IMF Praises El Salvador's Economic Growth Amid Bitcoin Strategy Continuation
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has praised El Salvador's stronger-than-expected economic growth, projecting real GDP growth around 4% for 2025 with a very positive outlook for 2026. This update from the IMF did not reiterate its previous call to pause El Salvador's bitcoin accumulation strategy, as the country has continued buying bitcoin. In November, El Salvador added more than 1,000 BTC amid a market downturn, bringing total holdings close to 7,500 BTC, valued at about $660 million at current prices.
The IMF also noted that negotiations for selling the Chivo crypto wallet are well advanced, with ongoing discussions about the Bitcoin project emphasizing transparency, the safeguarding of public resources, and risk mitigation. The IMF cited improved confidence, record remittances, and buoyant investment as primary drivers of the country's economic growth.
El Salvador secured a $3.5 billion loan package from the IMF in March and the fund expects to maintain engagement to complete the second review of the Extended Fund Facility (EFF) program. President Nayib Bukele has been the driving force behind the bitcoin strategy pursued by the country.
