regardless of what these weird crypto anarchists think, the truth is… US dollar is the bedrock of all value. My current thought is, still… We will always peg the price of bitcoin to the US dollar to know what it’s real worth is.
certainly there will be a point in which… The metric flips. Maybe not in my lifetime
so for example, being here in Cambodia… The US dollar is like gold. And what’s also interesting is the Chinese, willingly use the US dollar as a score of value, also leveraging USDT tether
Tokyo, as Japan’s economic and technological heart, stands at a crossroads in the digital finance era. Embracing Bitcoin is not just about adopting a new asset – it could offer Tokyo a hedge against economic challenges, a boost in technological innovation, social empowerment, and a strategic edge on the global stage. This report examines why Tokyo needs Bitcoin from four key perspectives: economic benefits, technological leadership, social impact, and regulatory/geopolitical positioning.
Economic Benefits: Hedging and Diversifying Tokyo’s Economy
Tokyo’s economy, like the rest of Japan, faces unique financial challenges – from bouts of inflation to a historically low interest rate environment. Bitcoin offers an alternative hedge and diversification tool for both investors and institutions in Tokyo. Notably, Japan’s inflation hit ~4.0% in early 2025 (well above the Bank of Japan’s 2% target), while the yen weakened to multi-decade lows against the US dollar . In this climate, holding cash in yen is “like holding an ice cube – it slowly melts,” as one CEO put it, whereas holding Bitcoin provides upside if the yen depreciates or inflation accelerates . In fact, Japanese institutions increasingly view Bitcoin as a strategic hedge: when the yen falls, Bitcoin’s price in yen tends to rise, offsetting losses on yen-denominated assets . A recent market analysis noted that a spike in inflation (to 4.0%) could further weaken the yen, “making cryptocurrencies an attractive hedge for investors” amidst depreciation fears .
Beyond guarding against inflation, Bitcoin also diversifies corporate and investor portfolios. It behaves as a “wild card” asset not correlated with stocks or bonds, so even a small allocation can improve risk-adjusted returns . With Japanese government bonds yielding barely ~1.5% , companies and savers are eager for new sources of growth. Nearly half (48%) of financial organizations globally now say crypto helps diversify portfolios , a sentiment that is gaining traction in Tokyo’s financial circles. Moreover, Bitcoin’s fixed supply and decentralized nature add an element of long-term value preservation that appeals to those worried about currency debasement . Tokyo’s businesses see that Bitcoin’s scarcity can preserve value where fiat policies might falter .
This theory is being put into practice by forward-thinking companies in Tokyo’s markets. Several Tokyo-listed firms have begun adding Bitcoin to their treasuries as a reserve asset – not for speculation, but for strategic financial management. They cite inflation hedging, currency risk mitigation, and innovation signaling as key motives . Japan’s clear regulatory framework (established by reforms in 2017 and beyond) has reduced uncertainty for such corporate moves, enabling even conservative firms to consider Bitcoin as a legitimate treasury asset . The table below highlights examples of Bitcoin adoption by Japanese companies:
Company (Sector)
Bitcoin Initiative
Stated Purpose
Quantum Solutions (AI)
Launching a 3,000 BTC corporate reserve (approx. $350M). CEO to pursue accumulation in stages.
Hedge against inflation and yen devaluation; diversify treasury. The firm views Bitcoin as a “long-term, strategic reserve” to preserve value .
Kitabo (Textiles)
Purchasing ¥800 million (∼$5.6M) of Bitcoin for company reserves .
Diversify holdings and modernize assets. An 80-year-old Tokyo company turning to Bitcoin to protect and grow its reserves, reflecting mainstream adoption of digital assets .
Remixpoint (Energy)
Raised ~$215M to expand its Bitcoin treasury; new CEO paid in Bitcoin as part of policy .
Align with shareholders & drive innovation. Paying the CEO in BTC signifies commitment to crypto and ensures leadership is “in the same boat” as investors . Bitcoin holdings aim to hedge energy revenues and signal tech-forward strategy.
Nexon (Gaming)
Acquired 1,717 BTC (~$100M) for its treasury (2021) – the largest crypto purchase by a Tokyo Stock Exchange-listed firm.
