The vouchers can be redeemed for Bitcoin, Ethereum, and XRP through SBI VC Trade accounts. The bank will first conduct a three-month pilot beginning June 10, covering both savings and fixed-term deposit accounts. The initiative is part of SBI Group’s expansion into the digital asset sector, which includes investments in cryptocurrency exchanges, blockchain infrastructure, and stablecoin development. SBI Bank Launches Crypto Rewards SBI Shinsei Bank, the banking subsidiary of Japan’s financial giant SBI Group, is preparing to launch a new cryptocurrency rewards program to encourage traditional banking customers to explore digital assets. According to reports from Nikkei, the initiative is expected to begin this fall and will allow eligible depositors to earn vouchers linked to the interest generated from their bank deposits. Under the proposed program, customers will receive vouchers worth 20% of their deposit interest payments. These vouchers can then be redeemed for a selection of cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and XRP. To participate in the program, customers will be required to open an account with SBI VC Trade, the group’s cryptocurrency exchange platform. By connecting its banking and crypto businesses, SBI wants to introduce more mainstream customers to digital asset investing while also expanding the user base of its exchange operations. Ahead of the full rollout, SBI Shinsei Bank plans to conduct a three-month pilot program beginning on June 10. The trial will cover both ordinary savings accounts and fixed-term deposits with maturities ranging from three months to five years. Reports indicate that customers with a deposit of approximately 300,000 yen, equivalent to around $1,870, could earn vouchers worth roughly 500 yen. Meanwhile, high-net-worth customers holding deposits of 30 million yen or more could receive vouchers valued at around 20,000 yen. SBI Group has been strengthening its presence in the cryptocurrency and blockchain industries. Over the past few months, the company expanded its involvement across multiple areas of the digital asset ecosystem. SBI Holdings even recently entered preliminary discussions regarding the acquisition of shares in Bitbank, one of Japan’s largest domestic cryptocurrency exchanges. At the same time, SBI Securities has reportedly been working alongside Rakuten Securities on the development of cryptocurrency investment trusts designed for retail investors. (Source: Coinpost) Beyond investment products, SBI has also been active in blockchain infrastructure development. Earlier this year, the company partnered with Startale Group to build a blockchain network that is specifically designed for tokenized stocks and other on-chain financial assets. SBI also introduced JPYSC, a Japanese yen stablecoin backed by a trust bank structure.
