MicroStrategy Bitcoin Debt At Risk If Cash Flows Don’t Improve

MicroStrategy doubled its Bitcoin holdings over the past year but they don't contributed to the company's bottom line raising concerns.
By Bhushan Akolkar
MicroStrategy & Michael Saylor Deny Wrongdoing Despite $40M Settlement In Tax Fraud Case

Highlights

  • MicroStrategy to release its second-quarter results today, analysts have modest expectations for revenue growth.
  • The company is using software business proceeds to pay $45 million in interest expenses.
  • Due to tight cash conditions, MicroStrategy might delay additional Bitcoin purchases this year.

MicroStrategy (NASDAQ: MSTR), the world’s largest corporate holder of Bitcoin, has been lauded for adding a huge Bitcoin pile on its balance sheet along with other companies joining the bandwagon. However, market analysts have started paying closer attention to the company’s underlying software business.

Advertisement
Advertisement

MicroStrategy on Radar

Chairman Michael Saylor set the precedence in September 2020 on how to best invest the cash generated from operations by making the company’s first Bitcoin purchase. Over the past four years, Microstrategy’s BTC stockpile has surged to a massive $15 billion while the revenue from its software business has stagnated, reports Bloomberg.

With the company scheduled to release its second-quarter results later today, August 1, analysts are having little expectations with the revenue pump. Speaking to Bloomberg, Lance Vitanza, an analyst at TD Cowen said:

“For me, I think the big question is just making sure that their cash flows are going to be sufficient to cover the incremental interest expense associated with the convertible debt they’ve issued. If my estimates are right, they don’t have a lot of room for error if their software business underperforms.”

Interestingly, TD Cowen still has a “buy” rating for the MSTR Stock which has outperformed Bitcoin over the past 18 months, with 134% returns since the beginning of 2024.

Advertisement
Advertisement

Interest on Bitcoin Debts Is Rising

Over the last four years, MicroStrategy has used various different means to raise money to buy Bitcoin, apart from using operational cash. This includes issuing over $2 billion of convertible notes.

Furthermore, the company is using the proceeds from its software business to pay for interest-related expenses as well as taxes. TD Cowen analyst Vitanza estimates that the company has over $45 million in interest expenses along with $20 million in other cash expenses, and $82 million in earnings before taxes.

Thus, Vitanza says that amid the tight cash conditions, the company might have to hold off from making additional Bitcoin purchases this year. Although the software firm has doubled its Bitcoin holdings, it doesn’t add up to the company’s bottom since those BTCs don’t generate any income.

Also Read: Hong Kong’s Largest Online Broker Launches Bitcoin & Crypto Trading

Advertisement
Advertisement

Earnings Expectations

Analysts surveyed by Bloomberg expect the company to report a quarterly loss of 78 cents per share, with revenue remaining steady at $119.3 million. In the same period last year, the company earned $1.68 per share. MicroStrategy will likely incur an impairment charge on its Bitcoin holdings, potentially resulting in an unprofitable outcome for 12 of the 16 quarters since it began purchasing Bitcoin, according to Bloomberg calculations.

Interestingly, none of the company’s debt is maturing until 2027. Thus, Bloomberg notes that even if the company’s software business falters, it has numerous options to meet its financial obligations. To raise funds, the company could issue another convertible bond, secure a loan, issue more shares, or even sell Bitcoin. The BTC price is currently trading 3.20% down at $64,527.

Besides, the accounting change coming in 2025 could also impact MicroStratgy’s cash flow. As per the company filing, it would need to pay a 15% corporate alternative minimum tax if the income from its average annual adjusted financial statement exceeds $1 billion.

Also Read: European Central Bank Braces For Two More Rate Cuts, Is US Fed Next?

Advertisement
Bhushan Akolkar
Bhushan is a seasoned crypto writer with over eight years of experience spanning more than 10,000 contributions across multiple platforms like CoinGape, CoinSpeaker, Bitcoinist, Crypto News Flash, and others. Being a Fintech enthusiast, he loves reporting across Crypto, Blockchain, DeFi, Global Macros with a keen understanding in financial markets. 

He is committed to continuous learning and stays motivated by sharing the knowledge he acquires. In his free time, Bhushan enjoys reading thriller fiction novels and occasionally explores his culinary skills. Bhushan has a bachelors degree in electronics engineering, however, his interest in finance and economics drives him to crypto and blockchain.
Why trust CoinGape: CoinGape has covered the cryptocurrency industry since 2017, aiming to provide informative insights to our readers. Our journalists and analysts bring years of experience in market analysis and blockchain technology to ensure factual accuracy and balanced reporting. By following our Editorial Policy, our writers verify every source, fact-check each story, rely on reputable sources, and attribute quotes and media correctly. We also follow a rigorous Review Methodology when evaluating exchanges and tools. From emerging blockchain projects and coin launches to industry events and technical developments, we cover all facets of the digital asset space with unwavering commitment to timely, relevant information.
Investment disclaimer: The content reflects the author’s personal views and current market conditions. Please conduct your own research before investing in cryptocurrencies, as neither the author nor the publication is responsible for any financial losses.
Ad Disclosure: This site may feature sponsored content and affiliate links. All advertisements are clearly labeled, and ad partners have no influence over our editorial content.