Bakkt Holdings Inc. is set to acquire a 30% stake in Japan’s publicly listed Marusho Hotta Co., Ltd., signaling a significant shift in the company’s strategic direction toward becoming a Bitcoin-backed treasury firm [1]. The move aligns with Bakkt’s broader ambitions to expand its presence in the global digital asset ecosystem and establish a stronger foothold in the Asian market [2]. Once the deal is finalized, the textile company is expected to rebrand as “bitcoin.jp,” indicating a complete pivot from its traditional manufacturing roots to a corporate structure focused on digital assets [1].
This acquisition is part of Bakkt’s ongoing transformation, which includes a recent $75 million public offering to fund digital asset purchases and expand its crypto treasury operations [2]. The company also announced plans to raise up to $1 billion to further support its Bitcoin-centric strategy [2]. The shift comes amid growing institutional interest in Bitcoin, with hundreds of public and private firms now allocating portions of their treasuries to digital assets [1].
Bakkt’s entry into Japan is strategic, given the country’s well-regulated crypto environment and its reputation as a hub for institutional-grade digital asset adoption [2]. The rebranding of Marusho Hotta underscores the firm’s intent to integrate Bitcoin into both its operational and financial planning [2]. However, the rebrand and corporate strategy shift require shareholder approval, and details on execution will be disclosed as the transaction progresses [2].
The move also highlights the evolving corporate landscape where traditional businesses are increasingly adopting digital assets as part of their treasury strategies [6]. With this acquisition, Bakkt aims to strengthen its role in the next phase of institutional Bitcoin adoption and reinforce its position as a global player in the crypto infrastructure space [4].
Bakkt has faced recent turbulence, including the loss of two major clients—Webull and Bank of America—whose contracts expired in late 2025 and early 2026, respectively [1]. These developments led to a 27% drop in Bakkt’s share price following the announcement of non-renewals, prompting a class-action lawsuit from investors who allege the firm failed to disclose the fragility of its revenue model [1]. Despite these challenges, Bakkt has continued to pursue strategic initiatives, including a domain acquisition for bitcoin.com, further emphasizing its commitment to a Bitcoin-focused business model [5].
The acquisition of Marusho Hotta and the subsequent rebranding reflect Bakkt’s determination to reshape its identity in the digital asset space. As the company continues to navigate regulatory, financial, and market challenges, its strategic moves in Japan and beyond will be closely watched by investors and industry observers alike [4].
Source:
[1] Bakkt Buys Stake in Japan’s Marusho Hotta… (https://cointelegraph.com/news/bakkt-acquires-marusho-hotta-rebrand-bitcoin-jp)
[2] Bakkt to buy 30% of Japan’s Marusho Hotta, rename it ‘… (https://www.theblock.co/post/365807/bakkt-japans-marusho-hotta-bitcoin-treasury)
[3] Bitcoin Treasury News: Bakkt and BitBridge Move Ahead… (https://www.coindesk.com/business/2025/08/06/bakkt-expands-global-bitcoin-play-with-30-stake-in-japan-s-marusho-hotta)
[4] Bakkt Expands Global Bitcoin Play With 30% Stake in Japan’s… (https://sg.finance.yahoo.com/news/bakkt-expands-global-bitcoin-play-153218311.html)
[5] Bakkt Targets Japan With Marusho Hotta Deal and Domain… (https://news.bitcoin.com/bakkt-targets-japan-with-marusho-hotta-deal-and-domain-acquisition/)
[6] Bakkt to become largest shareholder in Japan’s… (https://www.investing.com/news/company-news/bakkt-to-become-largest-shareholder-in-japans-marushohotta-93CH-4173179)
