IMF Grants El Salvador Bitcoin Waiver, Releases $138 Million in Loans

The IMF Executive Board approved El Salvador's second and third program reviews on October 1, 2026, disbursing about $138 million (SDR 101.96 million). For the first time, the board formally accommodated a sovereign's Bitcoin accumulation: reserves grew from 5,968 to roughly 7,764 BTC, attributed to private donations. The country's bond coupon fell from 4% to 0.25%, and Chivo's privatization was ratified.

• IMF disbursed SDR 101.96 million — about $138 million — to El Salvador
• Bitcoin reserves rose from 5,968 to roughly 7,764 BTC since December 2024
• Growth was attributed to private donations; no donors were disclosed
• Bond coupon dropped from 4% to 0.25% after the board decision