Coinbase Market Implications: DOJ Confirms No Bitcoin Sales from Samourai Wallet Forfeiture
In a significant development for cryptocurrency market stability, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has officially confirmed that it has not liquidated any of the Bitcoin forfeited in the high-profile Samourai Wallet case. This clarification comes directly from Patrick Witt, executive director of the White House President's Council of Advisors for Digital Assets, who stated that the DOJ verified the assets remain intact. According to Witt, these seized Bitcoin holdings will be transferred to and held within the newly established Strategic Bitcoin Reserve, a move that signals a structured governmental approach to managing confiscated digital assets. The announcement effectively dispels widespread market rumors that had circulated among blockchain analysts and trading communities, speculation that had created uncertainty about potential large-scale Bitcoin sell-offs impacting exchange liquidity and prices. For platforms like Coinbase, this confirmation provides much-needed clarity regarding supply-side pressures, as the market had been nervously anticipating the possible release of these substantial forfeited holdings into the circulating supply. The establishment of the Strategic Bitcoin Reserve itself represents a notable institutional development, suggesting a longer-term custodial strategy rather than immediate asset liquidation. This decision likely reflects considerations about market stability, legal processes, and potentially the strategic value of holding Bitcoin as a reserve asset. The news reinforces the growing institutional framework around digital assets and may bolster investor confidence by demonstrating measured governmental handling of crypto-related legal proceedings. For exchanges, the reduced uncertainty around large, state-held sell-offs allows for more predictable market planning and risk assessment.
DOJ Confirms No Bitcoin Sales from Samourai Wallet Forfeiture Amid Market Speculation
The US Department of Justice has not liquidated any of the bitcoin forfeited in the Samourai Wallet case, according to a White House crypto advisor. Patrick Witt, executive director of the WHITE House President’s Council of Advisors for Digital Assets, stated the DOJ confirmed the assets remain intact and will be held in the Strategic Bitcoin Reserve.
Market rumors had swirled after blockchain analysts spotted a 57.5 BTC transfer from a government-controlled wallet to a Coinbase Prime address. The movement fueled speculation about potential sales, with critics citing Executive Order 14233—signed by former President Trump—as a possible framework for such actions.
The clarification underscores the government’s cautious approach to managing seized crypto assets. Bitcoin’s status as a strategic reserve asset appears reinforced, though questions linger about the purpose of the flagged transaction.
US Government Retains Seized Bitcoin from Samourai Wallet Case in Strategic Reserve
The White House has confirmed that 57.55 BTC (approximately $6.3 million) seized in the Samourai Wallet forfeiture case remains unsold and will be held in the US Strategic Bitcoin Reserve. This follows Executive Order 14233, signed by former President Donald Trump in March 2025, which mandates holding confiscated Bitcoin rather than liquidating it.
Speculation arose after blockchain analysts observed transfers to a Coinbase Prime address, prompting fears of a government sell-off that could pressure markets. Patrick Witt, a senior WHITE House crypto adviser, clarified via social media that the Department of Justice confirmed no disposal occurred. "They will remain on the USG balance sheet as part of the SBR," he stated, referencing the reserve policy.
CLARITY Act Faces Risk as White House Clashes With Coinbase Over Stablecoin Yields
The CLARITY Act, a pivotal U.S. crypto market structure bill, is now embroiled in controversy as the White House threatens to withdraw support following Coinbase's exit from negotiations. The dispute centers on stablecoin yield rules, with traditional banks lobbying to restrict crypto platforms from offering rewards on assets like USDC—a move Coinbase vehemently opposes.
Bank of America CEO Brian Moynihan warns yield-bearing stablecoins could divert up to $6 trillion in deposits from banks, destabilizing lending markets. Coinbase, which generates significant revenue from its 3–4% USDC rewards program, argues such restrictions WOULD stifle competition and harm crypto adoption. The standoff risks further delaying U.S. crypto regulation amid an already fractious policy landscape.
