Saylor's Strategy the First Bitcoin Treasury Company Rated by Major Credit Agency

Core Viewpoint - Strategy (MSTR) has received a B- credit rating from S&P Global, indicating significant financial risk due to its business model focused on holding bitcoin, despite its large market cap and access to capital markets [1][2] Company Transformation - The company has shifted from an enterprise software provider to a publicly traded bitcoin holding vehicle, utilizing excess cash to purchase bitcoin and financing operations through convertible debt, preferred stock, and equity [3] Industry Impact - Strategy is the first bitcoin treasury firm to receive a rating from a major credit agency, which could lead to increased market demand for treasury companies, as noted by industry leaders [4] Financial Position - As of mid-2025, the company's bitcoin holdings were valued at approximately $70 billion, while total outstanding convertible debt and preferred equity stood at about $15 billion. However, S&P highlighted that the company has minimal actual cash and unreliable operating income, with a negative operating cash flow of $37 million from January to June 2025 [5] Currency Mismatch - The company faces a "currency mismatch" as its assets are primarily in bitcoin while its debts and dividend obligations are in U.S. dollars, potentially leading to a liquidity crunch if bitcoin prices decline and capital cannot be raised [6] Capital Constraints - A key constraint on the company's rating is its "negative total adjusted capital," as S&P excludes bitcoin from equity calculations due to its volatility, resulting in a capital shortfall despite owning significant digital assets [7]