TL;DR

  • American Bitcoin, backed by Donald Trump Jr and Eric Trump, is exploring acquisitions of listed companies in Japan and Hong Kong to expand its bitcoin holdings.

  • The firm is also preparing to go public in the US via a reverse merger.

  • Asia’s growing interest in digital assets presents an opportunity for new treasury-style companies to attract investors seeking indirect exposure to crypto markets.

American Bitcoin, a US cryptocurrency mining firm supported by Donald Trump Jr and Eric Trump, is actively pursuing companies in Asia to expand its bitcoin reserves, according to sources familiar with the plans. The company has started discussions with potential investors about acquisitions, aiming to secure a listed company in Japan and possibly one in Hong Kong.

The move is designed to allow American Bitcoin to hold crypto assets, following a strategy similar to the one pioneered by Michael Saylor’s company. The Trump family’s recent involvement in digital currencies has contributed to rising bitcoin prices and has fueled the growth of “crypto treasury” companies, which raise capital through stock or debt issuance to invest in tokens. This model offers a simpler way for investors to gain exposure to crypto without owning it directly.

Market Value And Strategy Expansion

Treasury-style companies have shown significant potential, with Strategy’s market capitalization approaching $110 billion while holding over 600,000 bitcoins. American Bitcoin stated its goal is to build “the strongest and most efficient Bitcoin accumulation platform globally,” focusing on operational efficiency, treasury management, and long-term value for shareholders. The company emphasized that while it is exploring opportunities in Asia, no binding agreements have been signed.

American Bitcoin differs from other treasury firms because it also mines new bitcoin. The company is preparing to go public in the US in September through a reverse merger with Nasdaq-listed Gryphon Digital Mining. Eric Trump, co-founder and chief strategy officer, has been a key driver of the firm’s expansion. The company was formerly known as “American Data Centers” and rebranded in partnership with Hut 8, which provided its mining equipment in exchange for a majority stake.

Image of Eric Trump

Asia’s Growing Crypto Interest

Asian markets, particularly Hong Kong, have a vibrant community of retail crypto traders and are working to become digital asset hubs. Launching treasury-style companies in these regions could tap into new sources of demand. The Trump family is actively engaged across multiple crypto ventures, including President Trump’s involvement in World Liberty Financial and plans by Trump Media & Technology Group to build a $2.5 billion bitcoin treasury through equity and convertible bond offerings.