Long-term store of value & tech investment. Nexon’s management cited confidence in Bitcoin’s long-term stability and a desire to get ahead in digital asset investment while cash returns are low.
Tokyo’s financial community is taking note of these moves. Holding Bitcoin in corporate treasury can enhance shareholder value through potential capital appreciation, attract tech-savvy investors, and expand a company’s net asset value if Bitcoin’s price rises . It also signals to markets that a company is forward-looking and innovative, qualities that can improve market perception . For the broader Tokyo economy, this trend means a new wave of financial innovation: crypto custody services, Bitcoin trading desks, and fintech startups are emerging to support institutional crypto adoption. All of this diversifies Tokyo’s economic landscape, which has long been dominated by traditional banking and industrial finance. In summary, Bitcoin provides Tokyo with an economic toolkit to hedge macroeconomic risks, stimulate financial innovation, and diversify growth – important ingredients for a resilient 21st-century economy.
Technological Leadership: Enhancing Tokyo’s Global Tech Hub Status
Tokyo is a world-renowned technology hub, and integrating Bitcoin and its underlying blockchain technology could help the city maintain, if not elevate, its status as a global innovator. Japan has learned from past tech stagnation and is now embracing blockchain as a new frontier. After missing out on producing the big Web2 platforms (no Japanese Google or Amazon emerged in the 2000s), Japan’s leaders resolved not to fall behind in the next wave of tech. This has led to a progressive national stance on Web3 (the internet of blockchain and crypto): the government sees Web3 and blockchain as pivotal for the country’s digital future . In fact, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida’s administration explicitly championed Web3 as “a pillar for economic growth” and even dubbed it a “new form of capitalism,” signaling that nurturing crypto technology is central to Japan’s vision for prosperity . Regulators who once tightened the reins after incidents like Mt. Gox and Coincheck have since pivoted – they’ve put in place robust safeguards, and Tokyo now actively welcomes crypto innovation under prudent oversight .
At the city level, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government (TMG) has also been proactive. Tokyo aims to become a global financial city by pushing forward blockchain integration in both finance and non-financial sectors . As early as 2017, TMG launched initiatives like the Blockchain Business Camp Tokyo to attract blockchain startups from around the world to set up shop in Tokyo . The program offered foreign startups mentoring, matchmaking with big Japanese firms (from banks to automakers), and fast-track support for establishing in Tokyo . The goal was clear: use blockchain to “re-energize the city’s economy” and drive innovation for residents’ convenience . These efforts reflect Tokyo’s understanding that embracing technologies like Bitcoin and blockchain can spur a new era of tech leadership, much as the city did in past decades with consumer electronics and robotics.
Bitcoin’s blockchain also unlocks new technological use cases that align with Tokyo’s innovation culture. For example, blockchain projects in Tokyo are exploring asset tokenization and fintech integration, areas that complement Japan’s strong financial infrastructure . A recent high-profile project involves tokenizing Tokyo real estate assets on a blockchain – a partnership tokenized ¥10 billion of property (around $75 million) to increase liquidity and open real estate investment to a broader audience . Such initiatives show how integrating Bitcoin’s underlying tech can modernize traditional industries (like real estate, banking, supply chains) and keep Tokyo on the cutting edge. Major Japanese banks in Tokyo are also experimenting with crypto and blockchain: nearly all of Japan’s largest banks have launched projects (for instance, Nomura and Sony Bank issuing yen-pegged stablecoins on blockchain in 2023-24) .
Importantly, Tokyo’s embrace of Bitcoin and blockchain is attracting global talent and investment in tech. Entrepreneurs and engineers see Japan as increasingly friendly to crypto business, especially with recent regulatory easing. In 2023, Japan removed onerous tax rules (like taxing unrealized crypto gains) and moved to cut corporate crypto taxes to a flat 20%, making it far more attractive for startups to remain in Tokyo rather than relocate to Singapore . The government also enabled new funding avenues, such as allowing venture funds to hold digital assets from startups, which encourages blockchain startups to raise capital domestically . These moves have begun to bear fruit: Japan now hosts a thriving Web3 ecosystem of over 160 blockchain projects across the country, many headquartered in Tokyo . By fostering a vibrant crypto-tech scene, Tokyo not only bolsters its own tech industry but also contributes to setting standards in blockchain applications (from fintech to gaming to digital identity). In short, integrating Bitcoin and blockchain helps Tokyo secure its place among global tech capitals by demonstrating leadership in the next generation of innovation.
