Metaplanet Ambitions: A $26 Million Bond Raise & MSCI Japan Index Inclusion

By: Isha Das

Japanese Bitcoin investment firm, Metaplanet, has made significant strides in securing its position within the digital asset space with a successful $26 million (4 billion yen) bond raise. The funds, garnered through the issuance of zero-interest, unsecured, and unguaranteed bonds, were contributed primarily by EVO Funds. This financial maneuver intends to bolster Metaplanet’s Bitcoin reserves, forming a critical part of its broader financial strategy. As highlighted in a recent statement, this fundraising effort is aligned with the company’s plan to migrate towards a Bitcoin-focused treasury model.

Metaplanet's strategic pivot comes in response to Japan’s challenging economic conditions, characterized by prolonged negative interest rates, a high national debt, and the depreciation of the yen. In these circumstances, Bitcoin is being regarded as a hedge against financial instability, with the potential to guard against currency devaluation and provide a pathway for long-term growth. As of January 28, 2025, the company holds 1,761.98 BTC, valued at approximately JPY 27.9 billion ($181 million), as part of its ambitious target to accumulate a total of 10,000 BTC by the end of 2025.

Adding to its goals, Metaplanet plans to expand further by tapping into global financial markets through additional bond issuances and stock acquisition rights. The ultimate aim is to achieve a total holding of 21,000 BTC by 2026. This ambitious accumulation strategy underscores the firm’s commitment to positioning itself as a leading player in Asia's Bitcoin landscape and beyond.

In another significant development, Metaplanet is set to be included in the Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) Japan Index starting February 28, 2025. This includes an elevating move as it not only highlights Metaplanet’s growing stature but also marks its acceptance into a prestigious benchmark commonly employed by institutional investors for gauging exposure to Japan’s equity market. Joining the ranks of major corporations such as Tokyo Electric and Nintendo, this move is anticipated to boost investor confidence, enhance stock liquidity, and bring greater stability to the firm’s valuation. CEO Simon Gerovich has conveyed that this inclusion not only validates Metaplanet’s strategic progress but also enhances its reputability and trust within the financial sector.