Japanese investment firm Metaplanet has announced plans to issue 5 billion yen, equivalent to approximately $31.9 million, in zero-interest bonds to fund additional Bitcoin purchases, mirroring strategies employed by American firm MicroStrategy.

As of December 18, 2024, Metaplanet has significantly increased its Bitcoin holdings to about 1,142.287 BTC, valued at around $110.3 million.

Following the bond announcement, Metaplanet's stock price surged to a record high of ¥4,270, with trading volume reaching 17.8 million shares and a market capitalization exceeding $1 billion.

However, despite this aggressive Bitcoin acquisition strategy, the company's share price fell nearly 3% on December 20, 2024, and has dropped over 12% in the past week.

Metaplanet's investment strategy is guided by its corporate manifesto, which highlights Bitcoin's scarcity and advocates for apolitical monetary policies.

Bitcoin recently reached an all-time high of $108,135 on December 17, 2024, but has since declined to $96,846 due to market volatility and comments from Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell regarding interest rates.

CEO Simon Gerovich emphasized that the funds raised will expedite planned Bitcoin acquisitions for 2025 into the current year.

Overall, Metaplanet's actions reflect a significant shift in the financial landscape, positioning the firm as a key player in the growing institutional adoption of digital assets.

The company's pivot towards Bitcoin is expected to lead it towards its first operating profit in seven years, showcasing the potential financial advantages of its investment approach.

By issuing these zero-interest bonds, Metaplanet aims to alleviate short-term financial pressures while investing in digital assets, creating an attractive opportunity for investors.

Additionally, Metaplanet has launched a Bitcoin Rewards Program, offering a prize pool of ¥30 million ($199,500) to reward shareholders with at least 100 shares through a lottery system.

Metaplanet's shares began trading on the U.S. OTCQX market on December 19, 2024, but closed down nearly 10% on their first day.