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IMF Staff-Level Deal Says Donations, Not Public Money, Fueled El Salvador’s Bitcoin Buildup

The finding narrows compliance questions over the country’s crypto holdings and supports a privatization step that reduces direct state exposure.

Overview

  • IMF staff reached a staff-level agreement on the combined second and third reviews on Sept. 3, 2026, and that understanding would free about $140 million if the IMF Executive Board approves it.
  • The IMF said documents from El Salvador show all Bitcoin added to government-linked wallets after the June 27, 2025 first review came from private donations and that no public funds were used.
  • The fund said it does not expect further public-sector Bitcoin accumulation beyond the donations already documented and agreed reporting and oversight steps will make future holdings easier to track.
  • Operational control and majority ownership of the Chivo wallet have moved to an unnamed private operator while the government keeps a minority stake and remains custodian of customer funds.
  • Key questions remain about who the private donors are, the exact donation terms and amounts, and whether stronger governance and fiscal steps under the 40-month $1.4 billion EFF will shore up public confidence and financial stability.