Swedish lawmakers propose Bitcoin reserve funded by seized crypto instead of taxpayers

Sweden is stepping deeper into the global digital asset debate. A bold new parliamentary motion could soon lead to the establishment of a Sweden national Bitcoin reserve as interest in strategic crypto reserves grows worldwide.

On Oct. 1, lawmakers submitted a motion pushing for the creation of a Sweden national Bitcoin reserve positioning Bitcoin as both a hedge against inflation and a diversification tool for state assets. The proposal highlights the rising importance of digital assets in government level financial planning.

To fund the reserve, the motion suggests channeling Bitcoin confiscated by law enforcement rather than drawing from taxpayers. Sweden’s recent legislation, which allows authorities to seize luxury goods and digital currencies from individuals unable to justify their wealth has already resulted in more than $8.4 million worth of assets being confiscated.

Lawmakers argue that redirecting these funds toward the Sweden national Bitcoin reserve would strengthen state balance sheets.

The proposal, due for review by Oct. 15, outlines transferring seized cryptocurrencies directly to the Riksbank or another designated authority, bypassing traditional auctions. Supporters note that Bitcoin’s capped supply, global liquidity and independence from central banks make it a strong addition alongside gold and foreign currencies within the Sweden national Bitcoin reserve.

Lawmakers also called for maintaining Bitcoin’s legal clarity. The motion requests that no changes be made to the legal definition of tender and opposes introducing a central bank digital currency (CBDC) under the Riksbank Act. This stance they say, would ensure that the Sweden national Bitcoin reserve coexists with Sweden’s current framework while reinforcing financial openness.

Sweden national Bitcoin reserve part of global trend

This latest motion builds on previous calls for integrating Bitcoin into Sweden’s economic strategy. Back in April, two lawmakers wrote to Finance Minister Elisabeth Svantesson, encouraging a national strategy that includes a Sweden national Bitcoin reserve in future planning.

The initiative aligns with international movements. In the United States, the GENIUS Act passed with bipartisan support has already laid the groundwork for a strategic Bitcoin reserve. Similarly, Finland, Kyrgyzstan, Ukraine, Kazakhstan, Brazil and the Philippines which is currently reviewing a bill to create a 10,000 BTC reserve have signaled interest in developing their own national crypto reserves.

With this proposal, Sweden could join the growing list of countries treating Bitcoin as a strategic state asset. If approved, the Sweden national Bitcoin reserve would not only diversify Sweden’s holdings but also establish the nation as a frontrunner in integrating Bitcoin into sovereign financial infrastructure.