Rumors swirled across the crypto community this week suggesting that the U.S. government had quietly offloaded nearly $20 billion worth of Bitcoin—sparking speculation of a covert sell-off and potential market shock. But according to on-chain data and blockchain intelligence platforms, those claims don’t hold up.
The speculation began after a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) response confirmed that the U.S. Marshals Service currently holds around 28,988 BTC, worth approximately $3.4 billion. Many questioned what had happened to the rest of the U.S. government’s reported Bitcoin holdings—estimated at over 198,000 BTC, worth $23.5 billion.
However, data from Arkham Intelligence and other blockchain tracking tools show that the wallets controlled by U.S. federal agencies—including the Department of Justice, FBI, DEA, and USMS—have remained dormant for over four months. There is no evidence of recent large-scale transfers or sales.
Despite the lack of activity, the rumors were enough to stir anxiety in some corners of the market. A government liquidation of even a portion of its holdings could send significant shockwaves through Bitcoin’s price. But with the assets likely tied up in legal proceedings or awaiting policy decisions, experts suggest the government is taking a more cautious approach.
In the broader picture, Bitcoin has remained relatively stable amid the speculation, trading around $118,000, with minimal volatility over the past week. Analysts now turn their attention to regulatory developments, especially the July 30 report from the presidential task force on digital assets, which could shape the future of crypto policy in the U.S.
Despite the chatter, there’s no evidence that the U.S. government has sold its Bitcoin holdings. The $20 billion dump appears to be nothing more than a rumor—at least for now.
