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On Bitcoin as US Reserve Currency

Kenneth Leong
3 min readJan 2, 2025

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The idea of adopting Bitcoin as the reserve currency of the United States raises numerous concerns. While proponents argue for its potential benefits, a critical examination reveals several fundamental issues.

1. Lack of Government Backing

Bitcoin is not backed by the full faith and credit of the US government. Traditional fiat currencies derive their value from government backing, which provides a level of trust and stability. In contrast, Bitcoin operates independently of any central authority, making it inherently more volatile and less reliable as a reserve currency. This lack of backing could lead to a crisis of confidence, especially during economic downturns.

2. Accessibility Issues

Bitcoin is not easily accessible to the general public. While its advocates often tout its revolutionary potential, the reality is that one must have a certain level of computer literacy and technical know-how to buy, store, and use Bitcoin effectively. This creates a barrier for many individuals, particularly those who are less tech-savvy or do not have access to reliable internet services. A reserve currency should be usable by all citizens, not just a tech-savvy minority.

3. Security Risks

The security risks associated with Bitcoin are substantial. The cryptocurrency has…

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Kenneth Leong
Kenneth Leong

Written by Kenneth Leong

Author, Zen teacher, scientific mystic, professor, photographer, philosopher, social commentator, socially engaged human

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