Japanese Shoppers Now Scoop Up XRP With Credit Points—No Cash Required

Japanese consumers just got a new way to enter the crypto market—no cash, trading apps, or technical know-how required. Aplus credit card holders can now exchange their loyalty points straight into XRP, Bitcoin, or Ether via a groundbreaking program with SBI VC Trade.

For every shopping trip or bill paid, users rack up reward points that convert directly into cryptocurrency. This move offers a risk-free path for those curious about digital assets but hesitant to spend their yen on volatile tokens.

Can credit card points really give you free crypto in Japan?

In this new system, one Aplus point is awarded for every 200 yen spent. Once you collect at least 2,100 points, you can redeem them for more than 2,000 yen worth of the crypto of your choice. The redemption is handled through the Aplus rewards portal or SBI VC Trade.

The process is frictionless; there's no need for a separate investment account. The program removes both educational and financial hurdles, letting anyone start a digital asset portfolio just by using their credit card for regular expenses.

Did you know?
Japan’s Financial Services Agency approved clear rules for crypto assets as early as 2017, helping the country become one of the first to regulate digital currencies at the national level.

What makes SBI's crypto rewards program a first for Japanese finance?

This launch marks the first time a major Japanese card issuer has integrated direct crypto rewards rather than cashback or airline points. It instantly broadens access to digital currencies, especially XRP, in a market known for both tech enthusiasm and regulatory caution.

Japan's forward-thinking digital asset policies closely align with SBI's initiative. The initiative capitalizes on the nation's strong financial supervision, ensuring both innovation and consumer safety. Partnering with Ripple also showcases Japan’s embrace of blockchain’s real-world potential.

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Aplus partnership unlocks everyday access to digital assets

Users can still opt to redeem points for other traditional benefits, but now, crypto becomes an appealing alternative. The offering is ideal for cautious first-timers, as it allows shoppers to explore the crypto markets without any upfront risk or complexity.

Each redemption may seem small, equivalent to just over $13 based on current rates, but this model encourages incremental, everyday adoption rather than speculative investing. It brings blockchain to grocery stores, restaurants, and daily life.

Crypto rewards bridge traditional spending with blockchain technology

SBI’s integration does more than boost loyalty. It strengthens its financial ecosystem, linking cards, banking, and crypto trading platforms under one umbrella. For XRP, the partnership could deepen mainstream adoption, further solidifying its role in Japan’s digital future.

Major credit card brands and banks worldwide are experimenting with similar crypto reward offers, and Japan's clear regulations and institutional support position it at the forefront of finance's next major wave. The simple act of shopping just became a gateway to the blockchain era for millions across the country.