SBI Holdings, one of Ripple’s longest-standing financial partners, is preparing to introduce a new cryptocurrency rewards program that will allow bank customers to earn Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and XRP through traditional deposit accounts.
The initiative will be launched through SBI Shinsei Bank and marks another significant step in the integration of digital assets into mainstream financial services in Japan.
SBI Holdings Expands Crypto Rewards Offering
According to local reports, the new rewards program is expected to launch during the autumn of 2026, between September and November. Under the initiative, customers will receive crypto-linked vouchers based on the interest generated from their fiat currency deposits.
The value of the rewards is expected to represent approximately 20% of the interest earned on eligible deposits. Customers will then be able to convert those vouchers into Bitcoin, Ethereum, or XRP during a designated redemption period.
The final amount of cryptocurrency received will depend on prevailing market prices at the time of conversion.
Traditional Banking Meets Digital Assets
The program represents a rare move within the traditional banking industry, where cryptocurrency-based rewards remain relatively uncommon. By combining conventional savings products with digital asset incentives, SBI aims to attract both existing banking customers and crypto-focused investors.
To support the rollout, the company has already established the infrastructure necessary to facilitate cryptocurrency conversions and reward distribution.
The initiative also aligns with SBI Holdings’ broader strategy of strengthening its position within the rapidly growing digital asset sector.
Strong Relationship Between SBI and Ripple
SBI Holdings has maintained a close partnership with Ripple for many years and remains one of the company’s most influential financial allies in Asia.
The Japanese financial giant has actively supported numerous projects involving XRP and the XRP Ledger ecosystem. Through its various subsidiaries, SBI has consistently promoted blockchain adoption and cross-border payment solutions powered by Ripple technology.
As a result, XRP’s inclusion in the new rewards program comes as little surprise to market participants familiar with the long-standing relationship between the two companies.
SBI Expands Beyond XRP Into Solana and AI
The crypto rewards initiative follows several other strategic moves by SBI Holdings aimed at expanding its digital asset footprint.
Recently, the company’s SBI VC Trade subsidiary introduced institutional services related to Solana, including trading, custody, and asset management solutions. The expansion reflects growing institutional demand for diversified cryptocurrency exposure beyond Bitcoin and Ethereum.
At the same time, SBI has also increased its focus on artificial intelligence. The company recently partnered with AI startup Anthropic to deploy Claude AI technology across various business operations.
The collaboration gained additional attention after reports emerged that Anthropic had confidentially filed IPO-related documentation with U.S. regulators.
Crypto Adoption Continues to Grow in Japan
The launch of cryptocurrency-based deposit rewards highlights the increasing convergence between traditional finance and digital assets. As major financial institutions continue exploring blockchain technology and crypto services, Japan remains one of the most active markets for innovation in the sector.
With support for Bitcoin, Ethereum, and XRP, SBI Holdings is positioning itself at the forefront of this evolving trend while strengthening its influence across both banking and cryptocurrency markets.
