Fidelity Shakes Up Markets as It Dominates Metaplanet Stake in Bold Bitcoin Bet

Wall Street's quiet giant just made a deafening move—Fidelity now holds the keys to Metaplanet's future, doubling down on Bitcoin's volatile promise.

Why it matters: When traditional finance heavyweights go all-in on crypto plays, even the skeptics pay attention. This isn't your grandma's index fund strategy anymore.

The subtext: While hedge funds chase AI hype, Fidelity's playing 4D chess—accumulating Bitcoin exposure through backdoor equity stakes. Clever? Reckless? Either way, it's working (for now).

Bonus jab: Because nothing says 'mature asset class' like institutional investors treating crypto stocks like a Vegas sportsbook.

TLDR

• Fidelity’s subsidiary NFS now holds a 12.9% stake in Metaplanet, totaling 84.4 million shares.
• The stake is valued at approximately ¥121 billion or $816 million based on current prices.
• As of March 31, NFS held only 1.91 million shares, indicating a sharp increase in position.
• Fidelity is one of the issuers of a US spot Bitcoin ETF with $25 billion in assets under management.
• Capital Group, another major US asset manager, also holds a 6.6% stake in Metaplanet.

National Financial Services LLC (NFS), a Fidelity subsidiary, has become the largest shareholder of Japan-based Metaplanet with a 12.9% stake. The holding represents 84.4 million shares valued at approximately ¥121 billion, or $816 million. This rapid increase signals expanding interest from traditional financial institutions in Bitcoin-focused corporate strategies.

According to public records, as of March 31, Fidelity’s NFS held only 1.91 million shares in Metaplanet. The sharp rise in ownership occurred over three and a half months. This movement aligns with Fidelity’s broader role in Bitcoin markets through its $25 billion FBTC spot ETF.

Metaplanet has gained attention due to its increasing bitcoin reserves, which now total 16,352 BTC, worth $1.9 billion. The firm acquired its holdings for $1.6 billion, securing over $300 million in unrealized gains. Despite short-term stock losses, the firm remains Japan’s fifth-largest public Bitcoin holder.

Capital Group Joins Fidelity in Increasing Exposure

Another major U.S. institution, Capital Group, has also taken a sizable position in Metaplanet. The firm holds 44.2 million shares, equating to 6.6% of Metaplanet’s total equity. This suggests a broader trend of traditional finance entering Bitcoin-linked corporate assets.

Capital Group oversees over $2.9 trillion in global assets, and its MOVE underscores rising institutional confidence. Alongside Fidelity’s increased position, this development shows a shift in asset allocation strategies. These firms are not only observing but actively participating in Bitcoin treasury exposure.

Fidelity’s deepening involvement may influence other traditional institutions to adjust portfolio models. With regulated channels like ETFs, firms now access digital assets through trusted frameworks. This offers both institutional and retail clients more options to engage with the digital economy.

Bitcoin Holdings Fuel Strategic Positioning

Metaplanet’s aggressive Bitcoin acquisition strategy has attracted increased trading and investor interest. The firm’s 16,352 BTC places it ahead of Tesla and ranks it fifth among public holders globally. These holdings reflect a clear shift in how companies manage reserves.

While Fidelity builds its position, Metaplanet shares have declined 24% over the past month. The stock trades NEAR ¥1,436, following an 8% daily drop. However, market activity remains high, indicating continued interest despite volatility.