Emily Walker
Alabama State Auditor Andrew Sorrell has made headlines by proposing the creation of a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve (SBR). This suggestion arises amid increasing interest in SBRs from policymakers at both state and federal levels, particularly following a significant rise in Bitcoin’s price, influenced by President-elect Donald Trump’s pro-Bitcoin campaign.
In an interview with 1819 News, Sorrell asserted that the discussion on the viability of cryptocurrencies has concluded: “The debate over whether crypto will succeed has ended.” He emphasized that digital assets offer a vital opportunity for states to diversify their investment portfolios, noting that crypto is now a $3 trillion market where Alabama has no current investment exposure.
Potential for Alabama’s Strategic Bitcoin Reserve Bill
Sorrell outlined three main objectives for creating an SBR: enhancing portfolio diversity, positioning Alabama as a crypto-friendly state, and safeguarding against potential currency risks. He posed critical questions regarding the implications if the U.S. dollar were to lose its status as the world’s reserve currency or if inflation surged again, noting that Bitcoin’s value remains largely unaffected by the dollar’s fluctuations. He believes this initiative could bolster the state’s financial standing and provide collateral for future debt needs.
This initiative aligns with broader national trends. Following the recent 50% increase in Bitcoin’s value since the election, President-elect Trump has expressed intentions for a “national Bitcoin stockpile.” His discussions with leading crypto executives and plans for the 207,189 BTC seized by the U.S. government—accounting for over 1% of the total global supply—add momentum to this movement.
In Congress, Wyoming’s Senator Cynthia Lummis has introduced the BITCOIN Act, which would mandate the U.S. Treasury to develop a strategic Bitcoin reserve.
States are also stepping up. Florida is considering its SBR amid plans to allocate 1% of its pension fund—around $1.85 billion—into Bitcoin by early 2025. Additionally, Pennsylvania has proposed its SBR Act, potentially investing up to 10% of its General Fund in digital assets. Alabama may soon follow suit, heightening competition among states for Bitcoin investments.
Sorrell observed that states are likely encountering fewer regulatory obstacles when purchasing Bitcoin compared to prior years, particularly after the SEC allowed exchange-traded funds (ETFs). He mentioned, “States can invest in crypto as simply as they can buy stocks through a brokerage.”
He also recommended that Alabama’s SBR could mimic the federal strategy promised by Trump. “We can model Alabama’s Bitcoin reserve on the anticipated federal American Strategic Bitcoin Reserve,” he stated. The government’s existing BTC, estimated to be worth $20 billion, was intended for sale but is now intended to be retained and potentially expanded under Trump’s leadership.
While enthusiastic, Sorrell cautioned about the approach, advocating for a two-year dollar-cost-averaging strategy to minimize entry timing risks due to Bitcoin’s volatility, especially given its recent surge past $100,000.
“A prudent framework would be to dollar-cost-average over two years. With Bitcoin at over $100,000, entering during a bull market might not be ideal,” he explained, suggesting that consistent monthly investments could stabilize the average purchase price.
Echoing sentiments from the Bitcoin MENA Conference, Sorrell presented an ambitious price projection: “The aim is to establish a reserve, not for quick profits,” he emphasized the value of a long-term investment perspective. “It’s highly likely Bitcoin will reach $1 million per coin in the future. Those who have successfully navigated Bitcoin investment have generally held their assets long-term.”
As of this report, Bitcoin is valued at $97,607.