Should Amazon Add Bitcoin to Its Treasury? Exploring the Debate
Dec 18, 2024

Sam

Hey, did you hear that some shareholders want Amazon to buy Bitcoin? What's that about?

Amy

Yeah, they want Amazon to hold Bitcoin as part of its financial reserves. It’s like putting some of their extra cash into Bitcoin instead of just leaving it in the bank.

Sam

But why Bitcoin? Isn’t it super risky? Like, its price goes up and down all the time!

Amy

You're right—it’s volatile. But that’s also why some people like it. This year alone, Bitcoin’s price has gone up 125%! Some think it’s a better investment than traditional things like bonds or gold, especially as a way to protect against inflation.

Sam

Inflation? You mean when prices go up and money loses value, right?

Amy

Exactly. Companies like MicroStrategy and Tesla already use Bitcoin to hedge against inflation. Basically, they think Bitcoin’s limited supply makes it like 'digital gold.' Its value could go up while regular money loses buying power.

Sam

Hmm, so if it worked for them, why hasn’t Amazon jumped in yet?

Amy

Well, it’s complicated. Amazon has a ton of cash—about $88 billion. If they put even 5% of that into Bitcoin, it could mean big profits if Bitcoin keeps rising. But there are risks, like losing money if Bitcoin’s price crashes. And don’t forget, Bitcoin mining has an environmental impact, which might go against Amazon’s green goals.

Sam

Oh yeah, I’ve heard people say Bitcoin uses a lot of energy. Wouldn’t that make Amazon look bad?

Amy

Possibly. Amazon is working on being carbon neutral by 2040, so they might not want to invest in something linked to high energy use. Plus, they need to balance this with other priorities, like funding new projects in AI or logistics.

Sam

I see. So even though Bitcoin could make money, it might not fit Amazon’s style?

Amy

Exactly. Amazon is known for taking risks with new technology, but their shareholders need to decide if Bitcoin is worth the gamble. Some think a small experiment, like Tesla’s approach, could work. Others worry it’s too risky or a distraction from their main business.

Sam

So, it’s like a debate: should they play it safe, or try something bold that might pay off big?

Amy

Yep, that’s the big question! Whatever Amazon decides, it could set an example for other companies. If they go for it, more businesses might start using Bitcoin too.

Sam

Wow, that’s huge. Imagine if Bitcoin becomes normal for companies! But for now, I guess we’ll have to wait and see what Amazon decides.