are the result of law enforcement actions against illicit activities involving cryptocurrencies. The exact amount held can vary over time as assets are processed and decisions are made regarding their use or sale.

The Georgian Government

While specific details on the Georgian government’s direct Bitcoin holdings may not be widely publicized, Georgia is recognized for its friendly stance towards cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology. The country has a significant number of mining operations due to its low electricity costs, contributing to an environment where both private and potentially governmental engagements with Bitcoin are facilitated.

United States Of America

The United States has emerged as one of the largest holders of Bitcoin globally, with an impressive stash estimated at $5 billion, stemming from approximately 200,000 bitcoins. This significant accumulation is largely attributed to seizures from cybercriminals and darknet market operations. Managed by various federal agencies, including the Justice Department and the IRS, these bitcoins are securely stored offline in hardware wallets. This unique position highlights a contrast between the U.S. government’s role as a major Bitcoin holder and other entities that might speculate on its value, showcasing a strategic yet cautious approach to managing seized digital assets.

Top 20 Largest Bitcoin Wallet Addresses

Of course, the Bitcoin rich list is always changing. If you want accurate information on the current wish list, your best bet is to use a Bitcoin wallet tracker. However, at the time of writing, here are the top 20 richest addresses so far.

Bitcoin Rich List

How Many Bitcoin Wallets Are There?

As of 2024, the landscape of Bitcoin usage and ownership presents a fascinating picture of cryptocurrency’s reach and engagement. With over 460 million Bitcoin addresses created, the scale of Bitcoin’s adoption is significant. However, this number doesn’t directly translate to active users due to the nature of Bitcoin allowing individuals to own multiple wallets. A more telling statistic is the 67 million wallet addresses that hold a balance of at least $1, shedding light on the active participation in the Bitcoin economy. 

This nuanced view underscores the diversity within the Bitcoin community, from users with minimal investment to those deeply ingrained in its market movements. Additionally, the daily transaction count of 371,267 highlights the vibrant activity on the Bitcoin network, though it’s important to note that not all transactions are indicative of unique users, as exchanges and services contribute to this volume. This data provides a snapshot of Bitcoin’s widespread, albeit complex, user base as the cryptocurrency continues to evolve.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sending Bitcoin

What Gives Bitcoin Its Value?

Bitcoin’s value is derived from its limited supply (capped at 21 million coins), the energy and computational power required to mine it, and its growing adoption as a means of payment and store of value. Its decentralized nature and security also contribute significantly to its perceived value.

What Is the Richest Bitcoin Address?

The richest Bitcoin addresses are often those belonging to cryptocurrency exchanges, holding vast amounts of Bitcoin in cold storage on behalf of their users. The exact address changes over time due to the fluid nature of deposits and withdrawals.

Who Owns the Most Bitcoins?

Satoshi Nakamoto, the pseudonymous creator of Bitcoin, is believed to own the most bitcoins, with estimates suggesting over 1 million BTC mined in the early days of the network.

What Country Owns the Most Bitcoin?

It’s challenging to accurately determine which country owns the most Bitcoin due to the cryptocurrency’s decentralized and anonymous nature. However, the United States dominates with 69,640 BTC, accounting for 90.3% of the world’s government-held Bitcoin. This significant holding is largely thanks to the FBI’s seizures, including a notable portion from the Silk Road’s founders and the Bitfinex hack recovery.

What Is the Largest Bitcoin Transaction Ever Made?

One of the largest Bitcoin transactions ever recorded involved moving 500,000 BTC in November 2011. However, large transactions are common on the blockchain and often involve exchanges or large traders moving funds between wallets.