President Trump’s Crypto Director Confirms Gold Certificates Reassessment for Bitcoin Acquisition

Robert “Bo” Hines, Executive Director of the Presidential Council of Advisers on Digital Assets, discussed budget-neutral Bitcoin acquisition strategies in the inaugural episode of the Crypto In America podcast.

Establishment of Bitcoin Reserve

Recently, President Donald Trump signed an executive order to establish the Strategic Bitcoin Reserve (SBR) and a Digital Assets National Stockpile for altcoins. The order places the U.S. government’s existing Bitcoin holdings, about 198,109 BTC worth approximately $17 billion, into the SBR. The government aims to acquire future Bitcoin through “budget-neutral” means, prompting questions about potential strategies.

Selling Gold Certificates for Bitcoin

Eleanor Terrett, a journalist from the podcast, inquired about specific budget-neutral strategies. Hines referenced Senator Cynthia Lummis’s BITCOIN Act of 2025, explaining that the government could reassess its gold certificates, valued at around $172 per ounce. Recognizing gains from this reassessment could fund additional Bitcoin purchases, making it a budget-neutral approach.

Consideration of Fort Knox Gold

Terrett asked if selling Fort Knox gold for Bitcoin was feasible. Hines replied that if such a sale remained budget-neutral and did not burden taxpayers, it could be considered. He emphasized the administration’s willingness to explore creative solutions through an interagency group to acquire more Bitcoin.

Exploring Other Cryptocurrencies

The discussion also touched on other cryptocurrencies like Ethereum, XRP, Solana, and Cardano. Hines underscored Bitcoin’s unique classification as a commodity, attributing its special status to its intrinsic stored value and widespread acceptance. This classification led to the establishment of two separate reserves for Bitcoin and other digital assets.

Hines explained that the selected cryptocurrencies were based on market capitalization, reinforcing the administration’s support for broader innovation in the crypto space while acknowledging Bitcoin’s foundational role.