Bitcoin Drops Following Trump’s Inauguration Speech, Which Left Out Any Crypto References.

Bitcoin Dips as Trump’s Inauguration Speech Skips Crypto, Strategic Reserve Delayed

Hopes for a U.S. strategic bitcoin reserve were dashed on Monday as President Donald Trump’s inauguration speech omitted any mention of cryptocurrency, leaving markets disappointed and bitcoin sliding.

Despite speculation that Trump might address crypto-related policies, his remarks instead focused on broader themes, and a GOP congressional priorities report released earlier in the day also failed to include bitcoin or blockchain initiatives.

Bitcoin’s Price Takes a Hit

Bitcoin (BTC) faced renewed selling pressure during the speech, dropping to test the $100,000 level after hitting an overnight high above $109,000. The lack of acknowledgment of cryptocurrency by the new administration contributed to the downturn, as traders had been anticipating a more bullish narrative.

Promises of Innovation Still Stand

Trump’s crypto-friendly rhetoric in the lead-up to his inauguration had fueled optimism in the sector. He previously pledged to embrace transformative technologies and made notable appointments reflecting that vision. These include naming venture capitalist and former PayPal COO David Sacks as the White House “A.I. & Crypto Czar” and nominating crypto advocate Paul Atkins to head the SEC.

Memecoin Frenzy Draws Criticism

However, Trump’s recent moves have not been without controversy. Over the weekend, the president launched the Trump memecoin, which was shortly followed by a similar token tied to Melania Trump. The unexpected launches spurred a speculative trading frenzy but also drew criticism from some supporters.

“It’s absolutely ridiculous,” said Nic Carter of Castle Island Ventures, a prominent Trump supporter. “Launching a memecoin is a new low—it’s undermining the serious progress crypto has made.”

Market Confidence Wanes

On Polymarket, betting odds for Trump creating a strategic bitcoin reserve within his first 100 days in office fell to 45%, down from 60% earlier in the day. The speech’s omission of crypto, combined with the memecoin controversy, has led to a tempered outlook on Trump’s early crypto agenda.

While the inauguration speech did not deliver the clarity the crypto market hoped for, Trump’s prior appointments and pro-technology promises suggest that bitcoin and blockchain may still play a role in his administration’s policies. Investors now await further signals as Trump begins his term.