El Salvador Bitcoin pressure is growing as the International Monetary Fund (IMF) renews its call for the country to scale back its crypto strategy. Under a $1.4 billion loan agreement, the IMF wants El Salvador to stop buying Bitcoin and shut down its Chivo wallet by the end of July.
IMF Demands Freeze on Bitcoin Holdings
The IMF has officially asked El Salvador to limit government participation in Bitcoin. An IMF official said the country should not increase its crypto reserves.
“We continue to advocate for no further Bitcoin accumulation across state wallets,” the spokesperson said.
The IMF has long been critical of El Salvador’s use of Bitcoin. But now it ties these concerns to a large financial deal, increasing the pressure on the government.
El Salvador Bitcoin Pressure Meets Bukele’s Resistance
Despite warnings, President Nayib Bukele refuses to stop. Just hours after the IMF statement, the government bought more Bitcoin. Bukele’s administration continues its policy of buying one BTC per day.
“We’re not stopping. We are building for the future,” Bukele said.
Official records show that El Salvador now holds more than 6,190 BTC. Over the past 30 days, the country added 30 BTC through the Bitcoin Office. Bukele also announced that unrealized profits now exceed $386 million.
Workarounds May Comply with IMF Demands
Some experts suggest El Salvador could still grow its Bitcoin holdings through non-government methods. Blockchain advisor Andy Lian proposed using private organizations to handle purchases. That way, the country stays within the IMF’s rules.
This approach may keep Bitcoin flowing into the country — without official wallet activity.
IMF vs. El Salvador: A Clash Over Crypto Strategy
This El Salvador Bitcoin pressure shows the deep divide between global financial institutions and nations embracing crypto. The IMF sees risk. El Salvador sees opportunity.
While the loan deal moves forward, Bukele seems unwilling to give up Bitcoin. His actions signal a commitment to economic independence — even if it means facing outside resistance.