Australia, US Advance Bitcoin-Backed Mortgage Integration

Bitcoin-backed loans and their integration into the housing market are gaining traction both in Australia and the United States, offering new financial pathways for crypto holders. In Australia, Block Earner plans to become the first company to offer Bitcoin-backed home deposit loans, allowing borrowers to leverage up to 60% of their Bitcoin's value for deposits, targeting a growing base of crypto holders. Meanwhile, in the U.S., federal agencies like Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac have been directed by the FHFA to explore incorporating digital assets from regulated exchanges into mortgage risk assessments, enabling borrowers to use Bitcoin as collateral without selling it, though with strict valuation discounts and eligibility criteria to manage volatility risks. U.S. lawmakers, including House Financial Services Committee Chair French Hill, support recognizing Bitcoin as an asset comparable to stocks or bonds for mortgage qualification, coinciding with ongoing legislative efforts to establish clearer crypto regulations. This evolving landscape highlights both the potential for expanding homeownership access through crypto wealth and the challenges posed by Bitcoin's price volatility and regulatory uncertainties. As these initiatives develop, Bitcoin-backed loans are becoming a significant financial tool that could reshape liquidity options for individuals and businesses worldwide.