Social Impact: Financial Inclusion and Empowerment in Tokyo
Embracing Bitcoin could also yield significant social benefits for Tokyo’s populace, promoting greater financial inclusion, youth empowerment, and new decentralized opportunities. Japan is a developed economy with high banking penetration, but there are still gaps that Bitcoin can fill in empowering individuals financially. For instance, traditional investment avenues in Japan have long been conservative (low-interest savings, domestic stocks), which often yield meager returns for average people – especially in an era of near-zero interest rates. Bitcoin provides an alternative path for individuals (including those with modest means) to save and invest outside the conventional system. Notably, the younger generation in Japan has shown a strong inclination toward crypto as a means of financial participation. A 2023 survey revealed about 3.8 million Japanese adults (5% of those aged 18–60) are actively investing in cryptocurrencies, with young investors leading the charge . Nearly 40% of young Japanese crypto investors hold over ¥10,000 in crypto (signaling substantial engagement), and about 49% trade crypto multiple times per week, indicating a high level of activity and interest among youth . This enthusiasm suggests that Bitcoin is energizing Japan’s youth, giving them a new avenue to build wealth and technical savvy in a way traditional assets did not.
The empowerment of young people through Bitcoin can have far-reaching effects on Tokyo’s society. Crypto’s culture of decentralization and innovation rewards initiative and skills over seniority, which resonates with younger Japanese who often feel constrained by traditional corporate hierarchies. We are seeing more young Tokyoites become blockchain developers, crypto entrepreneurs, and NFT artists, finding success on global platforms without needing decades of tenure or large institutional backing. In Tokyo’s startup scene, for example, crypto and Web3 startups often have youthful founders who leverage Bitcoin and blockchain to create new business models. This empowerment is also narrowing the gender gap: women now represent about 29% of young crypto investors in Japan , a figure that is significant in a traditionally male-dominated finance sector. By making finance more accessible and engaging, Bitcoin can pull in demographics that were less involved in traditional finance – not only youth and women, but also tech-savvy individuals and international residents of Tokyo who can use crypto for remittances or payments without local banking frictions.
Financial inclusion is another promising social aspect. While Japan’s unbanked rate is low, Bitcoin lowers barriers for anyone to participate in the economy on their own terms. With just a smartphone, a person in Tokyo can receive, save, or send Bitcoin without needing approval from a bank – useful for, say, freelancers or small vendors looking to access a wider customer base. In fact, Japan has seen a rising acceptance of crypto in everyday commerce: by 2025, over 31,000 retailers in Japan accept cryptocurrency payments – including major convenience store chains and electronics retailers . Tokyo, being the largest urban center, has been at the forefront of this trend with many shops and even e-commerce services enabling Bitcoin payments. This retail acceptance means that tech-savvy youth or marginalized groups can opt to use crypto for transactions, potentially reducing reliance on cash and enabling peer-to-peer commerce. Additionally, Bitcoin-based services (like Lightning Network payments or crypto remittances) can cut transaction costs and facilitate inclusion for foreigners in Tokyo sending money abroad or for underbanked communities engaging in digital transactions.
Crucially, the Japanese leadership explicitly links crypto adoption to social outcomes. Prime Minister Kishida has argued that Web3 and blockchain are foundational for solving social issues and building a “decentralized and inclusive” economy . This vision, sometimes termed “Society 5.0,” imagines a society where technology empowers individuals in daily life. For Tokyo’s citizens, Bitcoin could mean more personal control over finances, opportunities to join the global digital economy from home, and a culture of innovation that inspires the next generation. As one crypto industry CEO observed, Japan is “setting the stage for a decentralized and inclusive financial future” by fostering a crypto-friendly environment . In sum, Bitcoin’s rise in Tokyo is not just an economic or tech story – it is also a social story about inclusion and empowerment. By embracing Bitcoin, Tokyo can give its people (especially the youth) a stake in the future economy, greater financial freedom, and the tools to innovate from the ground up.
