Metaplanet, an investment firm listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange, has announced plans to issue bonds worth 1.75 billion yen (approximately $11.3 million) to expand its Bitcoin (BTC) holdings. This move continues the debt-financing strategy pioneered by MicroStrategy, a prominent U.S.-based business intelligence company.
Metaplanet will issue one-year bonds with an annual interest rate of 0.36%. These bonds are set to mature on November 17, 2025, and are secured by the Royal Oak Gotanda Hotel, a property owned by Wen Tokyo Inc., a subsidiary of Metaplanet.
According to the announcement, all proceeds from this bond issuance will be used to purchase Bitcoin. This marks the third time the company has issued bonds to invest in cryptocurrency, underscoring its long-term commitment to digital assets.
Metaplanet began purchasing Bitcoin in April 2023 as a hedge against yen volatility and Japan’s debt challenges. To date, the company has accumulated 1,018 BTC, valued at approximately $92.33 million, according to Bitcoin Treasuries. Although this figure is significantly smaller than MicroStrategy’s 279,420 BTC, Metaplanet has emerged as one of the few Japanese companies leading this trend.
In addition to direct Bitcoin purchases, Metaplanet employs options strategies to optimize its holdings. Most recently, the company acquired an additional 156.7 BTC at a cost of 1.6 billion yen.
The bond issuance announcement had an immediate positive impact on Metaplanet’s stock price, which rose by 5% on the Tokyo Stock Exchange following the news. The company also reassured investors that the financial impact of this issuance on its annual results is expected to be minimal.
Metaplanet has also launched a new shareholder benefits program, offering perks such as Bitcoin-related experiences and discounts through partnerships with SBI VC Trade, The Bitcoin Conference, and Webull Securities. These initiatives aim to encourage long-term investment and strengthen shareholder engagement.
Related news: Metaplanet Stock Rises 15% After Purchasing 107 Bitcoin
