Japanese technology company Metaplanet announced plans to purchase Bitcoin $78,500 worth 2 billion Japanese yen (JPY). However, this announcement failed to convince the market, leading to a nearly 9% drop in the company’s stock price, which fell below the 400 JPY mark. This wave of selling is part of a broader downward trend in the Japanese stock market.
2 Billion JPY Bonds Dedicated Solely to Bitcoin
To meet its funding needs, Metaplanet management opted to issue a series of zero-coupon bonds, specifically designed for the EVO FUND. The total value of these bonds is 2 billion JPY, consisting of units with a nominal value of 50 million JPY, set to mature on September 30, 2025. The company emphasized that all funds raised from this issuance will be used exclusively for Bitcoin purchases.
The strategic direction of Metaplanet is becoming clearer, influenced by Eric Trump’s role as a consultant on the board. Simon Gerovich’s social media post, “Buying the dip!” hints at the company’s risky yet long-term profit-driven approach. The firm also disclosed that it added a total of 3,350 BTC to its balance sheet over the past year.
However, investors are cautiously reacting to the abrupt and aggressive shift towards Bitcoin. The decline in the company’s stock value arises not only from speculative concerns but also from the fragile environment of the Japanese market.
Trump’s Shadow and Global Uncertainty in Markets
The Japanese stock market experienced a nearly 4% decline just hours before the U.S. announced its “Liberation Day.” Plans to implement new trade tariffs by the U.S. and rising global risks have shaken market confidence. Japanese investors, in particular, are sensitive to the economic impacts of geopolitical tensions.
As Bitcoin prices dipped below $81,500 during the Asian session, investors were seen fleeing from risky assets. The Economic Policy Uncertainty Index has reached levels 80% higher than during the 2008 crisis, further contributing to this tension. All these developments are directly influencing Japanese companies’ investment strategies.
Metaplanet’s decision to invest in Bitcoin has garnered additional attention due to the current volatile environment. While the company is taking bold steps, market sentiment does not always align with such decisions. During periods of deep financial uncertainty, investors’ perceptions of risk become significantly more sensitive.