SBI Group’s APLUS Program in Japan Lets Credit Card Users Redeem Points for Crypto
Japan’s SBI Group has introduced a new feature allowing credit card holders in its APLUS program to convert loyalty points into cryptocurrencies, including bitcoin (BTC), ether (ETH), and XRP. This expands the program’s traditional rewards beyond cashbacks and partner offers.
Users can redeem points for small amounts of digital tokens, with 2,100 points currently worth just over 2,000 yen (about $13). The cryptocurrency is supplied by SBI’s exchange arm and deposited directly into users’ VC Trade accounts.
Though the crypto amounts are modest, this marks the first time SBI has integrated digital assets into its credit card rewards. It offers a regulated, low-risk way for users to familiarize themselves with cryptocurrency.
SBI has a longstanding relationship with Ripple, having launched XRP as the first token on its VC Trade exchange in 2018. This new offering reflects Japan’s evolving crypto regulations and growing mainstream adoption.
