Social media platform Reddit has divested most of its cryptocurrency holdings, marking a decisive shift away from its pioneering role in digital asset adoption. The sale generated $6.87m and contributed to the company's first profit in its 19-year history.
The divestment, disclosed in recent regulatory filings, saw the company liquidate significant positions in Bitcoin and Ethereum during the third quarter of 2024. The move helped Reddit achieve a modest profit of nearly $30m.
The platform had first revealed its crypto investments in February 2024 through an initial public offering filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Those holdings included Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Polygon tokens, with Ethereum and Polygon primarily designated for virtual goods payments.
Reddit's relationship with cryptocurrency dates back to 2013, when it became one of the first major platforms to accept digital assets for premium memberships. The company later expanded its blockchain initiatives, launching an Ethereum-based Community Points system in 2020 and introducing Polygon-based NFT avatars the following year.
"The sale represents a significant strategic shift for a platform that has been instrumental in crypto's mainstream adoption," says a digital assets analyst at a leading investment bank. The company developed its own blockchain wallet, "Vault," and introduced two native tokens, MOON and BRICK, to incentivise user engagement.
However, recent SEC filings reveal growing caution toward digital assets. While acknowledging the sector's "significant potential," Reddit expressed concerns about long-term adoption prospects. The company has implemented stricter controls, requiring board approval for future cryptocurrency purchases.
The platform has also dismantled several crypto-focused initiatives. Its Community Points system has been decommissioned, citing scalability issues. Cryptocurrency payment acceptance, once a flagship feature, has been discontinued.
"The timing of the sale is notable," observes a crypto market strategist at a major trading firm. "Reddit's exit preceded Bitcoin's recent rally toward its all-time high of $73,737." The company's new investment policy restricts potential future purchases to Bitcoin, Ethereum, and confirmed non-security tokens. This cautious approach reflects broader institutional uncertainty about cryptocurrency's role in corporate treasury management.
Reddit's decision marks a significant moment in corporate cryptocurrency adoption. The platform's retreat from digital assets could influence other companies' strategies regarding blockchain technology integration.