Japanese credit card users can now convert loyalty points into cryptographic codes. Aplus, a major conglomerate SBI group, allows cardholders to redeem APLUS points for small amounts of Bitcoin
2,100 points will earn a token worth 1 yen in Japan, which is more than about $13 at the current exchange rate. The ciphers are processed by SBI’s Exchange Arm and are deposited directly into the user’s VC trading account.
This feature is opt-in and can only be used on eligible cards under the APLUS Points program.
Although relatively small, this is the first time cryptocurrency has been added to Aplus prize catalog, which previously focused on cashback and partner rewards.
In the case of SBI, it is a low stakes that promotes user exposure without pushing speculative transactions. Banks have supported Ripple for years, and XRP was the first token to be listed on VC Trade when it was launched in 2018.
Integration is important in Japan’s heavily regulated crypto environment, showing compliance maturity that most regions still lack, allowing daily card users to get a glimpse into the crypto experience without a marketing blitz.
