Prenetics has made significant strides in the digital currency space, confirming strategic plans to increase its Bitcoin holdings and changing its leadership.
Prenetics' Bitcoin Investments
Prenetics announced an investment of $20 million to acquire about 187 BTC at an average price of $106,712 each. The purchase was made through a Kraken custody account and is part of the company's strategy to become one of the largest corporate Bitcoin holders in the healthcare sector. This decision was also accompanied by changes in leadership, with former OKEx COO Andy Cheung joining the board and Tracy Hoyos Lopez, who helped shape Donald Trump's pro-Bitcoin stance, joining the advisory team. Lopez pointed out that Prenetics is well-positioned to capitalize on rising institutional interest in Bitcoin.
K33 Aiming for 1,000 BTC
Norwegian crypto firm K33 announced plans to raise at least 85 million Swedish krona (approximately $8.9 million) through a directed share issue to fund the purchase of up to 1,000 Bitcoin for its corporate reserves. K33 aims to enhance its financial position and operational capabilities. CEO Torbjørn Bull Jenssen described this move as the first step towards building a strong Bitcoin-based balance sheet. Earlier this month, K33 confirmed acquiring an initial 5 BTC valued at approximately $523,000.
Political Scandal Around Bitcoin in Czech Republic
In the Czech Republic, a political scandal erupted over a $45 million Bitcoin donation from a convicted criminal to the Ministry of Justice. This led to a failed no-confidence vote and the resignation of Justice Minister Pavel Blažek. Donor Tomáš Jiřikovský, who has prior convictions, made the donation after a court authorized the return of his previously seized devices. Authorities are now investigating the circumstances and potential conflicts of interest in the government.
The actions of Prenetics and K33 highlight the growing interest of the corporate sector in Bitcoin, while the political ramifications in the Czech Republic raise concerns about transparency and ethics in digital asset governance.
