France is taking a bold step toward a new era in financial policy as lawmakers introduce a groundbreaking bill to establish a national Bitcoin reserve. The proposal, led by Éric Ciotti and the Union of the Right and Center Party (UDR), outlines a plan for the French government to acquire around 420,000 BTC—approximately 2% of Bitcoin’s total supply—over the next seven to eight years. If passed, this initiative would make France the first European nation to officially integrate Bitcoin into its national reserves.
France’s Bitcoin Reserve Plan and Funding Strategy
The proposed legislation envisions a multi-layered funding approach to accumulate Bitcoin without burdening taxpayers. A key component involves public Bitcoin mining operations powered by surplus nuclear and hydroelectric energy, ensuring the process remains both sustainable and cost-efficient.
Additionally, the bill suggests that France retain seized cryptocurrency assets instead of liquidating them. Another innovative funding source would redirect a small portion of popular savings accounts, such as the Livret A, toward daily Bitcoin purchases—potentially adding up to €15 million worth of BTC every day.
This combination of renewable energy mining, asset retention, and citizen-backed investment could help France gradually build a significant Bitcoin reserve while promoting energy efficiency and digital innovation.
A Step Toward Financial Sovereignty and Innovation
Supporters of the initiative view Bitcoin as “digital gold”, a strategic asset capable of protecting national wealth from inflation and enhancing France’s financial sovereignty in an increasingly digital global economy. By adopting Bitcoin, France would not only diversify its reserves but also signal its commitment to embracing blockchain technology and monetary modernization.
While the bill faces significant political hurdles, its introduction marks a turning point in Europe’s crypto landscape. Even if it does not pass, the proposal underscores France’s growing openness to digital assets and solidifies its role as a leader in Europe’s crypto conversation.
As global interest in Bitcoin continues to rise, France’s potential move could inspire other nations to consider similar strategies—setting the stage for a new financial era where digital assets play a central role in national reserves.
