On July 8, 2025, Aplus, a credit card company under Japan's Shinsei Bank Group, partnered with SBI VC Trade to launch a unique rewards program allowing credit cardholders to convert their Aplus points into cryptocurrencies like XRP, Bitcoin, and Ether. This marks the first major Japanese loyalty program to directly integrate cryptocurrency. Users redeem 2,100 points for over 2,000 yen worth of cryptocurrency, facilitating a link between everyday spending and digital asset acquisition. The Aplus system rewards customers based on monthly spending, with every 200 yen spent yielding 1 point and bonus points for higher spenders. SBI's inclusion of XRP aligns with its existing partnership with Ripple and XRP's utility in Japan's digital economy. The project's regulatory framework encourages adoption while providing a risk-free entry into cryptocurrency for cautious consumers. Integrating XRP enhances SBI's financial ecosystem, demonstrating a commitment to bridging traditional finance with blockchain technology, potentially setting a precedent for financial institutions in Japan and beyond.

Source đź”—