Japanese investment firm Metaplanet has announced its decision to raise a remarkable 116 billion yen (approximately $745.5 million) to increase its Bitcoin $0.000074 holdings. The company plans to achieve this by issuing “zero discount stock guarantees.” Metaplanet aims to expand its Bitcoin portfolio to 10,000 BTC by the end of 2025, marking this fundraising effort as the largest acquisition attempt for cryptocurrencies in Asian markets to date. The firm has strategically positioned itself to benefit from the depreciation of the Japanese yen against the US dollar and the emergence of new Bitcoin records.
Metaplanet’s Bitcoin Investment Strategy
Metaplanet has gained attention with its “Bitcoin Standard” strategy, adopted in April 2024. The company is accelerating its efforts, having purchased 619.7 BTC in December 2023. Currently holding 1,761 BTC, Metaplanet targets increasing this number to 10,000 by the end of 2025 and 21,000 by the end of 2026. CEO Simon Gerovich stated, “The market recognizes us as Tokyo’s leading Bitcoin company. We will carry this momentum to global leadership.”
The chosen fundraising method of stock guarantees provides investors the right to purchase shares at a specified price. Metaplanet plans to use this tool to quickly acquire Bitcoin. The company cited the anticipated record high for Bitcoin in January 2025 and the yen nearing 160 against the dollar as key reasons for its strategy.
Bitcoin Investments in Japan
Increasing inflation and the depreciation of the yen are driving companies in Japan towards alternative assets. Metaplanet sees Bitcoin, a dollar-based asset, as a “hedging tool.” The company’s stock has appreciated by 16.36% since the beginning of the year, closing at 4,160 yen on Tuesday, reflecting investor confidence in this strategy.
Metaplanet’s Bitcoin-focused approach is also changing how financial institutions in Japan view cryptocurrencies. The relatively flexible regulations regarding cryptocurrencies in the country provide companies with room to invest in Bitcoin. Experts indicate that similar initiatives may increase in the Asian market.