El Salvador keeps buying BTC despite IMF agreement

El Salvador has added 240 BTC since its IMF deal in December 2024. The government remains technically compliant while maintaining daily Bitcoin purchases.

El Salvador buys 240 BTC since IMF agreement

Despite a $1.4 billion loan agreement with the IMF discouraging Bitcoin accumulation, El Salvador has continued its daily crypto purchases. From December 19, 2024, to date, the nation has added 240 BTC to its treasury wallet, which now holds 6,209 BTC, according to the Bitcoin Office of El Salvador.

The policy of buying one Bitcoin per day, introduced by President Nayib Bukele in 2022, is still in effect.

Technical compliance with IMF terms

IMF official Rodrigo Valdes confirmed that El Salvador remains technically compliant with the agreement. “The government continues to comply with non-accumulation through the fiscal sector,” Valdes stated in April 2025.

Experts like blockchain adviser Anndy Lian believe that the country’s flexible interpretation allows Bitcoin purchases via non-public entities or reclassified assets, preserving compliance while reinforcing its crypto-positive stance.

Crypto remittances decline sharply

While the national treasury grows, crypto remittance volumes are shrinking. In Q1 2025, crypto remittances totaled just $16 million — a 44.5% drop from $28.3 million in Q1 2024. They now represent just 0.52% of total remittances, compared to 1.08% last year.

This suggests a cooling interest in crypto for cross-border payments, even as El Salvador doubles down on its Bitcoin reserves.