Bitcoin (BTC) vs. Gold (XAU): Key Differences According to Samson Mow

Samson Mow, CEO of JAN3, asserts that Bitcoin (BTC) differs significantly from gold (XAU) despite common comparisons. The primary distinction lies in the nature of ownership.

Key Ownership Difference

For Bitcoin (BTC), knowledge is critical to ownership, with the private key serving as the main requirement. In contrast, gold (XAU) operates as a bearer asset; possession of the physical metal equates to ownership.

> Gold is a bearer asset. If you physically possess it, you own it.
> Bitcoin is a knower asset. If you know the seed phrase, you own it.
> — Samson Mow (@Excellion) March 15, 2025

Mow highlighted this difference in a recent post shared with his 340,000 followers, suggesting that the traditional concept of ‘bearing’ has evolved.

Bitcoin, often termed ‘digital gold,’ shares some characteristics with gold, including a lack of centralized emission and a limited supply, making it preferable to inflation-prone fiat currencies. Mow advocates the bullish theory that Bitcoin could reach $1,000,000.

Gold Prices Surge Amid Uncertainty

Recently, gold (XAU) achieved a record high exceeding $3,000 due to global geopolitical tensions and recession fears, demonstrating its role as a secure reserve asset. With April futures reaching $3,001.30, analysts like Ross Norman predict further increases to $3,200 in 2025.

Conversely, Bitcoin (BTC) struggles to overcome bearish trends, currently trading at $83,900, down 23% from its peak. The recent strategic reserve announcements have not generated much excitement, while the Cryptocurrency Fear and Greed Index registers at 46/100, indicating fear in the market.