SBI Holdings, in partnership with Visa and APLUS, has launched a new credit card product that allows users to earn cryptocurrency rewards through everyday spending. The SBI VISA Crypto Card and SBI VISA Crypto Card Gold, released on May 1, 2026, automatically convert reward points into Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), or XRP.
At a press conference, Tomohiko Kondo, President of SBI VC Trade, explained the rationale behind the card, stating: "Because it is a highly volatile asset, we thought that a system that allows you to accumulate a little bit each month would help build your assets." He also noted the collaboration with Visa, saying: "We would like to cooperate and promote the settlement of cryptocurrencies and stablecoins as well."
The reward system works by converting points earned from card spending into the user's chosen cryptocurrency once per month without any exchange fees. Users need an SBI VC Trade account to receive rewards; existing users can link their current account. The standard card is designed for beginners, while the Gold card offers higher rewards and additional benefits.
Takayuki Shimada, President and CEO of APLUS, remarked: "Our mission is to evolve the safe and secure payment infrastructure we have cultivated in our credit card business into the next generation of finance." APLUS, part of SBI Shinsei Bank Group, will support the credit card and points structure.
The launch coincides with SBI Holdings seeking a larger role in Japan's crypto exchange market. SBI has initiated talks with Bitbank over a capital and business alliance that could make Bitbank a consolidated subsidiary. This follows SBI VC Trade's merger with Bitpoint Japan in April 2026. Bitbank has also expanded into crypto-linked payments with its EPOS Crypto Card, which allows users to settle monthly bills with bitcoin balances and offers 0.5% cashback in crypto.
The inclusion of XRP is particularly notable, as Japan has long been one of XRP's strongest markets and SBI has supported Ripple's ecosystem for years. SBI Holdings Chairman Yoshitaka Kitao previously stated that SBI owns approximately a 9% stake in Ripple.
To celebrate the launch, users who apply between May 1 and May 31, 2026, can receive bonus rewards. The regular card offers up to 2.5% rewards, while the Gold card offers up to 10%.
