Three of Japan’s biggest financial companies – SBI Holdings, APLUS, and Visa – have teamed up to release a new credit card. This card allows customers to earn cryptocurrency – specifically Bitcoin, Ethereum, or XRP – with every purchase they make.
Beginning May 1st, the SBI VISA Crypto Card and SBI VISA Crypto Card Gold will automatically exchange your reward points for cryptocurrency. This change has the potential to introduce crypto rewards to a large number of everyday users.
Credit Card That Earns BTC, ETH, XRP As a Reward
During a press conference at SBI Holdings, Tomohiko Kondo, President of SBI VC Trade, explained the reason for launching the new card, stating,
Since this investment can change in value quickly, we designed a system where you can add to it gradually each month, helping you grow your wealth over time.
He also mentioned working with Visa to encourage the use of cryptocurrencies and stablecoins for payments.
Both cards let you earn rewards on everyday purchases. These rewards are then automatically exchanged for digital assets like Bitcoin, Ethereum, or XRP.
Takayuki Shimada, President and CEO of APLUS, said,
We’re building on our expertise in secure credit card payments to create the future of finance.
How the Crypto Reward System Works
As a researcher, I’ve found that our system automatically converts the reward points you earn from using your card into the cryptocurrency you’ve selected each month, and the best part is, there are no exchange fees. To receive these rewards, you’ll need an SBI VC Trade account. If you already have one, you can easily link it to start receiving your crypto rewards.
The standard card is designed for those just starting out, while the Gold card provides better rewards and additional perks.
SBIグループとVisaが連携、暗号資産（BTC、ETH、XRP）が貯まるクレジットカード誕生［SBI VCトレード, アプラス］
— 北尾吉孝 (@yoshitaka_kitao) May 1, 2026
To mark the new launch, applicants between May 1st and May 31st, 2026, will receive extra benefits. The standard card currently offers rewards of up to 2.5%, and the Gold card offers up to 10%.
Why XRP Users May Be Watching Closely
Although Bitcoin and Ethereum are still widely used, XRP is notable for its strong presence in Japan. SBI has been a long-time supporter of Ripple and its technology in that market.
As we previously reported, Yoshitaka Kitao, Chairman of SBI Holdings, stated that SBI owns approximately 9% of Ripple.
Offering XRP rewards is now more impactful, potentially attracting more Japanese users and boosting overall adoption.
Crypto Payments Expand in Japan
This week, Japan has seen several new cryptocurrency payment options become available. For example, on April 27th, EPOS Card and Bitbank launched the EPOS CRYPTO Card, which lets users easily access their cryptocurrency funds.
SLASH VISION, I-Kitas, and Orient Corporation teamed up to release the Slash Card on April 20th. This new card uses the USDC stablecoin – a digital currency pegged to the US dollar – for all transactions.
These recent developments, including new products from SBI and Visa, demonstrate that cryptocurrency is increasingly integrated into mainstream financial activities.
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2026-05-01 15:10