TLDR
- Video platform Rumble has acquired 188 Bitcoin for $17.1 million at an average cost of $91,000 per coin
- The purchase implements part of Rumble’s previously announced plan to allocate up to $20 million to Bitcoin
- Tether provided $775 million in backing to Rumble in late 2024, with $250 million earmarked for growth initiatives
- CEO Chris Pavlovski views Bitcoin as protection against inflation compared to government currencies
- Rumble maintains flexibility to adjust or continue its Bitcoin investment strategy based on market conditions
Rumble, the Nasdaq-listed video-sharing company, has officially entered the cryptocurrency space with a $17.1 million Bitcoin purchase. The company acquired 188 Bitcoin at an average price of $91,000 per coin.
This purchase follows through on Rumble’s earlier stated intentions. CEO Chris Pavlovski had previously announced plans to allocate up to $20 million of the company’s cash reserves to Bitcoin as part of a treasury diversification strategy.
The timing of Rumble’s first Bitcoin purchases has political connections. The company made its initial crypto investment on January 20, 2025, which coincided with President Trump’s inauguration day.
The exact amount of that first purchase was not made public at the time. This latest announcement brings transparency to Rumble’s cryptocurrency holdings and strategy.
Flexibility remains a key part of Rumble’s approach to digital assets. The company stated that the “Bitcoin allocation strategy may be modified, suspended, or discontinued at any time” depending on various factors.
Market conditions will play a crucial role in determining future crypto investments. Rumble indicated it might continue acquiring Bitcoin based on price movements and the company’s cash needs.
Inflation Hedge
Pavlovski highlighted inflation concerns as a major motivation behind the Bitcoin purchase. He described the holdings as “a valuable hedge against inflation” compared to government currencies that can be “overprinted.”
The CEO emphasized how this move aligns with Rumble’s broader business evolution.
“We are proud to officially hold Bitcoin as we continue to grow and engrain crypto into our company’s DNA,” Pavlovski stated.
Tether Investment
Rumble’s cryptocurrency ambitions have received substantial financial backing. Tether, which issues the world’s largest stablecoin, invested $775 million in Rumble toward the end of 2024.
A portion of Tether’s investment has specific allocations. The company earmarked $250 million for growth initiatives, which include the development of Rumble’s cloud services division.
Rumble has been working to diversify its technology offerings. Earlier this year, the company secured a cloud services agreement with El Salvador’s government, signed on January 10.
The platform also maintains connections to former President Trump’s media ventures. Rumble hosts Truth Social, Trump’s alternative social media application launched after his removal from mainstream platforms.
This Bitcoin acquisition comes during a challenging period for cryptocurrency markets. Digital assets have experienced sharp declines following their post-election rally, affected by recession fears and inflation concerns related to proposed tariffs.
Despite the market downturn, institutional interest in Bitcoin continues to grow. By adding Bitcoin to its treasury, Rumble joins other public companies like Metaplanet that have embraced cryptocurrency as a treasury asset.
The announcement had mixed effects on Rumble’s stock performance. Shares declined 2.38% during the regular trading session but rebounded nearly 4% in pre-market trading to reach $8.1.
Rumble’s management will determine any future Bitcoin purchases. The company stated that additional acquisitions would depend on market conditions, Bitcoin pricing, and Rumble’s own financial requirements.
