SBI Ripple Asia has joined forces with Tobu Top Tours to create closed-loop payment systems. The collaboration will produce unique tokens for various destinations and brands, linking spending power with digital fan engagement and tailored travel experiences.
Summary
- SBI Ripple Asia and Tobu Top Tours have signed a memorandum of understanding to initiate a tokenized payment platform
- Custom tokens on the XRP Ledger aim to bolster travel, retail, and fan economies
- Service rollout is planned for the first half of 2026
An announcement made on Sept. 30 reveals that the two Japanese companies have formalized their intent to launch a new payment platform. As part of this agreement, SBI Ripple Asia will create proprietary tokens on the XRP Ledger, each designed for specific partner companies and organizations.
Tobu Top Tours, a prominent player in the travel and tourism sector, will utilize its industry position to onboard partners, establish a network of affiliated stores, and initiate marketing strategies with NFTs linked to these newly created tokens. The firms aim for a service launch in the first half of 2026.
Tourism, fan economies, and additional applications
The memorandum highlights a variety of applications that extend beyond theoretical frameworks. In the tourism sector, the platform plans to issue tokens geographically restricted to certain destinations, serving as a digital currency for entire towns or shopping districts.
SBI Ripple Asia mentioned that this would enhance the cashless experience for travelers and keep tourist spending within the local economy. Importantly, transactions could be combined with NFTs that serve as digital mementos or discount vouchers, thereby linking one-time visits to ongoing engagement.
The model also introduces a unique strategy for disaster relief and local assistance. According to the companies, donations could be issued as tokens that can only be spent in the affected area, ensuring that financial support directly benefits local businesses like restaurants and shops. This prevents aid from being diverted to national chains or online retailers, providing a clear and focused way to support grassroots economic recovery.
Additionally, the platform is designed to cater to the fan economy. Sports teams, artists, and cultural organizations could introduce their own branded tokens. These would be utilized for merchandise and concessions, while NFTs serve as programmable membership cards. The system could offer special experiences or rewards based on fan spending, creating a vibrant new revenue source and strengthening loyalty.
