Norges Bank Investment Management (NBIM), the entity responsible for managing Norway’s $1.4 trillion Sovereign Wealth Fund, has announced a substantial boost in its indirect Bitcoin holdings — up by an impressive 192%. The increase comes through investments in publicly traded companies and funds that hold Bitcoin as part of their treasury reserves.
As the world’s largest sovereign wealth fund, NBIM’s decision reflects a broader shift in sentiment toward digital assets among institutional investors. While the fund does not hold Bitcoin directly due to regulatory constraints, it gains exposure through equity stakes in Bitcoin-heavy corporations such as MicroStrategy, Coinbase, and Bitcoin mining firms.
Analysts suggest that this strategic allocation is driven by Bitcoin’s growing role as a hedge against inflation, a store of value, and a diversification tool in volatile global markets. The move also aligns with a growing trend of sovereign and pension funds exploring indirect crypto investments as a way to balance risk and opportunity.
The 192% increase is also noteworthy given the timing, as it coincides with Bitcoin’s recent price rally and heightened market activity. By expanding its exposure now, NBIM is positioning Norway’s wealth fund to benefit from potential long-term gains in the cryptocurrency sector.
This development is likely to influence other major institutional players, potentially accelerating mainstream adoption of Bitcoin in global finance. With the endorsement of one of the world’s most conservative and respected wealth managers, the perception of Bitcoin as a legitimate asset class continues to strengthen.