Strategy CEO Phong Lee Discusses Bitcoin Holding and Dividend Plans: Outlook to 2029
In a recent interview, Phong Lee, the CEO of Strategy, emphasized the company’s commitment to retaining its Bitcoin (BTC) holdings until at least 2029. This decision stems from a carefully developed cash reserve totaling $1.44 billion, strategically designed to support dividend payments and minimize the need for liquidating Bitcoin during market downturns. Lee underscored that the reserve effectively buffers short-term obligations from the company’s long-term Bitcoin investment strategy.
The Structure of the Dividend Buffer
Lee elaborated on the company’s financial strategy, noting that the established reserve is projected to cover dividend payouts for approximately 21 months. The management’s proactive approach aims to secure over two years of U.S. dollar coverage, ensuring that the company’s long-term needs are prioritized. By positioning Bitcoin as a critical long-term asset, Strategy aims to mitigate any immediate financial pressures that could force the company into a reluctant sale of its BTC holdings.
Understanding Market Net Asset Value (mNAV)
Investor attention has increasingly shifted towards understanding the company’s market net asset value (mNAV). This metric assesses how Strategy’s equity valuation compares with its Bitcoin holdings. Lee pointed out that if mNAV dips below 1x, issuing common equity to fund dividends becomes less appealing as it would not benefit shareholders. The dollar reserve thus serves as a lifeline that prevents the company from making unattractive financial decisions, ensuring that Bitcoin remains a vital part of their long-term strategy.
Factors Leading to Bitcoin Liquidation
In discussing potential scenarios that could compel the company to consider selling Bitcoin, Lee indicated that a prolonged down cycle lasting approximately three years would be necessary. For Strategy to feel pressured to liquidate BTC, mNAV must trade below 1x consistently during that period. While the situation looks challenging, Lee suggested that any decision to liquidate would be several years away, with the earliest timeframe extending towards the end of 2025 or into 2029.
The Company’s Bitcoin Acquisition Approach
Regarding the acquisition of Bitcoin, Lee clarified that Strategy doesn’t position itself as Bitcoin traders but rather as long-term investors. The company strategically purchases Bitcoin when it has excess capital available or when it raises new funds intended for deployment in BTC. This disciplined approach allows Strategy to focus on accumulating Bitcoin without succumbing to market volatility.
Preferred Shares as a Capital Strategy
In an innovative move, Lee indicated that the company is considering a capital strategy leaning towards preferred shares, which he described as being more credit-like than traditional common stock. By issuing perpetual preferred shares, Strategy posits that this structure offers a superior alternative to standard debt and convertible financing. Lee anticipates that the market may take time to fully grasp the advantages of this product, with a potential adjustment period ranging from 18 to 36 months or longer.
Addressing Dividend Concerns with a Strong Reserve
Finally, as the price of Bitcoin and the value of Strategy shares continue to fluctuate, dividend queries from investors persist. The newly established U.S. dollar reserve aims to address these concerns head-on, giving the company the flexibility to maintain consistent dividend payments without resorting to the sale of its Bitcoin holdings. Lee’s forward-thinking approach exemplifies how Strategy aims to position itself as a stable entity in a turbulent market, ensuring its long-term resilience while honoring its dividend commitments.
