Botanix Labs is excited to announce a new strategic partnership with Hinode Technologies Inc., a joint venture between gumi Inc. and TIS Inc., to help expand Bitcoin’s role in global finance and support the growth of Bitcoin yield in Japan.

Hinode Technologies brings deep experience in blockchain infrastructure, operating validator nodes across leading networks and building real-world financial systems around crypto assets. As part of this partnership, Hinode Technologies will work closely with decentralized applications (DApps) in the Botanix ecosystem, and plans to operate a Botanix validator node in the future.

Why This Partnership Matters

Botanix is a Bitcoin-based blockchain that enables BTC to be deposited and used as stBTC, the new Bitcoin yield standard. stBTC is not printed or farmed. It is backed by real economic activity and redistributes Bitcoin gas fees directly back to users. With stBTC, Bitcoiners can stake BTC, earn BTC, and redeem instantly. This makes Botanix the first blockchain to deliver native Bitcoin yield at scale.

By aligning with Hinode Technologies, Botanix gains a strong partner in Japan with both institutional credibility and a proven track record in blockchain operations. The partnership reflects growing recognition of Bitcoin as more than a store of value. It is an asset that can now generate yield securely and transparently.

Rise of Bitcoin in Japan

Japan has long been a leading jurisdiction in crypto regulation and infrastructure, and recent data suggest that adoption is accelerating—especially at the institutional level.

• In Q1 2025, Japanese institutions ramped up crypto initiatives with a strong focus on Bitcoin. For example, Tokyo-listed Metaplanet Inc. acquired 5,034 BTC in early 2025 (bringing its total to 6,796 BTC) in a bid to accumulate 10,000 BTC by year-end.

• More Japanese firms are adding to their BTC treasuries even amid market volatility.

• Regulators and policymakers are pushing reforms to make crypto more accessible. In 2025, the Japanese Financial Services Agency (FSA) proposed revisions to tax treatment (potentially reducing gains tax on crypto) and tighter regulatory frameworks that treat crypto more like traditional financial products.

• On the regulatory front, the “Amendment Act 2025” is under consideration, which would introduce new licenses for crypto intermediaries and streamline supervision of crypto-asset businesses.

• On a global scale, Japan ranks #19 in the 2025 Chainalysis Global Crypto Adoption Index—respectable among many developed markets.

These signs suggest the environment in Japan is entering a new phase: one where institutional adoption, clearer regulation, and infrastructure deployment all feed each other.

About Hinode Technologies

Hinode Technologies Inc. is a joint venture between gC Labs (a subsidiary of gumi) and TIS Inc. Its mission is to build world-class system infrastructure and drive real-world adoption of emerging technologies. Hinode focuses on operating blockchain nodes that form the backbone of Web3 infrastructure and plans to expand into crypto accounting and asset management systems. Learn more.

About gumi Inc.

gumi Inc. operates two core businesses: mobile online games and blockchain-related technology. In blockchain, gumi develops blockchain-based game content, operates validator nodes, and invests globally in Web3 projects and funds.