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 

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.

Read the full story at CoinTelegraph.