Harvard University has sharply increased its exposure to alternative assets, tripling its Bitcoin investment and nearly doubling its gold holdings in the third quarter, signalling a strategic pivot toward digital assets.
According to Bitwise CIO Matt Hougan, Harvard raised its Bitcoin allocation from about $117 million to roughly $443 million, making the cryptocurrency a core hedge against currency debasement.
Gold ETF holdings increased from $102 million to $235 million, but Bitcoin remains the primary focus, with gold weighted at two-to-one. Recent filings show Harvard now holds over 6.8 million shares of BlackRock’s IBIT Bitcoin ETF, up from 1.9 million, marking a notable shift for an endowment traditionally invested in private equity and real estate. Despite the rise, the allocation represents about 1% of Harvard’s total endowment, reflecting a measured approach.
The move aligns with Bitcoin trading above $91,500 and growing global acceptance of digital currencies. Harvard economist Kenneth Rogoff recently acknowledged underestimating Bitcoin’s role in international transactions.
Globally, universities are increasingly engaging with blockchain, not only as an investment but also for research and education. Institutions such as Columbia University and Indonesia’s Universitas Gadjah Mada are integrating blockchain into learning and credential systems, underscoring growing academic trust in the technology.
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