Former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson called Bitcoin a 'Ponzi scheme' in a Daily Mail op-ed, citing a friend who lost £20,000-roughly $26,500-after investing in BTC through a fraudulent promoter.
Johnson argued that even decades-old Pokémon cards hold more tangible value and tradability than Bitcoin, describing children’s enduring fascination with the collectibles.

The remarks triggered immediate criticism from Bitcoin advocates. Michael Saylor stated: 'Bitcoin has no issuer, no promoter, and no guaranteed return-just an open, decentralized monetary network.'
Pierre Rochard, CEO of The Bitcoin Bond Company, countered that the UK itself operates as a 'giant Ponzi scheme' financed by debt.
