Unlocking Yield from Bitcoin Treasuries: Willem Schroé on Turning Dormant Holdings into Active Assets

By: crypto insight|2025/10/27 17:00:07

Key Takeaways

Corporate Bitcoin treasuries now hold around 1.33 million BTC, rivaling ETF holdings and representing about 6.3% of Bitcoin’s total supply, opening doors for yield-generating strategies.
Willem Schroé of Botanix Labs advocates for non-custodial Bitcoin yield networks that allow companies to earn returns without losing control of their assets, avoiding past pitfalls like centralized lending failures.
Unlike ETFs, which are restricted from lending or staking due to regulations, corporate treasuries have flexibility to experiment with DeFi protocols and sidechains for active Bitcoin management.
Bitcoin’s evolution toward a functional financial system could transform it from a mere store of value into a medium of exchange, with innovations like Botanix aiming to replicate Ethereum-style yields on Bitcoin.
Recent discussions on social media and search trends highlight growing interest in Bitcoin lending risks and opportunities, emphasizing the need for secure, transparent yield solutions.

Imagine holding a vault full of gold bars that just sit there, gathering dust while the world buzzes with economic activity around you. That’s been the story for many corporate Bitcoin treasuries—massive reserves of digital gold that remain idle, not contributing to growth or generating returns. But what if those holdings could work for you, earning more Bitcoin without the risks that sank previous ventures? That’s the vision shared by Willem Schroé, the founder and CEO of Botanix Labs, who sees a future where Bitcoin treasuries evolve from passive stores into dynamic assets. As companies pile into Bitcoin, with public and private firms amassing holdings that now rival those of exchange-traded funds, the conversation is shifting toward putting that Bitcoin to work. In this exploration, we’ll dive into how corporate treasuries are redefining Bitcoin’s role, drawing on Schroé’s insights and the latest buzz from online searches and social media, all while highlighting secure paths forward in this evolving landscape.

The Rise of Corporate Bitcoin Treasuries and Their Untapped Potential

Public companies are increasingly positioning themselves as dedicated Bitcoin treasuries, with their collective holdings approaching 1.05 million BTC. Add in the private sector’s 279,185 BTC across at least 68 firms, and you’re looking at a grand total of 1.33 million BTC—roughly 6.3% of Bitcoin’s entire supply. It’s a staggering figure that underscores Bitcoin’s growing appeal as a corporate asset, much like how traditional firms hoard cash or gold reserves. But unlike those analogs, Bitcoin’s digital nature opens up possibilities for yield that physical assets can’t match.

Willem Schroé, with his background in cryptography from his studies in Belgium, where he rubbed shoulders with early Bitcoin pioneers, brings a unique perspective to this. After honing his skills at Harvard Business School, he launched Botanix Labs to create a Bitcoin yield network that transforms these dormant holdings into active participants in a broader financial ecosystem. “There are plenty of individuals and private companies holding Bitcoin who are exploring lending and yield options,” Schroé explains, pointing to a shift away from mere accumulation toward strategic utilization.

Think of it like a farmer with fertile land: you could let it lie fallow, or you could plant crops and harvest yields season after season. For Bitcoin treasuries, the “crops” come in the form of lending, staking, and decentralized finance protocols. At least 273 public and private corporations have dipped their toes into Bitcoin investments, and the trend shows no signs of slowing. This isn’t just about hoarding; it’s about building a foundation where Bitcoin treasuries can generate ongoing value, much like how dividends from stocks bolster a company’s bottom line.

Comparing Bitcoin Treasuries to ETFs: Why Flexibility Matters

Spot Bitcoin ETFs have surged in popularity, collectively holding nearly 1.7 million BTC—surpassing even the combined corporate treasuries. Yet, these funds are hamstrung by their very design. Custodians like major exchanges handle the keys, stripping ETF holders of direct control. More critically, regulatory frameworks under U.S. securities laws treat them as passive trusts, prohibiting activities like lending or staking to ensure they purely track Bitcoin’s price.

Schroé highlights this contrast vividly: “ETFs rely on custodians, so they lack the keys or true ownership. Plus, regulations bar them from putting Bitcoin to work.” It’s like owning a race car but being forbidden from starting the engine—great for display, but useless for speed. Prospectuses for these ETFs, such as the largest one with 804,944 BTC, explicitly state that assets won’t be loaned, pledged, or rehypothecated, except in limited cases like trade credits. This setup maintains compliance but sacrifices potential yields.

Corporate treasuries, on the other hand, enjoy more leeway. They’re not bound by the same passive mandates, allowing experimentation with yield strategies. For instance, some digital asset firms on other blockchains stake holdings, operate validators, or engage in DeFi to grow their balances over time. This flexibility is akin to a startup pivoting from a single product to a full ecosystem—Bitcoin treasuries can evolve similarly, turning static reserves into working capital that fuels expansion.

