The post BlackRock’s Bitcoin Stash Explodes to 781,000 BTC – Second Only to Satoshi appeared on BitcoinEthereumNews.com.

Bitcoin BlackRock has officially overtaken crypto exchanges to become the single largest known holder of Bitcoin, cementing its dominance in the digital asset space. Its iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT) now controls roughly 781,160 BTC, according to on-chain data compiled by CryptoQuant on August 22, 2025. This staggering amount puts BlackRock ahead of Coinbase, which holds about 703,110 BTC, and Binance, with roughly 558,070 BTC. The only entity believed to possess more is Bitcoin’s mysterious creator, Satoshi Nakamoto, whose 1.1 million BTC remain untouched since the network’s earliest days. A Supply Shock in the Making The milestone marks a profound change in how Bitcoin is held and accumulated. While exchanges have historically served as liquidity hubs for active traders, ETF reserves function differently: coins custodied in IBIT are effectively locked out of circulation. Analysts argue this creates a deepening supply squeeze, reducing the available float for buyers and strengthening Bitcoin’s long-term price foundation. Investor behavior is shifting accordingly. Instead of parking funds on platforms like Coinbase or Binance, more participants are opting for regulated, institutionally managed products. This preference for custodial security and regulatory oversight is redefining the balance of power within the crypto ecosystem. BlackRock’s Expanding Crypto Empire The development comes just days after reports confirmed BlackRock’s total crypto exposure had surpassed $100 billion. As of mid-August, its portfolio included $89.27 billion in Bitcoin (743,310 BTC) and $14.71 billion in Ethereum (3.2 million ETH). The surge underscores BlackRock’s rapid ascent as the dominant player in digital assets — a position bolstered by relentless inflows into IBIT. With its holdings now eclipsing major exchanges, the firm has emerged as the primary custodian of institutional Bitcoin demand. Fidelity Joins the Race Competition, however, is intensifying. Fidelity has expanded its presence through the Fidelity Bitcoin ETF (FBTC) and Fidelity Ethereum ETF (FETH). Combined,…

---

Filed under: News - @ August 23, 2025 1:28 am