Regulatory and Geopolitical Positioning: Tokyo on the Global Stage
Finally, Tokyo’s adoption of Bitcoin has significant regulatory and geopolitical implications. Japan was one of the earliest major economies to establish a clear legal status for cryptocurrencies, which has positioned Tokyo as a jurisdiction with a mature and stable crypto regulatory environment. As early as 2017, Japan formally recognized Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies as legal payment methods, through amendments to the Payment Services Act . This pioneering move sparked an explosion in crypto adoption at the time and forced regulators to balance innovation with protection. Since then, Japan’s Financial Services Agency (FSA), based in Tokyo, has built one of the world’s most comprehensive crypto regulatory frameworks – often cited as a benchmark for other countries . All crypto exchanges in Japan must register with the FSA, implement strict AML/KYC protocols, segregate client funds, and meet capital requirements . These rules have made the market safer (Japanese users were notably protected during the 2022 FTX collapse due to local safeguards ), and they lend legitimacy and trust to Tokyo’s crypto industry globally. While some global crypto firms found compliance challenging and temporarily exited (e.g. Kraken, Coinbase withdrew from Japan in 2023 amid bear-market conditions ), the overall stance is that Tokyo is open for crypto business – if you play by the rules .
From a geopolitical perspective, Tokyo’s embrace of Bitcoin sets it apart as a forward-thinking finance hub in contrast to more cautious or hostile regimes. At a time when some major economies send unclear or negative signals to crypto innovators (e.g. regulatory crackdowns in the U.S. and bans in China), Japan is signaling opportunity. As a CoinDesk analysis noted, “Tokyo and Hong Kong are very publicly welcoming crypto at a time when the United States is far less friendly,” and Japan is “actively trying to position itself as a Web3 powerhouse” . This stance could attract international companies to set up Asian operations in Tokyo, knowing that Japan offers regulatory clarity and a large market. Indeed, Japanese lawmakers and bureaucrats have been working on further crypto-friendly measures: cutting the crypto capital gains tax from a high of 55% down to 20% (parity with stocks) by 2026 , easing token listing processes, and legally recognizing new blockchain entities like DAOs . Each of these moves strengthens Tokyo’s hand in competing with other crypto hubs like Singapore, London, or Dubai. By creating a balanced regulatory environment – protective yet innovation-friendly – Tokyo can become a magnet for global crypto talent and investment, much as it did in traditional finance in earlier decades.
Japan’s geopolitical strategy also involves leveraging its credibility to shape global digital asset standards. As the only G7 nation with an early comprehensive crypto regime, Japan (and by extension Tokyo’s regulators) often shares its experience in international forums. For example, Japan has led on issues like exchange security and stablecoin regulation. In 2023, Japan implemented a landmark law allowing yen-backed stablecoins issued by licensed firms, with strict investor protections (100% reserve backing and redemption rights) . This came at a time when many countries were still debating how to handle stablecoins. Japan even approved USD Coin (USDC) as the first foreign stablecoin for use domestically in 2025 , showcasing a model of embracing dollar-linked crypto within a regulatory framework. Moves like this position Tokyo as a thought leader in bridging traditional finance with crypto. They also ensure Japan isn’t overly reliant on other nations’ digital currency initiatives – a subtle strategic hedge in a world where, for instance, China’s digital yuan and U.S. crypto policies could influence global finance.
Geopolitically, by aligning with Bitcoin and blockchain innovation, Tokyo also reinforces its image as a modern, democratic financial center in the Indo-Pacific region. It offers a stark alternative to the authoritarian approach of banning crypto, showing that a major economy can integrate Bitcoin in a regulated manner without stifling innovation. This could increase Japan’s soft power: nations in Asia looking to develop digital economies may follow Tokyo’s example or seek partnership. Domestically, Kishida’s government has even tied Web3 development to national growth strategy and potentially to countering demographic woes (attracting talent and keeping youth engaged) . In essence, Tokyo’s Bitcoin-friendly direction is part of a broader vision to revitalize Japan’s economy and global standing.
Tokyo’s skyline, including the iconic Tokyo Tower. The city is positioning itself as a global center for digital finance by embracing Bitcoin and blockchain innovation.
