Strive Asset Management, a financial services firm co-founded by former presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy, announced its new focus on Bitcoin as part of its core investment strategy. The company, which manages $1.7 billion in assets, is relocating its headquarters from Ohio to Texas, a state becoming increasingly favorable to cryptocurrency and decentralized finance initiatives.
In a press release, Strive detailed its commitment to “integrating Bitcoin into standard portfolios of everyday Americans” as part of a pro-capitalism approach to wealth management. The firm cited factors such as rising global debt, higher fixed-income yields, inflationary pressures, and geopolitical tensions as reasons Bitcoin now serves as a “valid hedge” in diversified portfolios.
Backing and Strategic Alignment with Pro-Crypto Political Figures
Strive’s announcement comes on the heels of a successful $30 million Series B funding round led by Cantor Fitzgerald, a prominent investment bank. Notably, Cantor Fitzgerald’s CEO, Howard Lutnick, is a known supporter of former President Donald Trump, having co-chaired Trump’s transition team. Ramaswamy himself has served as a campaign surrogate for Trump, adding a political layer to Strive’s market strategy, especially as the U.S. election nears.
With Trump vocalizing pro-Bitcoin sentiments, analysts believe his re-election could lead to a favorable crypto environment. Analysts from Bernstein recently projected that Bitcoin’s price could reach $90,000 if Trump wins the White House, with similar predictions aligning with Strive’s timing.
Ramaswamy emphasized Strive’s commitment to “true financial freedom” in a recent statement. “The moment is now ripe to launch a pro-capitalism wealth management business focused on integrating Bitcoin into standard portfolios,” he said, underscoring shifts in attitudes toward environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles and how Bitcoin aligns with his vision.
“Anti-Woke” Investment Strategy and GOP-Backed Partnerships
Strive’s commitment to Bitcoin aligns with its reputation as an “anti-woke” investment company, positioning itself as a counter to mainstream ESG-focused funds. Ramaswamy’s firm has other backers tied to the Republican ticket, including Narya Capital, co-founded by Ohio Senator and Trump running mate JD Vance, which also invested in Strive’s Series B round.
Leading Strive’s new wealth management division are industry veterans Gary Dorfman and Randol Curtis. Dorfman, formerly of Sanford C. Bernstein, will serve as Strive’s president, while Curtis, previously deputy CIO at One Capital Management, will take on the role of CIO. Their combined expertise will guide the firm as it aims to make Bitcoin a staple in traditional investment portfolios.
Ramaswamy’s Vision for Bitcoin in the U.S. Financial Landscape
Earlier this year, Ramaswamy was a featured speaker at a Bitcoin conference in Nashville, where Trump expressed his ambition to make America a “Bitcoin superpower.” Ramaswamy, a vocal crypto advocate, had previously stated that he would implement a “comprehensive crypto policy framework” if elected president. Although he has since exited the 2024 presidential race, Ramaswamy remains dedicated to crypto advocacy through Strive.
In an interesting turn, Ramaswamy had predicted Vice President Kamala Harris’s recent pro-crypto stance, suggesting she would eventually align her policies with the interests of pro-crypto voters. Harris has since expressed support for regulatory frameworks governing digital assets, further legitimizing Bitcoin as an essential part of the future financial system.
Conclusion: Bitcoin as a Core Part of Strive’s Future
With its move to Texas and a renewed focus on Bitcoin, Strive Asset Management is positioning itself as a pioneer in integrating digital assets into traditional financial portfolios. Leveraging political alliances, strategic partnerships, and the backing of influential GOP figures, Strive aims to provide American investors with a decentralized alternative to traditional assets.
As the political landscape shifts, Ramaswamy and his team at Strive are capitalizing on growing interest in crypto, projecting Bitcoin as an essential hedge against global economic challenges. Whether Strive’s embrace of Bitcoin will resonate with mainstream investors remains to be seen, but the firm’s bold step signifies a growing alignment between crypto-friendly policies and financial management strategies in the U.S.