Breaking: VanEck Reveals China and Russia Using Bitcoin for Energy Trades

Amid an era of global economic shifts, Bitcoin is steadily carving its position as a key player in international trade. Countries like China and Russia are reportedly utilizing Bitcoin to settle energy transactions, signaling a move toward cryptocurrency adoption amid ongoing de-dollarization trends. With geopolitical tensions and policy shifts shaping monetary systems worldwide, Bitcoin’s potential as a neutral, decentralized settlement layer is gaining attention.

### Countries Embrace Bitcoin as a Financial Solution Amid De-Dollarization

VanEck recently released a report titled “Digital Assets: De-dollarization Moves Bitcoin Towards Monetary Role,” authored by Matthew Sigel, which positions Bitcoin as a critical entity in the evolving global financial landscape. The growing fragmentation in global trade has prompted nations to explore decentralized alternatives to U.S. dollar settlements, with Bitcoin leading the charge. The report highlights that countries such as China and Russia are increasingly incorporating Bitcoin for oil and energy transactions, showcasing its tangible role in geopolitical strategy.

Bitcoin’s reaction to economic developments further demonstrates its growing importance. Following the Trump administration’s April 2 announcement of new tariffs, causing a temporary price dip from $85,000 to $81,000, Bitcoin continued to outperform traditional financial indices like the Nasdaq. Interestingly, VanEck emphasizes that while slower economic growth doesn’t inherently boost Bitcoin, it could indirectly benefit from central banks’ dovish responses, such as increased liquidity injections from institutions like the Federal Reserve.

Real-world adoption of Bitcoin is becoming more prevalent. Bolivia plans to utilize cryptocurrency for energy imports, and French energy giant EDF is experimenting with Bitcoin mining from surplus electricity. Such activities further blur the lines between digital assets and traditional financial frameworks, steering cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin closer to becoming mainstream trading tools.

### Bitcoin Gains Momentum in Response to Dollar Weakness

At a time when U.S. trade policies are becoming increasingly aggressive, Bitcoin is leveraging its attributes to thrive. The Trump administration recently announced a 125% tariff on Chinese imports, exacerbating trade tensions. This move triggered a 5.6% Bitcoin price surge, reaching $81,636 in just an hour. Meanwhile, China retaliated by imposing higher tariffs on U.S. goods, further intensifying the global economic standoff.

Russia, as one of Bitcoin’s prominent adopters, underscores the cryptocurrency’s growing role in global trade. Reports dating back to December reveal Russia’s steady shift toward Bitcoin for cross-border payments, setting a compelling precedent. As trade wars widen, the appeal of a decentralized alternative like Bitcoin seems to strengthen.

This trend is exacerbated by fluctuations in the U.S. Dollar Index, which has dropped over 7% year-to-date, hovering around 102.5. A weaker dollar aligns with Bitcoin’s narrative as a hedge against inflation and monetary debasement, which encourages both retail investors and institutional entities to consider Bitcoin as a viable asset in uncertain times.

### The Growing Movement of De-Dollarization and Bitcoin’s Ascendancy

The gradual pivot away from the U.S. dollar, often referred to as de-dollarization, is more than a temporary trend—it’s a systemic evolution. VanEck’s findings highlight that nations are no longer content with a dollar-dominated global system, instead exploring decentralized financial solutions like Bitcoin to navigate global uncertainties. Matthew Sigel also emphasized the growing influence of Bitcoin in this shift, affirming its role as both a hedge and a reliable settlement medium.

Analysts agree that more countries are likely to follow the examples of China, Russia, and even European nations that are gravitating toward alternatives. Jane Foley, Rabobank’s head of forex strategy, notes that ironically, the U.S. government’s isolationist policies are catalyzing the very de-dollarization trends they aim to suppress. This macroeconomic realignment could see Bitcoin become a key financial instrument for mitigating geopolitical risks and protecting monetary sovereignty.

For investors, VanEck recommends watching key metrics like Federal Reserve policy announcements, Bitcoin ETF flows, and on-chain transaction activity. These indicators could signal Bitcoin’s trajectory as a strategic asset in our shifting global economy. As traditional financial systems face mounting pressure, cryptocurrencies, spearheaded by Bitcoin, are cementing their place as tools of empowerment in an evolving monetary landscape.

### Key Bitcoin Metrics (2025 Snapshot):

The global financial landscape is evolving, and Bitcoin’s rise reflects a broader shift toward decentralized and neutral monetary systems. From geopolitical adoption to individual transactions, Bitcoin is emerging as not just an investment vehicle but a fundamental asset driving the future of international finance.