Middle East’s First Public Restaurant Group Allocates Treasury Reserves to Bitcoin

In a bold move signaling institutional adoption, the Middle East’s inaugural publicly traded restaurant conglomerate has added Bitcoin to its corporate treasury. This strategic allocation makes them the region’s first listed F&B group to hold cryptocurrency as a reserve asset.

The decision comes as global corporations increasingly diversify treasuries beyond traditional fiat holdings. While some analysts dismiss it as a publicity stunt, others see it as a savvy hedge against currency debasement—especially in oil-dependent economies flirting with dollar alternatives.

One cynical observer noted: ’At least their treasury won’t lose value as fast as their shawarma wraps at 3am.’

Though Bahrain has been pushing to brand itself as a fintech hub, the adoption of bitcoin by a non-tech, consumer-facing company speaks volumes. Coming from a major player in the food services industry, the move suggests broader institutional confidence in crypto’s long-term potential, especially as a hedge against inflation and currency risk.

This could also set a precedent across the Gulf, encouraging other companies to diversify their reserves and explore digital assets as part of their financial strategy. As regulatory clarity continues to improve across the region, more firms may follow suit—bringing Bitcoin one step closer to mainstream acceptance in the Middle East.