IMF Praises El Salvador Growth, Bitcoin Tensions Ease

• IMF says El Salvador’s economy is outperforming expectations, with real GDP growth projected at around 4%.
• El Salvador added over 1,000 BTC in November, lifting total holdings near 7,500 BTC despite IMF loan talks.
• IMF loan talks progress as Chivo wallet sale advances and Bitcoin policy discussions remain ongoing.

El Salvador received renewed attention after the International Monetary Fund praised its economic performance. According to the IMF, the country’s economy is expanding faster than expected, with real GDP projected at 4%. The update followed months of negotiations tied to an IMF loan, while El Salvador continued adding Bitcoin during November’s market downturn.

IMF Review Notes Economic Momentum

According to the International Monetary Fund, El Salvador’s economy continues to outperform expectations. The IMF cited improved investor confidence, record remittance inflows, and strong investment activity as key drivers.

Notably, real GDP growth is projected to reach about 4% this year. Furthermore, the IMF described the 2026 economic outlook as “very good.” In March, El Salvador reached an agreement for a $3.5 billion loan package.

The financing falls under the Extended Fund Facility program. Meanwhile, IMF officials said engagement with President Nayib Bukele’s administration remains ongoing. Discussions focus on completing the second review of the EFF program.

Bitcoin Accumulation Continues Amid Talks

Alongside economic updates, Bitcoin policy remained in focus. Notably, the IMF statement omitted earlier suggestions that El Salvador would pause Bitcoin accumulation. Instead, the government continued buying during November’s price decline.

During that month, El Salvador added more than 1,000 BTC to its reserves. This marked a departure from its usual daily purchase strategy. As a result, total holdings now stand near 7,500 BTC.

At current prices, the stash is valued around $660 million. On-chain data from Arkham confirms continued accumulation activity. However, IMF officials stated that discussions around the Bitcoin project are ongoing.

Chivo Wallet and Loan Conditions Progress

As negotiations continue, the IMF provided updates on structural commitments. Notably, talks regarding the sale of the government-run Chivo wallet are “well advanced,” according to the IMF. The discussions center on improving transparency, protecting public resources, and reducing financial risks.

Under the EFF framework, El Salvador agreed to adjust its Bitcoin-related policies. This includes allowing private firms to operate freely with Bitcoin. Meanwhile, the IMF said close cooperation with Salvadoran authorities will continue. The goal remains finalizing reforms required to complete the next program review.