Bitbank Launches Japan's First Crypto-Settled Credit Card

3 hour ago 6 sources positive

Key takeaways:

  • Bitbank's Visa card is a structural step toward crypto-as-paycheck, not just speculation.
  • Japan's regulated stablecoin framework creates unique groundwork fiat-crypto settlement rails.
  • Competing cards offering 0.5% cashback may pressure altcoin integration timelines market-wide.

Japanese crypto exchange Bitbank has launched a Visa credit card that allows users to settle monthly bills directly with bitcoin held on its platform. The card, named 'EPOS Crypto Card for Bitbank,' was developed in partnership with EPOS Card, the fintech arm of Marui Group.

Bitbank stated that this is the first service in Japan enabling credit card payments to be settled directly from a crypto exchange balance. Currently, the automatic settlement feature is limited to bitcoin, but the exchange and EPOS Card may consider adding more cryptocurrencies later.

Beyond bill settlement, the card offers a 0.5% crypto cashback on monthly spending, with rewards available in bitcoin, ether, or Aster. These rewards are deposited directly into users' Bitbank accounts, encouraging accumulation of digital assets through routine spending.

This launch follows similar moves in Japan, such as Binance Japan's card from January 2026. However, Bitbank's approach focuses on integrating crypto into existing credit card infrastructure at the settlement layer, making it more accessible to everyday consumers. The product represents a significant step for crypto payments in Japan's regulated market.

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