In conclusion, Tokyo “needs” Bitcoin in the same way it needed past innovations – as a catalyst for economic resilience, technological advancement, social dynamism, and strategic leadership. Bitcoin’s role as an inflation hedge and growth diversifier can fortify Tokyo’s economy against macroeconomic storms. Its underlying technology cements Tokyo’s status as a hub of cutting-edge innovation. The inclusive, empowering nature of decentralized finance can invigorate Tokyo’s society and youth. And by championing smart regulation, Tokyo secures a seat at the table of global financial rule-making, ensuring it helps shape the future of digital finance. In embracing Bitcoin, Tokyo is not only adopting a new form of money – it is asserting its identity as a future-ready city poised to lead in the digital age.
Sources
Boosty Labs (2025). Institutional Crypto Adoption in Japan, Q1 2025 – Analysis of Japan’s macroeconomic conditions (inflation ~4%, weak yen) and why institutions add Bitcoin as hedge , plus details on portfolio diversification benefits and regulatory support (tax cuts, custody rules) .
AInvest News (Jul 24, 2025). Quantum Solutions Boosts Bitcoin Holdings to 3000 Units as Japan Firms Hedge Inflation – Reports that Tokyo-listed firms (Quantum Solutions, Metaplanet, Remixpoint) are acquiring Bitcoin for inflation hedging and treasury diversification , highlighting Japan’s favorable regulatory environment for corporate crypto adoption .
Cointelegraph (Jul 2025). Bitcoin treasury fever grows in Japan as AI company targets 3,000 BTC – Describes Quantum Solutions’ plan for a 3,000 BTC reserve and notes other Japanese firms (Kitabo, Remixpoint) increasing Bitcoin reserves, including a CEO taking salary in BTC to align with shareholders .
CoinDesk (Jun 27, 2023). Opinion: Don’t Overlook Tokyo and Hong Kong as Crypto Hot Spots – Explains that Japan is again positioning itself as a Web3 powerhouse, with politicians in Tokyo pushing clear “rules of the road” for crypto . Notes that Tokyo and Hong Kong’s welcoming stance is attracting global crypto business, in contrast to the U.S. and China .
Cointelegraph (Sep 2023, updated Jul 2025). Overview of Cryptocurrency Regulations in Japan – Confirms Japan legally recognized cryptocurrencies as payment in 2017 and details the robust regulatory framework (FSA licensing, AML/KYC, asset segregation) that Tokyo has implemented . Also notes ongoing reforms like reclassifying certain tokens as securities and plans for a 20% flat crypto tax in 2026 .
Morrison & Foerster Client Alert (Mar 23, 2023). Japanese Government and Industry Members Signal Commitment to Growth of Web3 – Discusses Japan’s national strategy to foster an internationally competitive Web3 environment . Highlights Kishida’s view of Web3 as part of economic expansion and calls for tax code revisions (ending the onerous 55% crypto tax in favor of 20%) to stop talent outflow .
KuCoin Cryptoverse Report – Japan Edition (Jul 2023). (Via BusinessWire/FintechFutures) – Survey data on Japanese crypto investors: ~3.8 million active crypto users (5% of adults) , with 39% of young investors holding >¥10k in crypto and 29% of those young investors being women . Praises Japan’s crypto-tax reforms and its positioning as a leader in the digital asset landscape .
CoinLaw (2025). Cryptocurrency Adoption by Country Statistics 2025 – Aggregated stats indicating Japan has over 31,000 retail outlets accepting crypto payments (including major convenience stores) , reflecting deep integration of crypto in daily commerce in Tokyo and nationwide. Also notes Japan enforces strict custody rules (100% asset segregation, audits) for exchanges , underscoring its strong regulatory oversight.
Coingeek (Sept 4, 2024). Japan PM hails blockchain as foundation of ‘New Capitalism’ – Covers PM Kishida’s speech at WebX Tokyo 2024: he lauded Web3/Blockchain as fundamental to solving social issues and “reigniting economic growth,” positioning it as a pillar of his New Capitalism agenda . Mentions concrete measures like tax and legal reforms to facilitate Web3 startups, and how major banks (Nomura, Sony Bank, etc.) launched blockchain-based stablecoin projects, confirming Japan’s commitment to digital finance innovation .
