SBI Group has partnered with Visa on a credit card product that allows users to earn crypto assets through card rewards.
Summary
- SBI’s Visa card lets users earn crypto rewards in Bitcoin, Ethereum, and XRP.
- SBI VC Trade and Aplus will support the crypto rewards and card service.
- SBI is also discussing a Bitbank deal to expand its Japan crypto exchange presence.
The card supports Bitcoin, Ethereum, and XRP rewards through SBI VC Trade and Aplus. The product links daily card spending with crypto rewards. It also shows SBI’s continued push to connect traditional finance with regulated digital asset services in Japan.
Meanwhile, the new card gives users exposure to major crypto assets without direct spot purchases. Rewards are tied to BTC, ETH, and XRP, which are among the most traded digital assets in Japan.
SBI VC Trade will support the crypto side of the service. Aplus, part of SBI Shinsei Bank Group, will support the credit card and points structure.
Bitbank talks add exchange growth angle
The card launch comes as SBI Holdings is also seeking a larger role in Japan’s crypto exchange market. As we reported earlier today, SBI has started talks with Bitbank over a capital and business alliance that could make Bitbank a consolidated subsidiary.
The company plans to acquire shares after due diligence and internal procedures. The timing and structure of the transaction will be discussed later.
Moreover, SBI’s Bitbank talks follow SBI VC Trade’s merger with Bitpoint Japan in April 2026. This shows faster consolidation among Japanese crypto platforms.
Earlier this week, Bitbank has also expanded into crypto-linked payments. Its EPOS Crypto Card allows users to settle monthly bills with bitcoin balances and offers 0.5% cashback in crypto.
