Key Points
- Metaplanet Inc is launching an offshore subsidiary to increase its focus on Bitcoin investments.
- The new subsidiary, Metaplanet Capital Ltd, will directly hold Bitcoin and conduct related businesses.
Metaplanet Inc, a Tokyo-based investment firm, has recently publicized the creation of an offshore subsidiary in the British Virgin Islands. This strategic move is part of the company’s plan to bolster its Bitcoin holding management strategy.
Metaplanet’s Strategy for Bitcoin
The newly formed subsidiary, named Metaplanet Capital Ltd, has been approved by Metaplanet’s Board of Directors. The subsidiary will directly hold Bitcoin and manage businesses related to this leading digital asset. Metaplanet envisions a future where Bitcoin will constitute a larger part of its balance sheet over time.
The launch of the new firm is scheduled for July, with Metaplanet’s CEO, Simon Gerovich, acting as a representative. The establishment of this subsidiary is a strategic move to capitalize on potential growth opportunities abroad.
Metaplanet also pointed out that this decision allows the company to benefit from the advantageous regulatory environment in the British Virgin Islands and fine-tune its financial strategies. The move by Metaplanet sets an example for other companies on how to expand Bitcoin globally.
Financial Details and Future Plans
Metaplanet Capital Ltd has an initial capital of $10,000, with the parent company, Metaplanet Inc, acting as the major shareholder. The offshore subsidiary holds promise for Metaplanet, but the firm also anticipates some limitations on its FY2023 financials.
This announcement followed Metaplanet Inc’s disclosure that its Board has signed agreements for a 1 billion yen ($6.26 million) Bitcoin purchase. The capital for this purchase will be raised through an upcoming round of bond issuance.
Currently, the company holds approximately 1.45 billion yen worth of Bitcoin. Although this figure pales in comparison to MicroStrategy Inc’s Bitcoin holdings, it signifies a significant step towards cryptocurrency integration.
Reasons for Crypto Adoption by Traditional Firms
Several factors are driving the increasing interest in Bitcoin adoption among traditional institutions. Unlike fiat currencies, which are susceptible to inflation due to central bank policies, Bitcoin has a finite supply capped at 21 million coins. This scarcity makes it an attractive potential hedge against inflation, similar to gold.
In the face of economic uncertainties, institutions are continuously seeking assets that can retain value over time. Bitcoin’s limited supply provides a compelling proposition in this regard.
Additionally, traditional institutions are exploring ways to diversify their portfolios and reduce risk. With the introduction of spot Bitcoin ETF, more institutions now perceive Bitcoin as an alternative asset class with the potential for high returns.