In a bold move that highlights its growing global ambitions, Bakkt has announced the acquisition of a 30% stake in Japan’s Marusho Hotta, a Tokyo-listed trading company. The deal, disclosed on August 6, 2025, positions Bakkt as the largest shareholder in Marusho Hotta and signals a strategic pivot to expand its international footprint in the Bitcoin market.
Bakkt’s Strategic Leap into Japan
The acquisition isn’t just a financial maneuver. It’s a clear signal of Bakkt’s intention to deepen its involvement in the Asian crypto markets. With this move, Bakkt continues to build on its reputation as a formidable player in the cryptocurrency space. The firm, which has been on a transformative journey since pivoting from its loyalty business to focus solely on crypto, now adds a significant Japanese enterprise to its portfolio.
In an intriguing twist, Marusho Hotta will undergo a rebranding, pending shareholder approval, to become “bitcoin.jp.” This rebranding effort underscores the company’s new focus on Bitcoin-centric operations. Bakkt has also secured the domain bitcoin.jp, indicating a comprehensive strategy to integrate its brand with its new acquisition’s operations.
“Japan has always been a critical market for digital assets,” said Phillip Lord, President of Bakkt International, who is set to take over as CEO of the newly rebranded company. “This acquisition allows us to leverage our expertise while adapting to local market nuances.”
A New Chapter for Bitcoin in Japan
The Japanese market has long been a pioneer in cryptocurrency adoption, often leading the way in regulatory frameworks and technological innovation. By investing in Marusho Hotta, Bakkt isn’t just buying a stake; it’s buying into an ecosystem that’s ripe with potential. This move aligns with other significant developments in Japan, such as SBI’s filing for a Bitcoin–XRP ETF, which pushes dual crypto exposure into regulated markets.
According to industry analysts, this move could catalyze further integration of Bitcoin into Japan’s financial systems. “It’s a savvy move,” notes crypto analyst Keiko Tanaka. “Bakkt’s entry could spur more competition and innovation, potentially boosting Bitcoin’s use in everyday transactions.”
Moreover, Bakkt’s acquisition might nudge local regulators to consider updating existing policies to accommodate increased Bitcoin activity, further legitimizing the digital asset in one of the world’s most tech-savvy nations.
Ripple Effects Across the Crypto Landscape
This strategic acquisition by Bakkt isn’t happening in isolation. BitBridge Capital Strategies, another key player in the Bitcoin treasury game, announced its merger with Green Mountain Merger Inc. just a day before Bakkt’s revelation. BitBridge plans to trade under the ticker symbol BTTL on OTC markets by the end of September 2025, with aspirations to uplist to NASDAQ. This follows a broader trend of institutional adoption, as seen in BlackRock’s Bitcoin ETF developments, which are set to gain a significant lead with SEC options.
These parallel developments mark a broader trend of consolidation and expansion within the crypto sector. Companies are increasingly looking beyond their borders to tap into new markets and technologies, driven by the relentless pursuit of growth and relevance.
“The market is maturing, and firms like Bakkt and BitBridge are positioning themselves at the forefront,” says financial strategist Hiroshi Saito. “Their moves indicate a readiness to navigate the complexities of international regulations and market demands.”
Looking Ahead
As Bakkt and BitBridge make their respective forays into new territories, questions linger about the sustainability of such expansions. Will these ambitious strategies pay off, or will they face unforeseen challenges in different regulatory environments? Only time will tell.
For now, investors and crypto enthusiasts alike will be watching closely to see how these developments unfold. Will Bakkt’s venture into Japan set a precedent for other Western companies eyeing Asia? And can BitBridge’s merger propel it into the big leagues of NASDAQ?
As the cryptocurrency market continues to evolve, one thing remains certain: the landscape is shifting, and those who can adapt will lead the charge into this exciting new frontier.
Source
This article is based on: Bakkt Expands Global Bitcoin Play With 30% Stake in Japan’s Marusho Hotta
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Steve Gregory is a lawyer in the United States who specializes in licensing for cryptocurrency companies and products. Steve began his career as an attorney in 2015 but made the switch to working in cryptocurrency full time shortly after joining the original team at Gemini Trust Company, an early cryptocurrency exchange based in New York City. Steve then joined CEX.io and was able to launch their regulated US-based cryptocurrency. Steve then went on to become the CEO at currency.com when he ran for four years and was able to lead currency.com to being fully acquired in 2025.
