Bitcoin News Today: Bakkt Acquires 30% Stake in MarushoHotta to Expand Bitcoin Treasury Network in Japan

Bakkt Holdings Inc. (NYSE: BKKT) has made a strategic push into the Japanese market by acquiring approximately 30% of Tokyo-listed MarushoHotta Co., Ltd. (TSE: 8105), positioning itself as the company’s largest shareholder [1]. The transaction is part of Bakkt’s broader initiative to expand its global bitcoin treasury network, with Japan identified as a key market for future growth. Under the agreement, Phillip Lord, president of Bakkt International, will serve as the chief executive officer of MarushoHotta, signaling a direct leadership role for Bakkt in shaping the company’s strategic direction [1].

As part of the deal, Bakkt has acquired the domain name www.bitcoin.jp, which is expected to be rebranded under MarushoHotta pending shareholder approval [1]. The move highlights Bakkt’s intention to reorient MarushoHotta’s corporate identity around bitcoin and digital assets. This shift aligns with the company’s efforts to build a global infrastructure for bitcoin treasury management, leveraging local market expertise in key financial hubs.

MarushoHotta, historically a provider of traditional financial services including securities trading and investment consulting, is now set to integrate bitcoin into its treasury holdings [1]. The collaboration could open new avenues for institutional and retail investors in Japan, a country known for its mature financial system and early adoption of cryptocurrency. Bakkt’s co-CEO, Akshay Naheta, emphasized that Japan’s regulatory environment provides a strong foundation for such an initiative [1].

The timing of the deal is notable, as Bakkt announced a $75 million public offering just two weeks prior to fund bitcoin purchases and further digital asset operations [1]. The Japan deal represents a significant component of the company’s international expansion strategy, aiming to establish a network of bitcoin treasury companies across major financial centers.

From a structural perspective, Bakkt’s 30% stake provides strategic influence without requiring full control, allowing MarushoHotta to retain operational autonomy while benefiting from Bakkt’s digital infrastructure expertise [1]. This approach may help navigate regulatory and cultural differences more effectively, enabling a smoother transition into the digital asset space. The acquisition of the domain further supports this integration, reinforcing the company’s digital identity and positioning for a broader customer base.

The partnership reflects a growing trend of cross-border collaboration in the fintech sector, where global players seek to combine their strengths in different markets. In Japan, where regulatory clarity is improving and institutional interest in digital assets is rising, Bakkt’s move positions the company to benefit from a favorable market environment [1]. The transaction also underscores the strategic value of Japan as a testbed for digital asset integration into traditional financial models.

Bakkt’s approach to Japan is consistent with its long-term vision of bridging traditional and digital finance through a regulated framework. The MarushoHotta deal could serve as a blueprint for similar partnerships in other markets where regulatory conditions are evolving [1].

Source:

[1] Bakkt Targets Japan With Marusho Hotta Deal and Domain Acquisition, Bitcoin.com,

https://news.bitcoin.com/bakkt-targets-japan-with-marusho-hotta-deal-and-domain-acquisition/