How Aplus credit card points can be converted into XRP and other cryptocurrencies
On July 8, 2025, Aplus, a credit card and financial services company under Japan’s Shinsei Bank Group, collaborated with SBI VC Trade, the cryptocurrency exchange division of SBI Holdings, to introduce a pioneering rewards program.
For the first time, cryptocurrencies have been incorporated as redeemable assets within the Aplus Points program. If you are an Aplus credit cardholder, you can now convert your reward points into cryptocurrencies, including XRP (XRP), Bitcoin (BTC) and Ether (ETH). This makes Aplus the first major Japanese loyalty program to enable direct conversion of points to cryptocurrencies.
Before this, Aplus points could be redeemed by consumers for cash, merchandise or airline miles. This new feature connects everyday spending with digital assets. Cardholders can now redeem 2,100 Aplus points for over 2,000 Japanese yen worth of cryptocurrency. This initiative highlights SBI’s commitment to promoting cryptocurrency adoption in Japan, particularly through its support for XRP. The program simplifies access to digital assets, providing an easy, cash-free way for users to acquire cryptocurrencies.
How the Aplus point system works
The Aplus Points system rewards customers based on their monthly credit card spending. For every 200 yen spent with an Aplus credit card, users earn 1 Aplus point.
If you spend 50,000 yen or more monthly, you receive an extra 0.5% bonus on your points, encouraging higher card usage. Points remain valid for two years from the month they’re earned, giving users plenty of time to redeem them.
With the new cryptocurrency integration, you can now convert 2,100 Aplus points into over 2,000 yen worth of cryptocurrency, equivalent to about $13-$15 as of July 15, 2025, depending on exchange rates.
This option applies to three supported digital assets: XRP, BTC and ETH. The process offers a simple, cash-free way for everyday users to enter the cryptocurrency market without needing direct investment or technical knowledge.
Did you know? American Express, Mastercard and Visa have all explored or launched crypto rewards with partners such as Coinbase, BlockFi and Gemini, showing that traditional finance embraces digital perks.
Why XRP is part of the Aplus point redemption program
Including XRP in the Aplus point redemption system aligns with SBI Holdings’ long-standing partnership with Ripple. It is in sync with XRP’s utility in Japan’s growing digital economy.
XRP was the first cryptocurrency offered on SBI VC Trade when it began operations in 2018. Since then, SBI has expanded its XRP-related services to include lending and non-fungible token (NFT) projects on the XRP Ledger (XRPL).
XRP’s fast transaction speeds and low fees make it well-suited for cross-border payments, offering cost advantages over Bitcoin and Ethereum.
Japan’s clear regulatory framework for digital assets, established by the Financial Services Agency (FSA), supports cryptocurrency adoption while ensuring investor protection. This regulatory clarity enables entities like SBI and Aplus to integrate cryptocurrencies into consumer finance smoothly.
Did you know? Even if you don’t buy crypto directly, rewards-based crypto is taxable in many countries once you redeem or sell it. Your “free” Bitcoin could come with a tax bill.
How Aplus point conversion makes crypto more accessible to everyday users
The integration of XRP into the Aplus point system provides consumers with a simple, risk-free way to access cryptocurrency without using cash.
By making everyday purchases with your Aplus credit card, users earn points that can be converted into XRP, BTC or Ether through the Aplus portal or SBI VC Trade.
Although the redemption value of 2,000 yen (for 2,100 points) may seem small, it offers a practical link between regular spending and owning digital assets.
This approach makes cryptocurrency more accessible to everyday users, particularly those cautious about direct investments. The system is ideal for both newcomers to cryptocurrency and those seeking to diversify their loyalty point usage. It simplifies the process of entering the crypto market and supports wider adoption of digital assets within Japan’s regulated financial environment.
Strategic implications of XRP and Aplus integration for SBI
Integrating XRP with Aplus credit points represents a strategic expansion of SBI’s financial ecosystem. It links SBI’s traditional banking services, credit card operations and cryptocurrency exchange (SBI…
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