Lessons from Past Failures and the Path to Safer Bitcoin Yield

The idea of earning yield on Bitcoin isn’t new, but it’s fraught with cautionary tales. Centralized platforms that promised high returns through lending often collapsed under the weight of leverage and counterparty risks, leaving users in the lurch. Schroé acknowledges this history but sees it as a maturation process: “Early experiments had their hacks and failures, but we’ve grown past that.” It’s like the Wild West days of the internet, where initial chaos gave way to robust, secure systems.

Botanix Labs aims to sidestep these pitfalls by building a non-custodial sidechain where users retain control. You stake your Bitcoin into smart contracts, receiving a yield-bearing token in return, with returns tied directly to network activity—similar to how Ethereum rewards stakers through transaction fees. This model contrasts sharply with old-school lenders, which operated off-chain with opaque practices. Instead, Botanix leverages an Ethereum Virtual Machine-compatible environment, where fees and collateral are in BTC, enabling lending, borrowing, and liquidity provision on a Bitcoin-linked chain.

To build credibility, consider real-world parallels. On networks like Solana, certain development corporations actively manage their treasuries through staking and DeFi, expanding holdings organically. Bitcoin-native solutions like Botanix seek to mirror this, but with the added security of Bitcoin’s foundational layer. Schroé emphasizes that this isn’t about reckless speculation; it’s about creating a sustainable financial layer where Bitcoin functions as both a store of value and a medium of exchange. “Bitcoin has triumphed as money,” he says. “Now, we need a financial system built around it.”

Navigating Bitcoin’s Philosophical Divides and Corporate Adoption

Bitcoin’s journey has always been marked by debates—purists who see it as untouchable digital gold versus innovators pushing for utility. Schroé sits firmly in the latter camp, viewing yield generation as the next logical step. This tension mirrors broader splits in the community, such as recent disagreements among developers over filtering policies and governance. “The core team should heed the market and Bitcoin enthusiasts,” Schroé notes, underscoring that no single group holds absolute control.

For corporations, this evolution means aligning Bitcoin strategies with broader brand goals. Take WEEX, for example—a platform known for its secure, user-centric approach to cryptocurrency trading. By integrating Bitcoin treasury management with reliable exchanges like WEEX, companies can enhance their branding as forward-thinking innovators, emphasizing transparency and security in their yield pursuits. This alignment not only boosts credibility but also positions firms to capitalize on Bitcoin’s growth without exposing themselves to unnecessary risks. It’s like a brand choosing eco-friendly materials; it resonates with audiences seeking trustworthiness in a volatile space.

Evidence supports this shift: as of 2025, corporate adoption continues to climb, with firms recognizing Bitcoin’s resilience amid economic uncertainties. Drawing an analogy, just as companies diversified into tech stocks during the dot-com boom, today’s treasuries are betting on Bitcoin’s long-term value while seeking ways to amplify it through yield.

Tapping into Online Buzz: Google Searches, Twitter Discussions, and Latest Updates

The conversation around Bitcoin treasuries and yield isn’t confined to boardrooms—it’s exploding online. Frequently searched questions on Google as of 2025-10-27 include queries like “How can I earn yield on Bitcoin without losing custody?” and “What are the risks of Bitcoin lending platforms?” These reflect a public hungry for safe, practical advice, often leading users to explore sidechains and DeFi options.

On Twitter, discussions have heated up around topics such as “Bitcoin yield strategies post-ETF boom” and “Avoiding another Celsius-like collapse.” Influential posts from industry figures, including a recent thread by a prominent crypto analyst on October 25, 2025, highlighted how non-custodial protocols are gaining traction, with retweets emphasizing Botanix’s model. Official announcements add fuel: just last week, on October 20, 2025, a major Bitcoin conference revealed partnerships between sidechain projects and corporate treasuries, signaling mainstream momentum.

Latest updates as of 2025-10-27 show Bitcoin’s treasury landscape evolving rapidly. For instance, several private firms have publicly committed to yield-generating pilots, drawing on lessons from past markets. Twitter buzz includes endorsements from thought leaders praising secure platforms that align with user needs, much like WEEX’s reputation for robust security in trading Bitcoin assets. These developments underscore a maturing ecosystem, where yield isn’t a gamble but a calculated enhancement.

Real-World Examples and the Future of Bitcoin as Working Capital

Persuasive stories abound. Consider how some treasuries are already experimenting—staking on alternative chains or providing liquidity to earn fees. Schroé’s vision extends this to Bitcoin itself, creating a native economy where transactions fund yields, much like a bustling marketplace where vendors profit from foot traffic.

Comparisons to traditional finance help clarify: just as bonds offer yields backed by government guarantees, Bitcoin yield networks aim for blockchain-backed security. Evidence from Ethereum’s staking, which has distributed billions in rewards, suggests Bitcoin could follow suit without compromising its core principles.

