Tokyo-listed gaming studio Gumi has acquired 1 billion yen ($6.6 million) worth of Bitcoin (BTC) to strengthen its position in blockchain technology. The company’s board of directors approved the purchase on Feb. 10, highlighting its strategic expansion into the digital asset space.

Gumi’s translated statement confirms that the company is expanding its node management business. The company aims to become the first Japanese public company to serve as a validator in Bitcoin staking protocol Babylon.

Bitcoin Staking with Babylon
Bitcoin staking protocol Babylon enables Bitcoin holders to stake their Bitcoin while maintaining security. Babylon reported in December that more than $3.5 billion in Bitcoin had been staked on its platform.

Gumi’s bitcoin purchase is consistent with its blockchain expansion strategy, which includes acquiring and managing high-quality tokens. The company’s website says it uses blockchain technology to create new digital content and services.

Gumi Cryptos Capital’s Web3 Investments
Gumi Cryptos Capital (GCC) is a Silicon Valley-based venture capital firm focused on early-stage blockchain investments. The company has supported major projects such as OpenSea and 1inch, demonstrating its continued interest in Web3 infrastructure.
In addition to Gumi’s Bitcoin investment, the company also plans to expand its involvement in crypto-related projects around the world. The company’s roadmap includes acquiring more blockchain assets and investing in emerging crypto companies.

Publicly traded companies buying Bitcoin
Gumi joins a growing list of publicly traded companies that have bought Bitcoin. Another example of Bitcoin adoption in Japan is Metaplanet, which began a Bitcoin investment strategy in May 2023 and later added $60 million worth of Bitcoin holdings.

In the United States, Semler Scientific reported holding 1,273 bitcoins as of November 2023. Other companies with bitcoin holdings include KULR Technology, Matador Technologies, and Quantum BioPharma, all of which have added bitcoin to their balance sheets.

Miners accumulate Bitcoin
Bitcoin miners are also increasing their corporate Bitcoin holdings. Mining company CleanSpark added more than 1,000 Bitcoins in the fourth quarter of 2024, bringing its total holdings to 10,556 Bitcoins.

Meanwhile, Michael Saylor’s Strategy (formerly MicroStrategy) recently acquired 7,633 Bitcoins at an average price of $97,255 per coin. The company has been increasing its Bitcoin purchases since late 2024.

Gumi’s Bitcoin investment puts the company among other companies accumulating Bitcoin while expanding its role in blockchain infrastructure and Web3 development.