Key Takeaways
- Crypto rewards offer tradable, stakeable tokens vs. traditional points.
- Fintech giants like Nubank and JPMorgan are driving adoption.
- Gamified perks boost user engagement and crypto awareness.
- Risks include volatility, regulation, and security concerns.
As cryptocurrencies become increasingly mainstream, more companies are integrating digital assets into loyalty programs, transforming how consumers earn and use rewards.
Crypto loyalty programs blend traditional perks with blockchain innovation, offering users new ways to engage and potentially benefit from the growing digital economy.
Below, discover four standout crypto loyalty programs launching or evolving in 2025, plus an overview of what crypto loyalty is, its benefits, and risks to watch out for.
What Are Crypto Loyalty Programs?
Crypto loyalty programs reward customers with digital assets like cryptocurrencies or blockchain-based tokens instead of or alongside traditional points or cashbacks. These programs often use blockchain’s transparency and security to track rewards and unlock new uses, such as trading, staking, or exchanging tokens.
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Unlike standard rewards, crypto loyalty can provide:
- Greater flexibility (e.g., tokens traded on exchanges).
- Potential for value appreciation.
- Increased user engagement with digital ecosystems.
4 Crypto Loyalty Programs To Watch in 2025
1. Nubank’s NuCoin Relationship Program (Brazil)
Nubank, Latin America’s largest digital bank, has relaunched its NuCoin loyalty program with a clear focus on customer engagement rather than speculation. The revamped program rewards users with blockchain-based NuCoins for everyday financial activities, transforming banking interactions into valuable digital asset opportunities.
- Rewards users for everyday banking actions such as credit/debit card usage, bill payments, Pix key registration, and sharing data via Open Finance.
- Shifts away from speculative trading to emphasize consistent user engagement and value.
- Users can redeem NuCoins for discounts, event tickets, and products from partners including Shopee, Magalu, and Amazon.
- Incorporates gamification in the app with features like “surprise chests,” themed quizzes, and flash offers to make earning rewards interactive and fun.
- Currently being rolled out to a select group of users as part of a phased launch.
2. JPMorgan Chase & Coinbase Partnership (USA)
In a landmark collaboration, JPMorgan Chase has partnered with Coinbase to bring cryptocurrency rewards directly into the hands of traditional banking customers. This integration enables Chase credit card users to convert their rewards points into a variety of popular cryptocurrencies, making digital asset investing more accessible than ever.
- Allows Chase credit card holders to convert Ultimate Rewards points to cryptocurrencies at a rate of 100 points per $1 worth of crypto.
- Enables Coinbase users to fund their accounts using Chase credit cards, streamlining the crypto purchase process.
- Opens the door for millions of Chase customers to explore crypto investing without leaving their familiar banking environment.
- Represents one of the largest moves by a traditional financial institution to merge credit card rewards with digital assets.
- Expected to roll out nationwide starting in fall 2025.
3. Mudrex Alpha Program (India)
Mudrex, a leading crypto investment platform, has upgraded its Alpha Program to offer some of the lowest crypto trading fees in India, along with tiered loyalty rewards. This program is designed to reward frequent traders and investors with financial incentives while enhancing overall platform experience.
- Introduces a six-tier rewards system that offers progressively better benefits based on trading volume and platform engagement.
- Reduces trading fees significantly, with rates as low as 0.03% for futures trading and 0.12% for spot trading.
- Additional perks include faster customer support, zero-fee INR withdrawals, and access to exclusive educational content.
- Encourages more active participation in crypto investing through tangible financial benefits.
- Supports growing demand for crypto trading in India by improving affordability and user loyalty.
4. Aplus x SBI VC Trade (Japan)
Japan’s Aplus, a major credit card issuer under the Shinsei Bank Group, has partnered with SBI VC Trade to launch the country’s first credit card loyalty program that directly converts reward points into cryptocurrencies . This initiative simplifies crypto investing for everyday consumers, bridging traditional banking rewards with the digital asset space.
- Enables cardholders to convert their credit card reward points into leading cryptocurrencies like XRP, Bitcoin (BTC), and Ethereum (ETH).
- Marks the first time a major Japanese credit card provider offers a direct pathway from points to crypto assets.
- Makes cryptocurrency accessible to a broader audience without requiring additional purchases or complicated setups.
- Supports Japan’s growing interest in crypto through seamless integration with established financial infrastructure.
- Encourages the adoption of digital assets by linking them to everyday spending habits.
Benefits of crypto loyalty programs
Crypto loyalty programs offer unique advantages compared to traditional rewards systems. They provide users with more flexibility, engagement opportunities, and a path to learn about digital assets while potentially increasing the value of their rewards.
- Enhanced flexibility and use cases: Crypto rewards can be traded, staked, or converted to other assets, unlike traditional points limited to specific platforms. This gives users more ways to maximize their value.
- Potential for appreciation: Unlike fixed-value rewards, crypto tokens can increase in value over time, offering users potential financial upside.
- Increased user engagement and gamification: Features like surprise chests, quizzes, and flash offers make earning rewards fun and interactive, encouraging more frequent use.
- Lower barriers to crypto adoption: Earning crypto through everyday activities introduces new users to digital assets in a simple, low-risk way, helping boost crypto literacy.
- Transparency and security: Blockchain technology offers tamper-proof records of rewards, reducing fraud and increasing trust.
Risks of crypto loyalty programs
Despite their benefits, crypto loyalty programs come with risks that users should carefully consider. These include financial, regulatory, and technical challenges that could impact the value or accessibility of rewards.
- Price volatility and uncertain value: Crypto rewards can fluctuate dramatically in value, potentially losing worth before users redeem them.
- Regulatory and compliance challenges: Changing laws around crypto can affect how rewards can be used or taxed, creating uncertainty for users.
- Speculation and misuse: Some users might treat loyalty tokens as speculative assets, leading to price volatility and program instability.
- Security concerns and technical complexity: Users unfamiliar with crypto wallets risk losing tokens or falling victim to scams if proper security measures aren’t followed.
- Liquidity and redemption limits: It can sometimes be hard or slow to convert crypto rewards back into cash or usable points, depending on the program.
- Program sustainability: If the underlying token or platform fails, rewards may become worthless or unusable.
Conclusion
Crypto loyalty programs represent a fresh way to reward customers by merging finance with blockchain technology. As seen with Nubank, JPMorgan Chase, Mudrex, and Aplus, these initiatives are shaping the future of rewards, making them more versatile and potentially lucrative.
However, understanding both the benefits and risks is key to navigating this exciting space confidently.
FAQs
Are crypto loyalty rewards taxable?
Tax treatment differs by jurisdiction and can depend on when you receive, convert, or spend crypto rewards. It’s important to consult local regulations or a tax professional to understand your obligations.
Can crypto loyalty tokens lose all their value?
Yes. Like any cryptocurrency, loyalty tokens can be subject to market volatility and, in worst cases, could become worthless if the issuing platform fails or discontinues the program.
What security precautions should I take when using crypto loyalty programs?
Users should safeguard wallet credentials, enable two-factor authentication, and avoid sharing sensitive information. Be wary of phishing scams and ensure you use official apps and platforms.
Disclaimer:
The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be, nor should it be construed as, financial advice. We do not make any warranties regarding the completeness, reliability, or accuracy of this information. All investments involve risk, and past performance does not guarantee future results. We recommend consulting a financial advisor before making any investment decisions.
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