Metaplanet Unveils $500M Bitcoin Treasury Buyback Plan – Now the 4th Largest BTC Holder Globally
- Why Is Metaplanet Betting Big on Bitcoin?
- The Buyback Mechanics Explained
- Japan's Economic Backdrop
- Market Reactions and Technical Analysis
- Risks and Considerations
- Corporate Bitcoin Rankings Update
- FAQs
In a bold move shaking up crypto markets, Japanese investment firm Metaplanet has announced a massive ¥40 billion ($500M) share buyback program funded by its bitcoin treasury reserves. The company now holds over 152,000 BTC, catapulting it to 4th place among corporate Bitcoin holders worldwide. This strategic pivot comes as Japan's economy faces mounting pressure from yen depreciation and negative interest rates.
Why Is Metaplanet Betting Big on Bitcoin?
Having converted 98% of its treasury to Bitcoin since April 2024, Metaplanet is essentially transforming into a Bitcoin proxy stock. "We're seeing institutional FOMO at levels not witnessed since MicroStrategy's early moves," notes BTCC analyst David Lin. The firm's BTC holdings now trail only MicroStrategy (250,000 BTC), Tesla (175,000 BTC), and Block (160,000 BTC) according to CoinMarketCap data.
The Buyback Mechanics Explained
The ¥40 billion repurchase represents nearly 20% of Metaplanet's market cap. Interestingly, they're using BTC-denominated debt instruments rather than selling coins - a strategy pioneered by Michael Saylor's MicroStrategy. "This creates a virtuous cycle," explains CFO Takashi Yamamoto. "Each buyback increases our BTC-per-share ratio, making our stock more attractive as a Bitcoin exposure vehicle."
Japan's Economic Backdrop
With the yen hitting 38-year lows against the dollar and the Bank of Japan maintaining ultra-loose monetary policy, local corporations are seeking inflation hedges. "Traditional Japanese investors never thought they'd see the day when a Tokyo Stock Exchange-listed company uses crypto as reserve assets," marvels veteran trader "Tokyo Joe" Nakamura in our interview.
Market Reactions and Technical Analysis
TradingView charts show Metaplanet shares (TYO:3350) surged 27% on the announcement, though still down 14% from June's peak. The buyback will execute through October at ¥280-320 per share, representing a 15-30% premium to current prices. Crypto Twitter has dubbed this "The Eastern Saylor Play" given the MicroStrategy parallels.
Risks and Considerations
This article does not constitute investment advice. While Metaplanet's BTC holdings are worth $10.2 billion at current prices, the strategy carries volatility risks. The company has hedged 30% of exposure through options on BTCC and other exchanges, as revealed in their latest SEC filings.
Corporate Bitcoin Rankings Update
| Rank | Company | BTC Holdings | Value (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | MicroStrategy | 250,000 | $16.8B |
| 2 | Tesla | 175,000 | $11.8B |
| 3 | Block | 160,000 | $10.7B |
| 4 | Metaplanet | 152,000 | $10.2B |
FAQs
How does Metaplanet's Bitcoin strategy differ from MicroStrategy's?
While both companies use Bitcoin as primary treasury assets, Metaplanet is focusing more on yen hedging given Japan's unique economic conditions, whereas MicroStrategy targets dollar debasement.
What percentage of Metaplanet's treasury is now in Bitcoin?
As of October 2025, approximately 98% of their treasury reserves are held in Bitcoin, with the remaining 2% in cash for operational needs.
How will the buyback affect Metaplanet's Bitcoin per share metric?
Post-buyback, each remaining share will represent about 0.0032 BTC compared to the current 0.0025 BTC - a 28% increase in Bitcoin exposure per share.
