Crypto assets as collateral

Abstract

According to some estimates, the total market capitalization of Bitcoin, one of the best-known cryptocurrencies, had reached $2.4 trillion by the second half of 2025, making it the fifth most valuable asset class in the world. If we were to compare it to the national currency reserves of countries, it would currently rank second among nations in terms of value. The acceptance of cryptocurrencies and crypto coins among market participants is constantly growing, owing to which more and more legislators are recognizing the need for market regulation and the potential it offers. As more and more countries recognize cryptocurrencies as a means of exchange and payment or as an investment tool for accumulating wealth, the question arises as to whether these assets can function as collateral and, if so, whether they can be subject to liens.