Vanguard discloses first Metaplanet stake, adding $7.5 million in indirect Bitcoin exposure

Vanguard, the $13 trillion asset manager known for its conservative stance toward cryptocurrencies, has added indirect Bitcoin exposure through its passive investment vehicles. The firm’s FTSE All-World ex-US Small-Cap ETF (VSS) reported for the first time a stake in Metaplanet, recognized as Japan’s leading corporate Bitcoin holder, with 4.5 million shares valued at about $7.5 million. This mark represents a shift, as mainstream index funds are channeling capital into the digital asset ecosystem without holding Bitcoin directly. Vanguard’s involvement in Metaplanet extends across several funds.