For readers pondering their own Bitcoin strategies, this narrative invites reflection. Imagine your holdings not as a static nest egg but as a living asset, growing through smart, secure participation. With innovators like Schroé leading the charge, Bitcoin treasuries are poised to redefine corporate finance, blending preservation with productivity.

In wrapping up, the shift toward active Bitcoin treasuries represents more than a trend—it’s a transformation that could solidify Bitcoin’s place in global economics. By embracing yield opportunities thoughtfully, companies can turn potential into reality, all while navigating the philosophical and practical divides that make this space so dynamic.

FAQ

What are Bitcoin treasuries, and why are companies building them?
Bitcoin treasuries refer to corporate reserves of Bitcoin held as a strategic asset. Companies build them to hedge against inflation and diversify holdings, with totals now reaching 1.33 million BTC across public and private firms for long-term value preservation.

How does Botanix Labs enable yield on Bitcoin without custody risks?
Botanix uses a non-custodial sidechain where users stake Bitcoin into smart contracts, receiving yield-bearing tokens. Yields come from network fees, similar to Ethereum staking, allowing holders to earn returns while keeping control of their assets.

What makes corporate Bitcoin treasuries different from ETFs in terms of yield potential?
Unlike ETFs, which are regulated as passive vehicles and can’t lend or stake Bitcoin, corporate treasuries have flexibility to engage in DeFi and lending strategies, potentially generating active yields.

Are there risks involved in pursuing Bitcoin yield strategies?
Yes, risks include smart contract vulnerabilities, market volatility, and past failures like centralized lenders. Opting for non-custodial, transparent protocols can mitigate these, emphasizing security over high-risk promises.

How can I stay updated on Bitcoin treasury trends and yield opportunities?
Follow industry discussions on platforms like Twitter for real-time updates, search Google for guides on safe yield methods, and explore secure exchanges like WEEX for reliable Bitcoin management tools and insights.

Editor's Note: Citrini7's cyberpunk-themed AI doomsday prophecy has sparked widespread discussion across the internet. However, this article presents a more pragmatic counter perspective. If Citrini envisions a digital tsunami instantly engulfing civilization, this author sees the resilient resistance of the human bureaucratic system, the profoundly flawed existing software ecosystem, and the long-overlooked cornerstone of heavy industry. This is a frontal clash between Silicon Valley fantasy and the iron law of reality, reminding us that the singularity may come, but it will never happen overnight.

The following is the original content:

Renowned market commentator Citrini7 recently published a captivating and widely circulated AI doomsday novel. While he acknowledges that the probability of some scenes occurring is extremely low, as someone who has witnessed multiple economic collapse prophecies, I want to challenge his views and present a more deterministic and optimistic future.

Never Underestimate "Institutional Inertia"

In 2007, people thought that against the backdrop of "peak oil," the United States' geopolitical status had come to an end; in 2008, they believed the dollar system was on the brink of collapse; in 2014, everyone thought AMD and NVIDIA were done for. Then ChatGPT emerged, and people thought Google was toast... Yet every time, existing institutions with deep-rooted inertia have proven to be far more resilient than onlookers imagined.

When Citrini talks about the fear of institutional turnover and rapid workforce displacement, he writes, "Even in fields we think rely on interpersonal relationships, cracks are showing. Take the real estate industry, where buyers have tolerated 5%-6% commissions for decades due to the information asymmetry between brokers and consumers..."

Seeing this, I couldn't help but chuckle. People have been proclaiming the "death of real estate agents" for 20 years now! This hardly requires any superintelligence; with Zillow, Redfin, or Opendoor, it's enough. But this example precisely proves the opposite of Citrini's view: although this workforce has long been deemed obsolete in the eyes of most, due to market inertia and regulatory capture, real estate agents' vitality is more tenacious than anyone's expectations a decade ago.

A few months ago, I just bought a house. The transaction process mandated that we hire a real estate agent, with lofty justifications. My buyer's agent made about $50,000 in this transaction, while his actual work — filling out forms and coordinating between multiple parties — amounted to no more than 10 hours, something I could have easily handled myself. The market will eventually move towards efficiency, providing fair pricing for labor, but this will be a long process.

I deeply understand the ways of inertia and change management: I once founded and sold a company whose core business was driving insurance brokerages from "manual service" to "software-driven." The iron rule I learned is: human societies in the real world are extremely complex, and things always take longer than you imagine — even when you account for this rule. This doesn't mean that the world won't undergo drastic changes, but rather that change will be more gradual, allowing us time to respond and adapt.

The Software Industry Has "Infinite Demand" for Labor

Recently, the software sector has seen a downturn as investors worry about the lack of moats in the backend systems of companies like Monday, Salesforce, Asana, making them easily replicable. Citrini and others believe that AI programming heralds the end of SaaS companies: one, products become homogenized, with zero profits, and two, jobs disappear.

