In a closely watched political event, former U.S. President Donald Trump delivered his February 2026 State of the Union address without mentioning cryptocurrency or Bitcoin, a notable omission that triggered immediate market reactions. Many investors and traders had anticipated a reference to digital assets, given Trump's previous public support for Bitcoin and the crypto sector.
The address focused on traditional issues like the economy, jobs, border security, and national defense, leaving out any discussion of blockchain technology or crypto policy. This silence surprised many within the crypto community, as Trump had shown clear interest in digital assets over the preceding two years. A key example was his 2024 endorsement of the launch of World Liberty Financial, which had bolstered his image as a crypto-friendly leader.
Prior to the speech, prediction markets saw significant activity, with traders betting millions of dollars on whether Trump would utter the words "Bitcoin" or "crypto." This highlighted his substantial influence on market sentiment. Prominent economist Peter Schiff had warned that Bitcoin's price could fall if Trump remained silent, suggesting the market had already priced in a potential mention.
When no mention materialized, the market reacted with increased volatility. Some investors executed quick sell-offs, while others held their positions. The event underscored the crypto market's heightened sensitivity to political commentary, demonstrating that even a presidential speech devoid of crypto talk can move prices within minutes.
The strong reaction also signals the growing political significance of cryptocurrency. Whereas political leaders rarely discussed Bitcoin years ago, investors now expect clear stances from presidential candidates. While some were disappointed by the lack of policy signals, others remained optimistic, believing Trump's support for the sector does not require reiteration in every public address.
