Bitcoin takes back seat as Trump, Bukele focus on trade and immigration

Donald Trump and Nayib Bukele met at the White House to discuss trade and immigration, notably excluding Bitcoin from their official agenda. The meeting focused on migration and bilateral security, marking Bukele's first official visit during Trump's second term. Trump suggested transferring convicted US citizens to El Salvador and requested the expansion of its prison system. The US has already deported hundreds of alleged criminals to El Salvador under a pre-existing agreement. Trump also hinted at potential exemptions for automakers impacted by his administration's trade war. Despite both leaders previously supporting Bitcoin, the meeting avoided discussion of digital assets. El Salvador adopted Bitcoin as legal tender, a move followed by Trump's recent pro-crypto stance. The US holds a large Bitcoin reserve, primarily seized from criminal activities. El Salvador's Bitcoin plans face IMF opposition, requiring them to scale back their digital asset involvement. Despite this, El Salvador continues its daily Bitcoin purchases and currently holds a substantial amount.