XRP News Today: Japanese Credit Card Users Can Now Convert Loyalty Points Into Cryptocurrencies

Japanese credit card users can now convert their loyalty points into cryptocurrencies, marking a significant step in the integration of digital assets into mainstream financial services. The initiative, a collaboration between Aplus, a credit card service under the Shinsei Bank Group, and SBI VC Trade, the crypto exchange arm of SBI Holdings, allows cardholders to redeem their Aplus Points for Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and XRP.

The redemption scheme is straightforward: users can exchange 2,100 Aplus Points for approximately ¥2,000 worth of any of the three cryptocurrencies. This feature is integrated into the existing cardholder platform, making it convenient for users to convert their loyalty points into digital assets. The program is part of a broader trend in Japan to incorporate cryptocurrency into everyday financial transactions, lowering the barrier for mainstream users to access crypto.

SBI Holdings, a prominent player in the Japanese financial sector, has been a long-time advocate for XRP, known for its speed and low-cost transactions. The company has already implemented Ripple-based infrastructure in over 70% of Japan’s banking sector and plans to extend this to 80% by the end of 2025. This new consumer-level integration through Aplus aligns with SBI’s vision to make digital assets a part of everyday financial transactions. By enabling Aplus users to redeem points for XRP, the program strengthens XRP’s presence in the consumer finance ecosystem and may increase its real-world usage.

For consumers, this program offers an easy and risk-free entry into the world of cryptocurrency. Instead of traditional redemptions such as gift cards or airline miles, cardholders can now choose to convert their loyalty rewards into valuable digital assets. This shift signals that crypto is no longer confined to exchanges or investment platforms; it’s entering daily financial behavior. As the pilot program unfolds, its success could pave the way for similar initiatives across Japan and globally, blurring the line between traditional banking and decentralized finance.