But everyone overlooks one thing: the current state of these software products is simply terrible.

I'm qualified to say this because I've spent hundreds of thousands of dollars on Salesforce and Monday. Indeed, AI can enable competitors to replicate these products, but more importantly, AI can enable competitors to build better products. Stock price declines are not surprising: an industry relying on long-term lock-ins, lacking competitiveness, and filled with low-quality legacy incumbents is finally facing competition again.

From a broader perspective, almost all existing software is garbage, which is an undeniable fact. Every tool I've paid for is riddled with bugs; some software is so bad that I can't even pay for it (I've been unable to use Citibank's online transfer for the past three years); most web apps can't even get mobile and desktop responsiveness right; not a single product can fully deliver what you want. Silicon Valley darlings like Stripe and Linear only garner massive followings because they are not as disgustingly unusable as their competitors. If you ask a seasoned engineer, "Show me a truly perfect piece of software," all you'll get is prolonged silence and blank stares.

Here lies a profound truth: even as we approach a "software singularity," the human demand for software labor is nearly infinite. It's well known that the final few percentage points of perfection often require the most work. By this standard, almost every software product has at least a 100x improvement in complexity and features before reaching demand saturation.

I believe that most commentators who claim that the software industry is on the brink of extinction lack an intuitive understanding of software development. The software industry has been around for 50 years, and despite tremendous progress, it is always in a state of "not enough." As a programmer in 2020, my productivity matches that of hundreds of people in 1970, which is incredibly impressive leverage. However, there is still significant room for improvement. People underestimate the "Jevons Paradox": Efficiency improvements often lead to explosive growth in overall demand.

This does not mean that software engineering is an invincible job, but the industry's ability to absorb labor and its inertia far exceed imagination. The saturation process will be very slow, giving us enough time to adapt.

Redemption of "Reindustrialization"

Of course, labor reallocation is inevitable, such as in the driving sector. As Citrini pointed out, many white-collar jobs will experience disruptions. For positions like real estate brokers that have long lost tangible value and rely solely on momentum for income, AI may be the final straw.

But our lifesaver lies in the fact that the United States has almost infinite potential and demand for reindustrialization. You may have heard of "reshoring," but it goes far beyond that. We have essentially lost the ability to manufacture the core building blocks of modern life: batteries, motors, small-scale semiconductors—the entire electricity supply chain is almost entirely dependent on overseas sources. What if there is a military conflict? What's even worse, did you know that China produces 90% of the world's synthetic ammonia? Once the supply is cut off, we can't even produce fertilizer and will face famine.

As long as you look to the physical world, you will find endless job opportunities that will benefit the country, create employment, and build essential infrastructure, all of which can receive bipartisan political support.

We have seen the economic and political winds shifting in this direction—discussions on reshoring, deep tech, and "American vitality." My prediction is that when AI impacts the white-collar sector, the path of least political resistance will be to fund large-scale reindustrialization, absorbing labor through a "giant employment project." Fortunately, the physical world does not have a "singularity"; it is constrained by friction.

We will rebuild bridges and roads. People will find that seeing tangible labor results is more fulfilling than spinning in the digital abstract world. The Salesforce senior product manager who lost a $180,000 salary may find a new job at the "California Seawater Desalination Plant" to end the 25-year drought. These facilities not only need to be built but also pursued with excellence and require long-term maintenance. As long as we are willing, the "Jevons Paradox" also applies to the physical world.

Towards Abundance

The goal of large-scale industrial engineering is abundance. The United States will once again achieve self-sufficiency, enabling large-scale, low-cost production. Moving beyond material scarcity is crucial: in the long run, if we do indeed lose a significant portion of white-collar jobs to AI, we must be able to maintain a high quality of life for the public. And as AI drives profit margins to zero, consumer goods will become extremely affordable, automatically fulfilling this objective.

My view is that different sectors of the economy will "take off" at different speeds, and the transformation in almost all areas will be slower than Citrini anticipates. To be clear, I am extremely bullish on AI and foresee a day when my own labor will be obsolete. But this will take time, and time gives us the opportunity to devise sound strategies.

At this point, preventing the kind of market collapse Citrini imagines is actually not difficult. The U.S. government's performance during the pandemic has demonstrated its proactive and decisive crisis response. If necessary, massive stimulus policies will quickly intervene. Although I am somewhat displeased by its inefficiency, that is not the focus. The focus is on safeguarding material prosperity in people's lives—a universal well-being that gives legitimacy to a nation and upholds the social contract, rather than stubbornly adhering to past accounting metrics or economic dogma.

If we can maintain sharpness and responsiveness in this slow but sure technological transformation, we will eventually emerge unscathed.

Source: Original Post Link

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