3iQ Secures Bitcoin Treasury Management Mandate in Bhutan
Canadian fund firm to build Bhutan's digital asset ecosystem through strategic partnership.
1New Step in Bhutan's Bitcoin Strategy
Canadian digital asset manager 3iQ has been appointed to manage part of Bhutan's Bitcoin holdings for the Gelephu Mindfulness City project. This move is part of the country's digital asset policy announced in 2025. Bhutan had previously revealed plans to allocate 10,000 BTC from its national Bitcoin reserves for this city development. 3iQ's institutional service track record and regulated digital asset product experience were key factors in the selection.
2Building an Ecosystem Beyond Fund Management
3iQ plans to establish long-term presence in Bhutan. The company will develop local talent through training programs and share technological expertise. Gelephu Mindfulness City officials state this partnership combines international financial knowledge with Bhutan's sustainable development vision. The goal is to transform the region into a next-generation digital offshore financial center.
3Vision for Institutional Digital Asset Hub
Another objective of the partnership is creating an ecosystem to attract international asset managers, investment firms, and blockchain experts. Bhutan ranks among the world's largest state Bitcoin miners using its hydropower resources. The government aims to utilize these assets to stimulate economic development. The Gelephu project embodies this strategic approach.
4Expanding 3iQ's Asian Footprint
Founded in 2012, 3iQ pioneered some of the world's first regulated crypto investment products, including early Bitcoin and Ethereum exchange-traded products (ETPs). The Bhutan agreement strengthens the company's Asian presence while offering opportunities to expand institutional digital asset offerings beyond exchange-traded products.
5Merging Technology with Sustainable Development
Bhutan aims not only to attract foreign investment in digital assets but also to achieve sustainability goals. Gelephu Mindfulness City seeks to combine blockchain technology with eco-conscious development. This approach reflects Bhutan's unique model of participating in the global digital economy.
6Continued Infrastructure Investments
Parties emphasize this agreement is just the first phase of a broader roadmap. Coming months will see new announcements about infrastructure development to support institutional digital asset funds, investment firms, and blockchain-focused financial services. Bhutan plans to integrate traditional economy with digital asset ecosystem through these steps.
7History of State Bitcoin Mining
Bhutan has been mining Bitcoin using its abundant hydropower resources, positioning itself among the world's largest state Bitcoin holders. Rather than simply holding these assets, the government prefers utilizing them to accelerate economic development. The Gelephu initiative stands as a concrete manifestation of this philosophy.
8A New Model in Digital Asset Space
The Bhutan-3iQ partnership presents an innovative model merging traditional finance with digital asset ecosystem. This move demonstrates how smaller economies can utilize digital assets as national development tools. Bhutan's approach may serve as an example for countries with clean energy resources transitioning to sustainable digital economy.
Original article: CryptoNinjas — Bhutan'ın Bitcoin Varlıkları 3iQ'ya Emanet