MicroStrategy is a ‘desperate’ Ponzi scheme: analyst

As a seasoned researcher with over two decades of experience analyzing financial markets, I must say that Jacob King’s critique of MicroStrategy raises some valid concerns. His comparison of their business model to a Ponzi scheme is not far-fetched, given the reliance on continuous price increases for Bitcoin.

Jacob King, the analyst, has called MicroStrategy’s Bitcoin-centric business strategy a “massive scheme,” arguing that it is not sustainable and is likely to fail in the long run.

In a comprehensive article for Whalewire’s newsletter, King expressed his critical viewpoint towards MicroStrategy. He suggested that the company’s approach of borrowing money to acquire Bitcoin (BTC) could be likened to a “massive pyramid scheme,” or more commonly known as a “giant Ponzi scheme.

King outlined that the business strategy is based on a continuous cycle: by borrowing money (debt) or selling shares (equity) to acquire Bitcoin, this action boosts the digital currency’s value, subsequently enhancing MicroStrategy’s total market worth.

MicroStrategy’s business strategy appears to be based on a continuous cycle: they raise funds through issuing debt or stocks to purchase Bitcoin, which in turn inflates the value of Bitcoin. This increased value raises MicroStrategy’s market capitalization, boosts its position within financial indexes, and attracts more investors who view it as a safe investment option. With a higher valuation, they can continue to issue funds…

— Jacob King (@JacobKinge) December 17, 2024

With this increased appraisal, the business can secure additional funds for further Bitcoin investments. However, it’s crucial to note that the succession of events hinges upon the persistent increase in Bitcoin’s market value, as cautioned by King.

According to King’s words, if Bitcoin experiences a slump or downturn, it’s like watching a house of cards fall over. He likened MicroStrategy’s dependence on Bitcoin’s value to an addict clinging to their source of supply, calling this strategy “desperate” in nature.

Michael Saylor’s duplicitous stance on Bitcoin

King’s criticism extended to Michael Saylor, MicroStrategy’s co-founder and executive chairman. He accused Saylor of tying the company’s future to an unsustainable strategy and highlighted the stark contrast between Saylor’s current enthusiasm for Bitcoin and his earlier skepticism.

In 2013, Saylor described Bitcoin as worthless, according to King. However, now, King claims that MicroStrategy’s future is bound up in a self-reinforcing cycle that relies on continuous price escalations, which some consider unsustainable.

The analyst made an additional point, implying that the potential downfall of MicroStrategy might even outdo the magnitude of financial crises like those experienced by FTX and Enron. Despite facing criticism, MicroStrategy has persistently advocated for its Bitcoin-focused approach, maintaining that it delivers lasting benefits to shareholders.

King’s critique comes as Bitcoin trades at $104,300, reflecting a surge in its value.

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2024-12-18 21:43