XRP Rewards Now Available Through Credit Cards in Japan

The integration of XRP into mainstream consumer systems has taken a significant leap forward in Japan, as users can now earn the digital asset through credit card rewards. This innovative feature is the result of a collaborative effort between Aplus, a credit card provider under the umbrella of SBI Shinsei Bank Group, and SBI VC Trade, the cryptocurrency exchange owned by SBI Holdings.

The new scheme enables Aplus cardholders to convert their accumulated points into cryptocurrencies, including XRP, Bitcoin (BTC), and Ethereum (ETH). This marks a notable expansion of the Aplus Points program, which previously limited its rewards to tangible goods, digital items, cash redemptions, or point transfers to partner services. Now, crypto becomes a real, actionable alternative.

From now on, users spending with their Aplus card can transform 2,100 points into cryptocurrency worth 2,000 Japanese yen. This opens the door for cardholders to engage in digital asset investing passively, simply by using their card for everyday purchases. It’s a practical, user-friendly method that bridges traditional finance and blockchain investment for the Japanese public.

The inclusion of XRP in this reward structure is especially notable given the long-standing relationship between SBI Holdings and Ripple. That partnership has spanned several years and played a key role in positioning XRP as one of the most recognized cryptocurrencies in Asia, particularly within Japan’s regulated financial framework. In fact, XRP was the only tradable asset when SBI VC Trade launched in 2018.

This alignment between Ripple and SBI continues to deepen, as additional XRP-related offerings have emerged from the financial group. Among these is the introduction of XRP-based lending options through SBI VC Trade, launched in early 2025. In addition, SBI Holdings has ventured into the realm of non-fungible tokens (NFTs), launching a project on the XRP Ledger (XRPL), further embedding XRP within its suite of digital finance solutions.

This strategic move aligns with Japan’s increasing openness to cryptocurrency innovation, as companies and consumers alike demonstrate growing interest in blockchain-powered financial instruments. By making XRP accessible via credit card points, SBI and Aplus aren’t just rewarding customers—they’re encouraging broader adoption of crypto assets through simple, everyday user activity.

Such developments affirm the utility of XRP beyond speculative trading, showcasing how the token can be seamlessly integrated into loyalty ecosystems. This expansion in functionality not only reinforces XRP’s market relevance but also enhances its profile among consumers less familiar with cryptocurrency exchanges.

As the global financial sector continues to blend with digital currencies, the partnership between Aplus and SBI VC Trade presents a model for how traditional finance can evolve. The integration signals a future where cryptocurrency sits comfortably alongside fiat rewards and other digital assets, driven by user-centric applications and trusted financial institutions.

The successful inclusion of XRP in point-based reward systems like Aplus not only strengthens Ripple’s presence in Asia but also paves the way for similar implementations worldwide. As users begin transacting and investing with XRP without even visiting a trading platform, its role as a bridge currency becomes more tangible and mainstream.

Related: Expert Advice: Sell XRP If You’re Confused

This advancement serves as another example of how partnerships between fintech and crypto-native platforms can offer practical, real-world use cases for digital assets like XRP.