Metaplanet launches BitBonds with ¥200M private sale 
Metaplanet launched a continuous bond issuance program called BitBonds on Aug. 13 and completed its first four private placements, raising about 200 million yen, or roughly $1.3 million. The bonds were distributed through wholly owned Metaplanet Securities under Japan’s small number private placement framework. Solicitation began in late July and has now closed. Future series will be priced separately according to funding needs, market conditions and investor demand.
Metaplanet said BitBonds will sit alongside common shares, equity linked instruments and preferred shares as a recurring funding channel. The program lets the company issue senior debt as needed rather than depend on a single large bond transaction. Metaplanet “intends” to prepare for public bond offerings if issuance expands, but no such offering has been approved. The inaugural securities differ from earlier descriptions of potential Bitcoin backed bonds. Metaplanet’s filing states that these BitBonds are unsecured, unguaranteed and unrated. No security interest has been granted over Bitcoin or other group assets, and principal is not protected. Investors instead rely on Metaplanet’s overall ability to repay.
Bitcoin nevertheless remains relevant to the credit risk because it is Metaplanet’s principal asset. The company warned that its financial condition and ability to meet principal and interest obligations could be affected by Bitcoin price movements. The bonds also carry transfer restrictions, while liquidity before maturity is not guaranteed.
