While politicians have traditionally stuck to conventional investments like index funds and real estate, JD Vance stands out with a substantial Bitcoin portfolio. The Ohio senator and Trump’s running mate owns between $250,000 and $500,000 in Bitcoin, according to his August 2024 federal filing. That’s double what he reported back in 2022. Not exactly pocket change.
Vance keeps his crypto on Coinbase. No cold storage for this venture capitalist-turned-politician. His Bitcoin holdings are just a slice of his estimated $4.8-$11.3 million net worth. His biggest asset? A Charles Schwab account worth up to $7.7 million. The man’s got options—literally and figuratively.
Unlike most politicians with cold feet about crypto security, Vance keeps his Bitcoin warm on Coinbase while juggling millions in traditional investments.
Before donning his political hat, Vance cut his teeth in the venture capital world. He worked at Peter Thiel‘s Mithril Capital and later co-founded Narya Capital. Thiel, a crypto enthusiast himself, has backed Vance’s political ascent. Birds of a tech-loving feather, apparently. His investment represents a tiny fraction of the nearly 20 million bitcoins currently in circulation worldwide.
Vance hasn’t been shy about his crypto stance. He’s called SEC Chair Gary Gensler the “worst person” for crypto regulation. Subtle. He’s also helped craft the SAB 121 bill promoting cryptocurrency development and adoption. He’s tweeted support for cryptocurrency as protection against government overreach and voted for pro-crypto legislation in the Senate. His investment choices match his political rhetoric—a rare consistency in Washington.
As the first major party VP candidate with significant Bitcoin holdings, Vance could influence crypto policy if the Trump ticket wins in November. His investment has already paid off handsomely, with his approximately 7 BTC growing to a value of around $720,000 since Trump’s re-election. He’d likely push for lighter regulation, crypto-friendly tax policies, and might have a say in key regulatory appointments. The crypto community is practically doing backflips.
Vance’s pro-crypto stance contrasts sharply with the Biden administration’s approach. His position aligns with Trump’s recent crypto pivot—convenient timing or genuine belief? Either way, his background as an investor seems to inform his pro-innovation stance.
For crypto bros looking for a champion in Washington, Vance might be their guy. Whether that’s good for America remains to be seen.
