Aplus Launches First Crypto Rewards Program in Japan, Letting Users Earn XRP Without Spending Yen
Japanese credit card users can now enter the cryptocurrency market without ever touching cash, thanks to a groundbreaking collaboration between Aplus, a Shinsei Bank subsidiary, and SBI VC Trade, the crypto arm of SBI Holdings.
Unveiled on July 8, 2025, the program allows Aplus cardholders to redeem loyalty points for cryptocurrencies, including XRP, Bitcoin (BTC), and Ethereum (ETH)—marking the first major integration of crypto into a Japanese rewards system.
Points to Crypto: How the Aplus System Works
Under the new system, for every 200 yen spent, users earn 1 Aplus point. Consumers who spend more than 50,000 yen monthly get a bonus 0.5% in points. Points are valid for two years, offering ample time for redemption.
Now, 2,100 points can be redeemed for more than 2,000 yen worth of cryptocurrency, or approximately $13–$15 USD as of July 15, 2025.
This move connects daily consumer behavior—swiping a credit card—with digital asset ownership, providing a risk-free entry point into crypto for average users.
Why XRP Is Leading the Way
XRP’s inclusion is no coincidence. SBI Holdings has had a longstanding alliance with Ripple, the company behind XRP. SBI was among the first to adopt XRP, even listing it as the initial trading asset on SBI VC Trade in 2018.
Since then, SBI has launched XRP-based lending services, backed NFTs on XRPL, and supported XRP for cross-border payments due to its low fees and fast settlement speeds.
Japan’s regulatory clarity, led by the Financial Services Agency (FSA), has paved the way for such innovation, offering both investor protection and technological advancement.
Making Crypto Accessible for Everyone
By enabling point-to-crypto conversion, Aplus and SBI are demystifying digital assets for the public. The integration removes the need for direct investment or technical knowledge, making it especially appealing to first-time crypto users.
Even though 2,000 yen may seem minor, the psychological shift is major: consumers are now associating loyalty rewards with digital finance.
“It’s everyday finance meeting the blockchain,” said one user on social media.
The program also introduces gamification into personal finance, making credit card spending more engaging and crypto ownership more approachable.
Strategic Implications for SBI and XRP
For SBI Holdings, this move is not just a new feature—it’s a strategic extension of its crypto ecosystem. The firm is weaving together its banking, card services, and crypto exchange into a unified financial network.
By making XRP part of its rewards system, SBI is sending a strong message: blockchain finance is no longer niche—it’s mainstream. This strengthens SBI’s position as a leader in digital asset adoption in Asia, while positioning XRP as a tool for wealth building and financial inclusion.
Global Context: A Growing Trend
The Aplus initiative fits into a global pattern. In the U.S., credit giants like Amex, Visa, and Mastercard have launched similar crypto-reward partnerships with platforms like Coinbase, BlockFi, and Gemini.
However, Japan’s version benefits from clear legal frameworks and a more centralized integration model, making it a stable and scalable prototype for regulated crypto adoption worldwide.
Unlike speculative crypto trading apps, Aplus offers a user-friendly, compliant, and safe experience for new entrants.
Things to Consider Before You Redeem
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Redemption Value: 2,100 points convert to roughly 2,000 yen, which may limit frequent usage.
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Tax Obligations: Rewards are potentially taxable depending on appreciation and future sale.
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Custody Responsibility: Users must manage their own crypto via SBI VC Trade or personal wallets.
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Redemption Frequency: No clarity yet on whether redemptions can occur monthly or have restrictions.
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Education Needed: Clear user guidelines are essential to avoid confusion and promote safe participation.
