Welcome to This Week in Crypto, where we break down the biggest headlines shaping the digital asset space. From network upgrades to treasury moves and key regulatory moments, here’s what’s been making news this week:
Here’s a quick look at what’s new:
- Japan launches first yen-backed stablecoin: Tokyo-based fintech firm JPYC rolled out Japan’s first stablecoin tied to the yen, backed 1:1 by deposits and government bonds.
- Bitcoin logo trademark sparks online takedowns: A trademark filing in Spain led to removal of Bitcoin merchandise from Amazon and Etsy, raising questions about global IP enforcement.
- Bitplanet begins daily Bitcoin buys: The South Korean company kicked off a regulated daily purchase program, starting with 93 BTC, as it builds toward a 10,000 BTC treasury.
Let’s take a closer look at what it all means for the crypto space this week!
Japan Launches First Yen-Backed Stablecoin, JPYC
A new stablecoin backed by the Japanese yen has officially launched in Japan. The Tokyo-based fintech company JPYC rolled out the coin, along with a secure platform to issue and redeem it. The move marks a step forward in Japan’s approach to digital finance.
- JPYC is backed 1:1 by yen deposits and government bonds, with a fixed exchange rate to the Japanese yen.
- The company also launched JPYC EX, a platform for users to deposit yen and receive stablecoins under regulated identity and transaction checks.
- Several companies have already shown interest, and JPYC has plans to grow the project over the next three years.
Other Japanese financial institutions are exploring their own yen-backed stablecoins, and regulatory changes may be coming to support the growth of digital assets. For now, JPYC is leading the way as Japan’s first stablecoin tied to its national currency.
Bitcoin Logo Trademark Filing Sparks Product Takedowns
A new trademark filed in Spain is causing Bitcoin-themed items to be removed from online marketplaces. The filing covers the Bitcoin logo and has triggered takedown requests on Amazon and Etsy. Sellers are now facing unexpected enforcement actions based on a single country’s registration.
- The trademark owner used Amazon’s Brand Registry tools to request removals, despite courts in Spain previously ruling the Bitcoin logo is public domain.
- Etsy has a similar process and has also taken down listings following the same trademark claim.
- Legal efforts to cancel the trademark may take time, so removals may continue in the short term.
This situation shows a gap between marketplace policies and national court rulings. Even though the logo has been ruled public in Spain, global platforms continue to enforce based on trademark paperwork.
Bitplanet Begins Daily Bitcoin Buys With Goal of 10,000 BTC
South Korea-based Bitplanet has started a daily Bitcoin purchase program, beginning with a 93 BTC buy. The company says it’s the first public firm in Korea to purchase Bitcoin through a fully regulated process. Bitplanet plans to continue buying Bitcoin as part of a long-term strategy.
- Bitplanet aims to build a 10,000 BTC treasury over time and recently raised $40 million to support this effort.
- The company’s approach focuses on steady daily buys instead of one-time purchases, to lower timing risks.
- Bitplanet says it’s committed to using regulated infrastructure and strong compliance standards.
Backed by major investors in both crypto and traditional finance, Bitplanet is positioning itself as a leader in corporate Bitcoin use in South Korea. The company sees this move as a way to formalize Bitcoin in its treasury for the long haul.
