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CryptoMediumUpdated×4•Originally published 1 May 2026•Updated 3 May 2026•

1 min read

SBI Holdings Eyes Bitbank Acquisition to Bolster Digital Asset Ecosystem

Key Facts

1Tokyo-based SBI Holdings is in talks to acquire a stake in crypto exchange Bitbank with the aim of making it a subsidiary.

2SBI plans to expand in Singapore and has partnered with Visa for bank cards that allow users to accumulate digital assets.

about 1 month ago

Version History

Version 4about 1 month ago

What changed: The acquisition status progressed from general talks to the submission of a formal Letter of Intent (LOI) by SBI Holdings.

Version 3about 1 month ago

What changed: Update confirms the official launch of crypto reward cards with Visa and specifies XRP, BTC, and ETH as the supported assets.

Version 2about 1 month ago

What changed: The story was updated to highlight SBI's role as a Ripple partner in the context of the Bitbank acquisition plans.

Version 1about 1 month ago

What changed: Updated the status to reflect that talks have moved to a formal alliance stage and noted Bitbank's position as the third-largest exchange in Japan.

SBI Holdings, a key strategic partner of Ripple, has taken a decisive step toward acquiring Bitbank by submitting a formal Letter of Intent (LOI). This progression moves the group closer to integrating Japan's third-largest cryptocurrency exchange as a subsidiary, solidifying its position in the digital asset space. The development coincides with the launch of SBI-Visa credit cards, which allow users to earn rewards in XRP, BTC, and ETH through daily transactions. By formalizing its intent, SBI underscores its commitment to merging traditional financial infrastructure with blockchain ecosystems. The submission of the LOI is expected to accelerate the acquisition process, significantly boosting institutional trust and market liquidity. This move highlights the intensifying trend of major financial institutions scaling their crypto-related operations.