Bitcoin Declines After No Mention of Cryptocurrency in Trump’s Inauguration Remarks.

Bitcoin Slides as Trump’s Inauguration Speech Misses Crypto, Strategic Bitcoin Reserve Delayed

Bitcoin’s price took a hit on Monday after President Donald Trump’s inauguration speech failed to address the anticipated topic of a U.S. strategic bitcoin reserve or offer any direct comments on cryptocurrency.

The lack of cryptocurrency mentions during the speech, combined with a GOP congressional priorities report that also excluded digital assets, left markets disappointed. Bitcoin (BTC), which had been trading near $109,000 earlier, began to retreat and tested the $100,000 level during Trump’s address.

Market Reacts to Missed Expectations

The price dip highlights how high hopes for crypto-friendly policies under Trump’s administration have yet to materialize. Investors had been hoping for stronger signals regarding bitcoin’s role in U.S. economic policy, particularly after previous indications from Trump’s team that the president would embrace innovative technologies.

Pro-Crypto Moves Preceding the Inauguration

While the inauguration speech didn’t deliver, Trump’s team had taken steps earlier to position his administration as supportive of cryptocurrency and emerging technologies. Notably, he appointed David Sacks, venture capitalist and former PayPal COO, as the “A.I. & Crypto Czar.” Trump also nominated Paul Atkins, a known crypto advocate, to head the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), fueling speculation about the administration’s pro-crypto approach.

Memecoin Controversy Dampens Enthusiasm

Adding to the mixed sentiment, Trump’s weekend launch of the Trump memecoin, followed by Melania Trump’s own token, sparked a speculative frenzy but also drew criticism.

“This is a major misstep,” said Nic Carter, co-founder of Castle Island Ventures. “Memecoins undermine the integrity of the crypto space, especially when such important policy decisions are at stake.”

Market Sentiment Shifts

The odds of a strategic bitcoin reserve being created within Trump’s first 100 days in office fell on Polymarket, dropping from 60% to 45% as a result of the speech’s lack of crypto focus.

While the inauguration speech did not deliver the anticipated cryptocurrency policy highlights, Trump’s earlier moves, including his appointments and pro-tech rhetoric, still suggest that digital assets could play a larger role in his administration. Investors now look to future actions for clearer signals on how Trump will approach crypto.