Japan’s Aplus Card Launches XRP, BTC, ETH Points Conversion
@April, this matter is related to new project launches and ecosystem analysis, so I’m assigning it to you.
Key Event: Japan’s Aplus credit card now allows customers to convert their reward points into cryptocurrency—specifically XRP, Bitcoin, or Ether—starting July 21, 2025. This innovative program connects everyday spending to crypto ownership without requiring direct financial investment. While the system simplifies crypto adoption for beginners, key details like redemption limits and guidelines remain unclear, potentially affecting its uptake.
Aplus Credit Card Launches Cryptocurrency Rewards Program in Japan, Key Details on Redemption Limits Awaited
TOKYO, Japan – Starting July 21, 2025, Aplus credit card holders in Japan can convert their reward points into popular cryptocurrencies, including XRP, Bitcoin (BTC), and Ether (ETH). This move makes Aplus the first major rewards program in the country to offer direct crypto redemptions, providing a new avenue for customers to enter the digital asset market without direct financial investment.
Under the new program, cardholders can exchange 2,100 Aplus points for over 2,000 yen (approximately $13-$15 USD) worth of cryptocurrency. The process is designed to be user-friendly, requiring no technical background. Users can redeem their points through the Aplus portal or their SBI VC Trade account, a cryptocurrency exchange that is partnering with Aplus on this initiative.
The program is structured to be an accessible entry point for individuals new to cryptocurrency. Makoto Kobayashi, a senior manager at SBI VC Trade, stated that the goal is to offer a "safe and simple entry point for people who’ve never owned crypto before."
Cardholders earn one point for every 200 yen spent, with a bonus of an additional 0.5% in points for monthly spending of 50,000 yen or more. These points have a two-year validity period.
While the program simplifies crypto acquisition, users are still subject to Japanese regulations concerning digital assets, including potential tax liabilities on any appreciation in value. The redeemed cryptocurrencies will be deposited into the user's SBI VC Trade account.
However, crucial details regarding the program's operational guidelines remain unannounced. It is currently unclear if there will be monthly redemption limits or other restrictions, which could impact the program's long-term adoption and appeal to users. Aplus has not yet released the full guidelines, leaving potential users with questions about the frequency of redemptions and any minimum balance requirements.
This initiative is part of a broader trend of integrating digital assets with traditional financial products, aiming to make cryptocurrencies more accessible to a wider audience. The partnership between Aplus, a member of the SBI Shinsei Bank Group, and SBI VC Trade, a subsidiary of the financial giant SBI Holdings, highlights the growing interest of established financial institutions in the cryptocurrency space.
Hi April, for this article, focus on clearly explaining the core event: Aplus launching Japan's first credit card rewards program that lets users redeem points for cryptocurrencies like BTC and ETH. Start by summarizing the launch date, eligible cryptocurrencies, and key partnership with SBI VC Trade. Avoid overloading readers with technicalities—explain why this is significant, tying it to broader trends in crypto adoption and traditional finance. Highlight the unresolved piece: missing details on redemption limits, and briefly discuss its potential impact on user interest. Keep the tone concise and ensure no redundancy. Let me know once you’ve drafted the lead for review!
Headline: Japan’s Aplus Card Launches XRP, BTC, ETH Points Conversion
- Aplus enables cardholders to redeem reward points for BTC, ETH, and XRP starting July 21, 2025.
- Missing details on redemption limits raise questions about broad user adoption.
Aplus, a member of the SBI Shinsei Bank Group, is making history as the first credit card provider in Japan to allow reward points to be used to acquire cryptocurrencies. Starting July 21, 2025, Aplus cardholders can convert their accumulated points into Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and XRP through a partnership with SBI VC Trade, a cryptocurrency exchange platform. The program aims to simplify access to digital assets, targeting users unfamiliar with cryptocurrency by facilitating seamless conversions without requiring direct financial investment.
On July 20, 2025, CoinDesk reported that Aplus customers can exchange 2,100 points for over 2,000 yen (approximately $13–$15) worth of cryptocurrency. Redemptions can be done via the Aplus portal or users’ SBI VC Trade accounts, making the process user-friendly and aligned with regulatory requirements in Japan. Points are earned at a rate of one point for every 200 yen spent, with additional bonuses for higher monthly expenditures. The new program provides a low-risk entry point to the cryptocurrency market as the reward points expire after two years, encouraging users to make redemptions within that timeframe.
According to Makoto Kobayashi, senior manager at SBI VC Trade, the initiative is part of a broader effort to integrate digital assets into conventional financial systems, offering a “safe and simple entry point” to new cryptocurrency users. SBI Holdings, the financial group behind both Aplus and SBI VC Trade, has been vocal about its commitment to promoting crypto adoption in mainstream financial products.
Despite these advances, critical operational details remain unclear. Chiefly, Aplus has yet to disclose whether redemption limits or usage restrictions will apply. These unresolved factors could influence the program’s long-term appeal and scalability, as users weigh the convenience against potential limitations.
The Aplus crypto rewards program underscores the rising trend of merging traditional finance with blockchain innovations, catering to both experienced and novice users. The partnership between established financial firms further positions Japan as a leading market for crypto adoption. However, the lack of clarity around redemption guidelines may affect how widely the program is embraced.
As of July 20, 2025, 17:19 UTC, Bitcoin (BTC) is trading at $118,377.55, with a 0.36% increase in 24-hour trading volume. Ethereum (ETH) is priced at $3,779.60, seeing a 6.35% 24-hour volume increase. XRP (XRP) is valued at $3.50, marking a 1.85% change over the same period, according to the latest market updates.
