Norway’s Bitcoin Exposure Surges With $500M MicroStrategy Stake

• Norway’s wealth fund boosts its Bitcoin exposure via MicroStrategy, holding $500M+ in shares, marking a 153% yearly increase.
• NBIM’s stake in Bitcoin firms like Riot and Coinbase signals growing institutional crypto adoption, reshaping traditional portfolios.
• MicroStrategy and Metaplanet’s bold Bitcoin strategies fuel mainstream adoption, reinforcing BTC’s role in corporate finance.

According to Bitcoin Magazine, MicroStrategy assets totaling approximately $500 million boosted Norway’s public wealth fund’s indirect exposure to Bitcoin. Their current Bitcoin exposure is 3,821 BTC, up 153% from the previous year. Furthermore, Norges Bank Investment Management (NBIM) owns stock in Riot, MARA, Coinbase, Canaan, and Metaplanet, among other startups. 

The Growing Bitcoin Holdings in Norway

Government Pension Fund Mostly stocks, bonds, and real estate, Global’s holdings total more than $1.5 trillion, making it one of the largest sovereign wealth funds. Nevertheless, investments in Bitcoin-related enterprises have raised their profile.

NBIM owns 0.72% of MicroStrategy’s shares. This translates to 3,214.08 BTC in indirect exposure. The firm increased its stock ownership from 1.12 million to 1.58 million shares between June and December 2024. However, its percentage stake dropped from 0.89% due to share dilution.

Besides MicroStrategy, the fund holds shares in other Bitcoin-centric companies. Notably, Riot, MARA, Coinbase, Canaan, and Metaplanet contribute to its crypto exposure. Consequently, Bitcoin is being included whether on purpose or not, in a variety of investment portfolios.

Bitcoin’s Integration Into Institutional Investments

Vetle Lunde, K33’s Head of Research, emphasized that this exposure results from rule-based sector allocation rather than direct Bitcoin accumulation. Additionally, MicroStrategy’s strategic Bitcoin accumulation plays a key role in this development. Its “21/21 plan” aims to raise $42 billion for further bitcoin acquisitions. This aggressive strategy reinforces Bitcoin’s role as a corporate treasury asset.

Similarly, Metaplanet has ambitious Bitcoin plans. The company seeks to amass 21,000 BTC by 2026. Presently, it holds 1,762 BTC, representing 15% of its market cap. Moreover, its long-term goal is to become a Bitcoin-centric bank, capitalizing on digital asset adoption.