Retail investors worldwide are approaching 2025 with a clear focus on financial growth and diversification. In the UAE, a survey by trading platform eToro revealed growing interest in cryptocurrencies, with 37% of respondents planning to expand their crypto investments alongside traditional assets like stocks and real estate. Meanwhile, software giant MicroStrategy continues to double down on its Bitcoin strategy, seeking shareholder approval to significantly expand its equity-issuance plan to fund a $42 billion Bitcoin acquisition goal over the next three years. MicroStrategy Seeks Shareholder Approval to Expand Equity Plan and Accelerate Bitcoin Purchases Software company MicroStrategy is making a bold move to solidify its position as a leading institutional Bitcoin investor. The company announced a special shareholder meeting to seek approval for an expanded equity-issuance plan, allowing it to purchase more Bitcoin. This development comes as part of its ambitious ”21/21 Plan,” aimed at significantly increasing its Bitcoin holdings over the next three years. In a Dec. 23 proxy filing with the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), MicroStrategy outlined proposals to increase the number of authorized shares for both Class A common stock and preferred stock. If approved, these amendments will provide the company with greater flexibility to issue shares and raise capital. Class A Common Stock: The proposal seeks to increase authorized shares from 330 million to 10.33 billion. Preferred Stock: The proposal aims to expand authorized shares from 5 million to over 1 billion. According to the filing, these changes are critical to supporting the company’s strategic initiatives, particularly its 21/21 Plan, which was unveiled in October. The 21/21 Plan MicroStrategy's 21/21 Plan outlines an aggressive goal: to purchase an additional $42 billion worth of Bitcoin by 2027. The funding strategy is equally ambitious, involving $21 billion raised through equity sales and another $21 billion via fixed-income securities. The company stated in its filing, “Proposals 1 and 2 for this Special Meeting request an increase in the authorized shares of the capital stock of the Company to support further implementation of our 21/21 Plan and future capital markets activity more generally as well as other corporate purposes.” MicroStrategy’s focus on Bitcoin is not new; the company has been a consistent buyer since 2020. However, the pace of acquisitions has intensified since the announcement of the 21/21 Plan. In December alone, the company acquired 42,162 Bitcoin, valued at over $4 billion at current market prices. This surge in purchases has bolstered MicroStrategy’s Bitcoin holdings to a staggering 444,262 BTC as of Dec. 22. The total cost of acquiring these coins stands at $27.7 billion, with an average purchase price of $62,257 per Bitcoin. At current market rates, the total value of the company’s Bitcoin holdings is approximately $43.53 billion. MicroStrategy has already raised substantial funds to fuel its Bitcoin acquisitions: Equity Sales: $13 billion raised through stock issuances. Debt Offerings: $3 billion raised via convertible bonds. The company has also reported strong yields on its Bitcoin holdings, achieving a BTC yield of 17.8% by the end of October. It aims to maintain an annual yield of 6% to 10% between 2025 and 2027. MicroStrategy’s aggressive Bitcoin strategy has been a boon for its stock performance. Shares on the Nasdaq have soared by over 422% year-to-date, largely driven by investor confidence in its cryptocurrency-focused strategy. The date for the special shareholder meeting has not been disclosed, but the outcome will play a pivotal role in shaping the company’s future. If shareholders approve the proposals, MicroStrategy will have the resources to accelerate its Bitcoin acquisitions further. The company’s next earnings report, scheduled for Feb. 2, 2025, will likely shed light on its progress and the impact of its Bitcoin holdings on its financial performance. A Bold Bet on Bitcoin MicroStrategy’s CEO, Michael Saylor, has consistently championed Bitcoin as a transformative asset. The company’s latest moves demonstrates its push to integrate Bitcoin into its corporate strategy. With over $43 billion worth of Bitcoin already on its balance sheet and plans to acquire billions more, MicroStrategy remains at the forefront of institutional Bitcoin adoption. While the approach has garnered praise from cryptocurrency enthusiasts, it has also raised questions about the risks associated with such an aggressive investment strategy. As the company continues to double down on Bitcoin , all eyes will be on its execution of the 21/21 Plan and its impact on shareholder value in the years to come. Survey Reveals UAE Retail Investors Plan to Expand Crypto Investments in 2025 In other news, a recent survey commissioned by trading platform eToro has shed light on the financial aspirations of retail investors in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for 2025, revealing a significant interest in increasing investments in cryptocurrencies. The survey, which involved 1,000 participants, highlighted a proactive approach to wealth building and self-improvement among UAE residents. According to the survey, 37% of respondents expressed plans to increase their crypto asset investments in the coming year. This aligns with broader financial goals shared by 54% of participants, who listed achieving financial stability and growth as their primary New Year’s resolutions. These goals ranged from investing in traditional assets like stocks, bonds, and commodities to diversifying portfolios with cryptocurrencies. While cryptocurrencies garnered significant attention, traditional asset classes remained a priority for UAE investors: 40% of participants aim to increase their exposure to stocks, bonds, and commodities. 38% plan to invest in real estate, reflecting a balanced approach to asset diversification. Participants also shared their strategies for meeting their financial aspirations. Notably, 51% of respondents indicated they would increase their overall savings or investment contributions. Other approaches included: Budget and Expense Management: 41% plan to implement comprehensive tracking of their expenses and budgeting to better manage their finances. Lifestyle Adjustments: 38% aim to adopt more frugal and mindful lifestyles, while 28% intend to cut down on shopping and dining out. In addition to savings and budgeting, many UAE investors are looking to boost their earnings through alternative means: Side Hustles: 32% of respondents plan to launch side businesses to generate additional income. Career Changes: 28% are considering career shifts in pursuit of higher salaries. This entrepreneurial spirit aligns with the UAE's broader economic landscape, where innovation and adaptability are highly valued. In a news release, George Naddaf, eToro’s regional manager, praised the proactive mindset of UAE investors, describing their resolutions as a blend of financial security and personal growth. Naddaf remarked, ”2025’s resolutions highlight a proactive approach to not just financial security but also a desire for self-improvement and adaptability.” He also emphasized the UAE’s forward-thinking culture, noting that the country continues to lead in financial resilience and personal development. Beyond financial goals, the survey revealed that UAE residents are equally focused on personal development: 41% of respondents prioritize personal growth, which includes enhancing skills, education, and professional advancement. 34% placed health and well-being at the top of their resolutions, with many planning to focus on fitness, mental health, and stronger social or family connections. The UAE’s Financial and Personal Growth Mindset The survey results reflect a unique blend of financial ambition and holistic self-improvement among UAE residents. The increasing interest in crypto investments sheds light on the nation’s openness to innovative financial strategies, while commitments to health and personal development suggest a balanced approach to life. As 2025 approaches, UAE retail investors are setting the stage for a year of growth and resilience. Whether through increased investments in cryptocurrencies, real estate, or traditional asset classes, or through personal and professional development, their goals demonstrate a forward-thinking and adaptive mindset. The UAE’s commitment to innovation and financial stability continues to position it as a leader in global investment trends, with its residents at the forefront of these developments.
