Michael Saylor, a name synonymous with Bitcoin advocacy, is widely regarded as one of the cryptocurrency’s most influential proponents. His software company, MicroStrategy, has essentially become a proxy for Bitcoin, mirroring its price movements. But what many don’t know is that Saylor wasn’t always a Bitcoin believer. In fact, he has publicly acknowledged his past skepticism and expressed surprise at his own earlier views.
In December 2013, Saylor, echoing the sentiments of many crypto skeptics, tweeted, “Bitcoin days are numbered. It seems like just a matter of time before it suffers the same fate as online gambling.” However, less than seven years later, Saylor’s perspective took a dramatic turn. MicroStrategy, under his leadership, adopted Bitcoin as its primary reserve asset, becoming the first publicly listed company to do so. This decision marked a pivotal moment, not only for MicroStrategy, but for the broader cryptocurrency landscape.
Since then, MicroStrategy has amassed a Bitcoin stash worth over $15 billion, making it the world’s largest corporate holder of the cryptocurrency. And the move has paid off. Despite the volatility of the crypto market, MicroStrategy’s stock has outperformed every company in the S&P 500, including the tech giant Nvidia.
Saylor’s own journey with Bitcoin has been nothing short of remarkable. From dismissing it as a passing fad to calling it a “swarm of cyber hornets serving the goddess of wisdom,” his evolution reflects the growing acceptance of Bitcoin as a legitimate asset class. He has publicly stated that he personally owns nearly $1 billion worth of Bitcoin and intends to continue acquiring more.
Saylor’s transformation from Bitcoin skeptic to staunch advocate demonstrates the power of conviction and the potential of this revolutionary digital asset. His story serves as a reminder that the future of any technology, especially one as disruptive as Bitcoin, is often unpredictable and can surprise even the most seasoned observers.
