according to the materials from the site - By Cointelegraph
On July 8, 2025, Aplus, a provider of credit cards and financial services as part of the Japanese Shinsei Bank Group, together with SBI VC Trade, a subsidiary of SBI Holdings for cryptocurrency exchange, introduced an innovative rewards program.
For the first time, cryptocurrencies were included as exchangeable assets in the Aplus points program. Aplus credit cardholders can now convert their points into cryptocurrencies, including XRP (XRP), Bitcoin (BTC), and Ethereum (ETH). This makes Aplus the first major Japanese loyalty program that allows direct conversion of points into cryptocurrency.
Previously, consumers could exchange Aplus points for cash, goods, or airline miles. This new feature links everyday spending with digital assets. Cardholders can now exchange 2100 Aplus points for cryptocurrency worth over 2000 Japanese yen. This initiative underscores SBI's commitment to facilitating the adoption of cryptocurrencies in Japan, particularly through support for XRP. The program simplifies access to digital assets, providing users with an easy and cashless way to acquire cryptocurrency.
The Aplus points system rewards customers based on their monthly credit card spending. For every 200 yen spent using the Aplus credit card, users earn 1 Aplus point.
If you spend 50,000 yen or more per month, you receive an additional bonus of 0.5% to your points, encouraging more active use of the card. Points are valid for two years from the month they are accrued, giving users ample time to use them.
Thanks to the new cryptocurrency integration, you can now convert 2100 Aplus points into cryptocurrency worth over 2000 yen, equivalent to approximately $13-$15 as of July 15, 2025, depending on the exchange rate.
This option is available for three supported digital assets: XRP, BTC, and ETH. This process offers a simple and cashless way for ordinary users to enter the cryptocurrency market without the need for direct investments or technical knowledge.
Did you know? American Express, Mastercard, and Visa have explored or launched cryptocurrency rewards programs in partnership with companies like Coinbase, BlockFi, and Gemini, demonstrating that traditional finance supports digital benefits.
The inclusion of XRP in the Aplus points redemption system aligns with SBI Holdings' long-standing partnership with Ripple. It resonates with the utility of XRP for Japan's growing digital economy.
XRP was the first cryptocurrency offered on SBI VC Trade since its launch in 2018. Since then, SBI has expanded its services related to XRP, including lending and non-fungible token (NFT) projects on the XRP Ledger (XRPL).
The high transaction speed and low fees of XRP make it an ideal tool for cross-border payments, offering price advantages over Bitcoin and Ethereum.
Japan's clear regulatory framework for digital assets, established by the Financial Services Agency (FSA), facilitates the adoption of cryptocurrency while providing investor protection. This clarity of regulation allows organizations like SBI and Aplus to seamlessly integrate cryptocurrencies into consumer financing.
Although the buyout cost of 2000 yen (for 2100 points) may seem small, it provides a practical connection between regular spending and ownership of digital assets.
This approach makes cryptocurrency more accessible to ordinary users, especially those who are cautious about direct investments. The system is ideally suited for both cryptocurrency newcomers and those looking to diversify their use of loyalty points. It simplifies the process of entering the cryptocurrency market and promotes broader adoption of digital assets in Japan's regulated financial environment.
The integration of XRP with Aplus credit points represents a strategic expansion of SBI's financial ecosystem. It connects SBI's traditional banking services, credit card operations, and cryptocurrency exchange (SBI VC Trade) with consumer-focused rewards for digital assets.
This initiative strengthens SBI's interconnected financial services and demonstrates the company's strong commitment to promoting cryptocurrency in Japan.
By including XRP as a reward option, SBI demonstrates a clear pro-cryptocurrency stance, setting an example for other banks in Japan and Asia. This move positions SBI as a leader in merging traditional finance with blockchain technology.
The initiative supports SBI's goal of integrating XRP into traditional financial systems, and company executives describe the adoption of XRP as a significant opportunity for wealth creation. This integration highlights the practical value of XRP and enhances SBI's role in shaping the future of digital finance.
Unlike speculative trading platforms, the Aplus program is a user-friendly initiative aimed at simplifying the use of digital assets for consumers. It prioritizes accessibility and education, allowing ordinary users to work with cryptocurrencies without financial risk.
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