Blockchain.News (Feb 20, 2025). Japan’s Inflation Rate Hits 4.0%, Affecting Cryptocurrencies – A news flash analysis linking rising inflation to crypto: notes that 4.0% CPI could weaken the yen and thus make cryptocurrencies an attractive hedge for investors concerned about currency depreciation . This real-time insight shows market expectations that Japanese investors might turn to Bitcoin as inflation rises.
So the reason why I think MSTR is so obvious is that consider, at this point is like essentially like a new avalanche on the planet. It has the virtuous flywheel effect: because the mass is so massive now, ain’t no stopping it. Soon, 700,000 bitcoin, 800,000 bitcoin, eventually 1 million bitcoins and beyond. 
Also that means then, any derivatives built off of MSTR like MSTU MSTX, are also virtuous. They will continue to snowball forever, in a positive upwards trajectory.
So this is kind of a funny thought… Would you or would you want to, or do you desire to become ruler of all men?
Nietzsche quotes Plato:
Once, all men desire to become ruler of all men, that ethos must be reinstated.
So then… Maybe I am the immoral one, for myself, yeah sure why not… Actually kind of like the idea of becoming the ruler and leader of all men on the planet.
I think also spending time here, when you thought I’m starting to have is actually… Perhaps I am the tyrant. Perhaps I am the immoral one, perhaps, I am the one that makes all the rules?
Respect and hierarchy
Maybe I am the one with the emperor syndrome, I see myself as the emperor, like in traditional ancient Korean fashion. And as a consequence, whenever anyone advises me, speaks up against me, it invokes extreme anger.
For example, I’m almost starting to wonder, moving forward, I’m gonna start making a big deal out of everything, and even when I suspect the smallest sense of disrespect or badness, Time for me to get mad.
I think the issue here is that everyone is I think… Secretly, out bull me.
The notion of a bully, being a bully, it just arises from the stem word bowl, and it is funny because in the world of finance, being a bull is virtuous. But to bully somebody else, that is like you’re a mega bull, and somebody else is smaller than weaker than you, you use your power against them in a bad way, is seen as bad.
The funny thing is people often say that bullies have low self-esteem or whatever, I actually don’t think that is the case. Sometimes people like to assert their dominance for fun, for entertainment.
Zeus syndrome
If I could give myself a new name, it would definitely be like Zeus or Achilles. Why? My morality is like ancient Greek, I see myself as Zeus or Achilles, a complex, multifaceted character.
As a consequence, all the traditional rules of morality do not work for me. Not Buddhism not Christianity, none of these work for me.
Ironically enough and funny enough, maybe actually the new morality which is becoming much more interesting to me is actually mainland Chinese. Why? They really just do not give a F.
Also what is very refreshing about Chinese men: they are unapologetically masculine, and women are also just very feminine. None of the silly gender bending nonsense we have in the states.
In fact, in some ways I think about it, the Chinese are just like much more honest. And what is also interesting is it seems like out of all the cultures, they have the most conscience. What that means is like they never feel bad about anything because the truth is, nothing is bad or good.
What now
Being at the crossroads, Cambodia… To me is the Apex pivot point. Why? 
First, it is like the ultimate confluence of all the different countries in Asia, and also, the best pivot point or connection point between east and west. To me almost like being in Cambodia especially being in Phnom Penh is like the new Geneva Switzerland. It’s like kind of the most neutral place to be because Cambodia is intelligent; let us consider that there is massive support for the Chinese government, yet the economy is dollarized, everyone speaks English, and everyone uses telegram.
Much of the foreign investment is also from China Japan, a tiny bit from Korea.
Also considering that American English is supreme, being American in Cambodia is extremely advantageous . No no no, nobody cares about the French, the Australians, certainly not the Canadiens. Not even Singapore.
It still seems that the big bully on the planet is America. The big bull. Certainly I see America as number one, for at least the next 30 years.
China versus America
It seems that China needs more than America needs China. Certainly we Americans love our iPhones made in China, but when it comes down to it, we Americans don’t really need an iPhone, great to have, but you will not die without an iPhone.