US Treasury: Bitcoin Like Gold, But Tariff-Free
US Treasury likens Bitcoin to gold and confirms gold may be tariff-exempt. Crypto’s legitimacy grows.

- Treasury Secretary compares Bitcoin to gold as a store of value.
- Gold likely to remain exempt from upcoming tariffs.
- Signals rising government recognition of crypto’s value.
Bitcoin and Gold: A New Comparison from the Treasury
In a surprising statement, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has drawn a direct comparison between Bitcoin and gold, referring to both as stores of value. This is a major moment for the crypto community, as it signals growing institutional acceptance of Bitcoin’s role in the global financial system.
At a press briefing, Bessent stated that gold is likely to remain exempt from new trade tariffs, reinforcing its role as a stable asset in uncertain times. But what truly caught market watchers’ attention was his comparison of Bitcoin to gold—suggesting that digital assets are stepping into the same category as long-trusted hedges like precious metals.
What This Means for Bitcoin’s Image
The Treasury Secretary’s remarks mark a shift in tone from US leadership. For years, Bitcoin has battled regulatory skepticism, often being criticized for its volatility and lack of intrinsic value. But now, the same institution that once viewed crypto with suspicion is acknowledging it as a store of value—a title traditionally reserved for assets like gold and real estate.
This comparison gives weight to Bitcoin’s evolving role: not just as a speculative investment, but as a legitimate financial asset with long-term relevance. As inflation fears and geopolitical tensions rise, investors are increasingly turning to Bitcoin for the same reasons they’ve historically turned to gold—scarcity, independence from central banks, and long-term preservation of value.
A Boost for Bitcoin’s Institutional Legitimacy
Bessent’s comments may encourage further institutional adoption and regulatory clarity. When a top economic figure compares Bitcoin to gold, it changes the conversation. It gives crypto a level of legitimacy that could influence future policy, investment strategy, and public trust.
While gold may get tariff exemptions, Bitcoin already enjoys global, borderless access without trade restrictions. And unlike physical gold, Bitcoin is easier to store, transfer, and audit. These advantages may continue to push it further into the mainstream as a digital alternative to traditional stores of value.