
Prenetics, the health science company backed by retired soccer star David Beckham, has paused its Bitcoin treasury strategy. The company stopped acquiring Bitcoin on December 4. The decision comes after months of weakness in the cryptocurrency market.
Prenetics stated that it will not pursue further BTC purchases for now. Instead, the company plans to redirect investments to its consumer nutrition brand, IM8. The move reflects a cautious approach by companies that previously increased digital asset exposure. Management emphasized protecting long-term shareholder value during the current market slump.
Prenetics highlighted stronger growth potential in its consumer business compared to additional Bitcoin exposure. Co-founded with Beckham, IM8 markets an all-in-one daily nutritious supplement. Within 11 months of its introduction, the brand received more than 100 million recurring revenue annually.
The company aims to focus on the scaling of IM8 operations rather than the growth of the cryptocurrency holdings. This transition signifies a strategic shift in the high-risk assets to core business. Prenetics believes in its wellness market for consumers as a sustainable source of revenue.
Although Prenetics halted further purchases, it retained its existing 510 BTC, valued at approximately $44.8 million. The company also holds more than $70 million in cash and equivalents. Earlier in June, Prenetics invested $20 million to acquire 187 Bitcoin at an average price of $106,712 per coin.
At current prices, the holdings show an unrealized loss of around 17%. The company’s stock traded near $16.42, showing minor intraday gains. Shares have risen more than 189% since the start of the year despite recent pullbacks. Investors appear confident in Prenetics’ focus on its core consumer business.
Corporate enthusiasm for Bitcoin treasury strategies has slowed as prices fell in October. Many companies are reevaluating treasury risks amid continued volatility. Some firms, such as Strategy Inc., continue accumulating Bitcoin despite market uncertainty. Globally, policies also affect institutional sentiment, as seen in Russia’s recent allowance of cryptocurrency purchases.
Russian-linked money laundering remains a global issue. Analysts predict potential near-term BTC declines, with forecasts suggesting possible drops to $60,000 in early 2026. Prenetics’ decision to maintain holdings but stop accumulation highlights disciplined financial planning. The move may indicate a broader shift in corporate digital-asset strategies.