The cryptocurrency market continues to make headlines with a mix of jaw-dropping returns, institutional adoption milestones, and unexpected corporate moves. As of July 2, Bitcoin (BTC) is trading around $106,900, Ethereum (ETH) hovers near $2,440, and Solana (SOL) maintains a position at approximately $149. The total global crypto market capitalization stands at $3.41 trillion, with Bitcoin’s dominance accounting for about 65.4% of the market.
This momentum is being fueled not only by price action but also by real-world developments—such as long-forgotten physical Bitcoin being cashed in for life-changing profits and major corporations inching toward mainstream indices thanks to strategic crypto holdings.
A 13-Year-Old Physical Bitcoin Redeemed for Over $10 Million
One of the most remarkable stories this week involves a physical Bitcoin known as a Casascius coin, which was recently redeemed after lying dormant for nearly 13 years. Originally purchased in 2012 for just $500, the coin contained 100 BTC and has now been converted into over $10 million—representing an astonishing return of almost 2,000,000%.
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The Casascius series, created by Mike Caldwell between 2011 and 2013, are tangible representations of Bitcoin private keys sealed under holograms. These collectible "Bitcoin bars" became legendary among early adopters, though many were lost, forgotten, or kept as novelties.
According to blockchain tracking data, more than 10,000 Casascius coins have been redeemed so far. However, it's estimated that over 18,000 remain unclaimed, potentially holding significant value for whoever possesses them—especially if they were loaded during Bitcoin’s infancy when prices were under $10 or even under $1.
This redemption underscores a powerful truth: early adoption in the crypto space wasn’t just speculative—it was transformative. For those who held through volatility, regulatory uncertainty, and technological skepticism, the rewards have been historic.
Strategy Corp Poised for S&P 500 Inclusion
In another landmark development, Strategy Corp—a publicly traded company with substantial Bitcoin holdings—is on the verge of being included in the S&P 500, one of the most prestigious stock market indices in the world.
To qualify for inclusion, companies must meet several criteria, including a key financial benchmark: positive net income over the past four consecutive quarters. Strategy Corp is projected to report over $11 billion in net profit for Q2 2025 alone, primarily due to the application of fair-value accounting on its Bitcoin treasury.
Estimates suggest the company could recognize up to $14 billion in unrealized gains, pushing its cumulative earnings into positive territory and satisfying the S&P 500’s profitability requirement.
This potential inclusion marks a pivotal moment for crypto-adjacent businesses. It signals that companies leveraging digital assets strategically can achieve not just financial success but also mainstream market legitimacy.
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More importantly, it sets a precedent. If Strategy Corp joins the S&P 500, it may encourage other public firms to reconsider their capital allocation strategies—potentially leading to broader institutional adoption of Bitcoin as a balance sheet asset.
Figma Reveals $70 Million Bitcoin Investment
Adding to the wave of corporate crypto adoption, design software giant Figma has disclosed in its IPO filing that it holds approximately $70 million worth of Bitcoin through the Bitwise Bitcoin ETF (BITB).
Filed on July 1, the prospectus reveals that Figma currently holds about $69.5 million in BITB shares**, stemming from a board-approved purchase of $55 million initiated on March 3, 2024. The company also plans to invest an additional $30 million** in Bitcoin-related assets in the near future.
Since acquisition, the investment has appreciated by roughly 27%, contributing positively to the company’s financials. While Bitcoin represents only about 4% of Figma’s total cash and marketable securities, its inclusion in a pre-IPO portfolio sends a strong signal about shifting corporate attitudes toward digital assets.
Unlike speculative retail moves, Figma’s investment reflects a deliberate treasury diversification strategy—aligning with forward-thinking firms like MicroStrategy and Tesla that view Bitcoin as a hedge against inflation and monetary debasement.
This move may influence other tech startups preparing for public markets to consider similar allocations, especially as regulatory clarity around crypto assets improves.
Why Corporate Bitcoin Adoption Is Accelerating
Several factors are driving increased corporate interest in Bitcoin:
- Inflation hedging: With global monetary policies remaining loose in many regions, companies seek non-sovereign stores of value.
- Treasury diversification: Firms are moving beyond traditional instruments like bonds and money markets.
- Shareholder pressure: Investors increasingly favor companies with innovative capital management.
- Regulatory clarity: The approval of spot Bitcoin ETFs in the U.S. has reduced legal ambiguity.
As more companies disclose crypto holdings, transparency norms will evolve—and so will investor expectations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is a physical Bitcoin?
A: A physical Bitcoin is a tangible object—often a metal coin or plaque—that contains a private key redeemable for actual cryptocurrency. The Casascius coins are among the most famous examples from Bitcoin’s early days.
Q: Can I still redeem old physical Bitcoins?
A: Yes, if the private key has not been compromised and the associated wallet hasn’t been drained. However, many early physical coins used outdated security practices, so caution is advised when purchasing or redeeming them.
Q: Why does S&P 500 inclusion matter for crypto companies?
A: Inclusion means broader visibility, eligibility for index funds, and increased investor confidence. It legitimizes a company’s financial health and operational stability in the eyes of traditional markets.
Q: Is Figma investing directly in Bitcoin or through an ETF?
A: Figma is investing via the Bitwise Bitcoin ETF (BITB), which provides regulated exposure without requiring direct custody of private keys.
Q: Could more companies follow this trend?
A: Absolutely. As Bitcoin proves its long-term resilience and regulatory frameworks mature, more corporations are likely to treat it as a viable treasury asset.
Q: How does fair-value accounting affect Bitcoin holdings?
A: Under fair-value accounting, unrealized gains or losses on Bitcoin must be reported on quarterly financial statements. This can significantly boost net income when prices rise—but also introduces volatility during downturns.
Final Thoughts
The redemption of a $500 physical Bitcoin into $10 million after 13 years is more than just a feel-good story—it’s a testament to Bitcoin’s enduring value proposition. Meanwhile, Strategy Corp’s potential S&P 500 inclusion and Figma’s strategic ETF investment reflect a broader shift: Bitcoin is no longer fringe; it’s becoming foundational.
For individuals and institutions alike, these developments highlight both the rewards of conviction and the importance of long-term thinking in the digital asset space.
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As adoption accelerates across sectors—from fintech to design software—the narrative around Bitcoin continues to evolve from speculative asset to institutional-grade reserve. Whether you're an early believer or a new entrant, now is the time to understand how digital assets are reshaping finance.
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