SBI Group and Visa Launch Crypto Reward Card Offering Up to 10% in BTC, ETH, and XRP
Japanese financial giant SBI Group is introducing cryptocurrency rewards for everyday spending through a new Visa card that converts loyalty points into $BTC, $ETH, or $XRP. Under the promotional campaign, Gold‑tier users can receive rewards of up to 10%, while standard users may earn up to 2.5%.
Key Highlights
- SBI and Visa launched credit cards that automatically convert spending reward points into a user‑selected cryptocurrency ($BTC, $ETH, or $XRP).
- Gold‑tier users may earn up to 10% rewards, while standard cardholders can receive up to 2.5% during a limited‑time introductory campaign.
- Campaign rewards depend on spending levels accumulated through August 5, with reward caps applied to both card tiers.
Crypto Reward Cards Connect Spending and SBI Digital Assets
SBI Group, one of Japan’s largest financial conglomerates, announced on May 1, 2026, the launch of the SBI Visa Crypto Card and its Gold version. These cards automatically convert reward points earned through spending into a selected cryptocurrency asset — $BTC, $ETH, or $XRP. The product is designed to integrate everyday payments with crypto accumulation.
Applicants must select a single asset during registration, choosing between $BTC, $ETH, and $XRP. According to the company’s official announcement:
“When applying for this card, users may select one cryptocurrency for accumulation from three available options: Bitcoin ($BTC), Ethereum ($ETH), or $XRP.”
Once selected, reward points earned through card spending are automatically converted into the chosen asset each month without exchange fees. To receive rewards, users must maintain an account within SBI’s crypto‑asset service, although existing account holders are not required to open a new account. This structure creates a seamless link between spending and crypto accumulation.
The cards also support investing through SBI Securities’ recurring investment trust savings service linked to credit card payments. The company promoted the feature with the statement: “A first in Japan! Earn cryptocurrency through recurring investment trust savings using a credit card!” This functionality enables users to accumulate crypto assets alongside monthly investment contributions.
Rewards, Fees, and Campaign Structure
The two cards differ in base reward rates, annual fees, and additional benefits. Standard cardholders can earn up to 0.8% under normal conditions, while Gold users may receive up to 1.3%.
The standard card is free during the first year, after which it costs 1,650 yen annually. The fee is waived for users spending at least 100,000 yen annually. The Gold card is also free during the first year, followed by an annual fee of 6,600 yen. Gold users spending at least 2 million yen annually receive cryptocurrency rewards equal to the yearly fee.
Both cards include theft and loss protection, while the Gold version additionally provides travel accident insurance, purchase protection, and airport lounge access limited to three visits per year. These benefits apply independently of the promotional campaign.
The launch campaign applies to users who submit applications between May 1 and May 31, 2026. Spending accumulated through August 5 determines campaign rewards.
Standard users may earn up to 2.5% rewards capped at 1,500 points, while Gold users may receive up to 10% rewards capped at 5,000 points. The promotion temporarily raises reward rates above standard levels.
See also: "Banks and the cryptocurrency sector have reached an agreement on the CLARITY Act"
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