Cantor Equity Partners (CEP) has announced a substantial bitcoin acquisition totaling $458.7 million as part of its upcoming merger with Twenty One Capital, a BTC-centric investment vehicle supported by Tether, Bitfinex, and SoftBank.
The regulatory filing made on Tuesday reveals how the transaction is designed through a complex business arrangement involving Tether Investments, its El Salvador affiliate, and iFinex, the parent of Bitfinex. Notably, Tether acquired around 4,812 BTC at an average price of $95,319, with these tokens being held in escrow for future sale to the merged entity.
Blockchain analytics further illustrate that the escrow wallet, referenced in the regulatory documentation, received these tokens from a Bitfinex hot wallet back on May 9. The current value of the bitcoin held in this wallet stands at approximately $500 million, according to Arkham data.
Background on Twenty One Capital
Twenty One Capital is spearheaded by Brandon Lutnick, who is the son of U.S. Commerce Secretary and Cantor Fitzgerald chairman Howard Lutnick. This venture employs a SPAC strategy using Cantor Equity Partners and is set to be led by Strike CEO Jack Mallers, with major ownership linked to Tether and iFinex. SoftBank is also reported to hold a significant minority stake in this enterprise.
The company aims to have a BTC reserve of over 42,000 by its launch. Following the announcement, CEP shares have increased by 3.7% in after-hours trading.
Read more: Strike CEO Mallers to Lead Bitcoin Investment Company Backed by Tether, Softbank, Brandon Lutnick
