IMF Confirms El Salvador’s Recent Bitcoin Accumulation Came From Private Donations

El Salvador has supplied documentation showing that all Bitcoin added to its strategic reserve after June 27, 2025 originated from private donations, not from public funds, according to a preliminary staff‑level agreement announced by the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

Source of the Accumulation

The IMF statement, released on September 3, confirms that the Bitcoin received after the first review of the country’s Extended Fund Facility (EFF) was funded by private donors. The Fund did not identify the donors or disclose the exact amount of Bitcoin involved.

Implications for IMF Disbursement

If the IMF Executive Board approves the staff report and El Salvador completes the agreed‑upon prior actions, the country could receive an additional disbursement of roughly $140 million (about SDR 101.96 million). This would be on top of the SDR 172.32 million already drawn under the 40‑month EFF approved in February 2025.

Changes to the Chivo Wallet

The government’s electronic wallet, Chivo, has shifted to majority private ownership and operational control, while the state retains a minority stake and custodial responsibilities for user assets. This move follows ongoing discussions about reducing public sector involvement in crypto services.

Future Bitcoin Accumulation

The IMF staff indicated that no further Bitcoin is expected to be added to the reserve beyond the documented private donations. The wording reflects an expectation under the staff‑level agreement rather than a legally binding prohibition.

Broader Economic Outlook

The Fund projects real GDP growth of 4.5 % for El Salvador in 2026, driven by investment, consumption, remittances, tourism and capital inflows. It also called for continued fiscal consolidation, stronger governance and a reduction of public debt to around 80 % of GDP by 2030.