MicroStrategy Now Holds 2% of BTC

CRYPTO
MicroStrategy Now Holds 2% of BTC

MicroStrategy, a publicly traded business intelligence firm, has significantly increased its Bitcoin holdings, acquiring 55,000 BTC for $5.4 billion between Nov. 18 and 24 at an average price of $97,862 per coin. According to a Nov. 25 filing, the purchase was funded through recent equity and debt offerings.

This latest acquisition brings the company’s total Bitcoin holdings to 386,700 BTC, purchased at a cumulative cost of $21.9 billion—an average of $56,761 per coin. With Bitcoin nearing $100,000, the firm’s holdings are now worth approximately $38.67 billion, yielding a profit of $16.77 billion.

MicroStrategy’s Bitcoin reserves represent around 2.03% of Bitcoin’s fixed supply of 21 million coins. The company’s continued investment signals its confidence in Bitcoin’s long-term value, fueled by increasing institutional adoption and optimism over potential pro-crypto policies under President-elect Donald Trump’s administration. This strategic move underscores MicroStrategy’s role as a major institutional advocate for Bitcoin.

FINANCE
UK Tax Hikes Force Business Retreat

British firms are grappling with a £40 billion tax increase announced in the U.K.’s recent budget, primarily funded by higher employer national insurance contributions. The Confederation of British Industry (CBI) warns the measures are forcing businesses into “damage control” mode, jeopardizing growth plans.

CBI CEO Rain Newton-Smith, speaking at the group’s annual conference, emphasized the strain on businesses, noting many are cutting costs and reconsidering investments. A survey of 266 firms revealed half are considering job cuts, while nearly two-thirds may freeze hiring.

The tax hikes, coupled with a minimum wage increase, are pushing operating costs higher, threatening to reignite inflation just as it stabilizes. High-profile CEOs, including McVitie’s Salman Amin and Sainsbury’s Simon Roberts, have expressed doubts about the U.K.’s investment appeal under these conditions.

Critics argue targeted taxation on excess profits, rather than broad-based employer levies, would better balance public service funding and economic growth.

WARREN BUFFETT
$84 Trillion Wealth Shift Insights

Warren Buffett, the legendary investor and Berkshire Hathaway CEO, has issued a candid warning to parents about the importance of careful estate planning ahead of the $84 trillion Great Wealth Transfer. Speaking about the inevitable, Buffett stressed that delaying conversations about wills and inheritance could lead to family discord and financial mismanagement.

Buffett, worth over $151 billion, has pledged to give 99% of his wealth to charity. Yet, his advice applies beyond billionaires. He suggests parents discuss their wills with mature children before signing them, ensuring clarity on the logic behind decisions and the responsibilities children will face.

The "Great Wealth Transfer," expected to shift $84 trillion from baby boomers and the silent generation to younger heirs by 2045, has sparked concerns about readiness. Surveys show most Americans lack confidence in managing large inheritances, while misaligned expectations often cause family disputes. Buffett warns against surprises, emphasizing communication to prevent jealousy or misunderstandings.

By openly addressing their plans, Buffett believes families can avoid conflict and even grow closer. His own will reflects this philosophy: enough for children to achieve anything, but not so much that they can do nothing. Buffett’s approach underscores the importance of thoughtful estate planning for families of all wealth levels.

Word of the day
Eddy

An eddy is a current of water or air running contrary to the main current, especially as a whirlpool. In figurative use, eddy may also refer to a contrary or circular current of thought or policy.

DISCLAIMER: None of this is financial advice. This newsletter is strictly educational and is not investment advice or a solicitation to buy or sell any assets or to make any financial decisions. Please be careful and do your own research.