SMCC launches global airline points transfer platform in partnership with Ascenda

SINGAPORE,March 11,2019 -- Sumitomo Mitsui Card Co. Ltd. (SMCC),one of the largest card issuers in Japan,and Ascenda,a global end-to-end loyalty solutions provider,today announced a partnership to connect SMCC's rewards program to global loyalty programs.

SMCC has joined Ascenda's market-leading loyalty currency exchange network,TransferConnect,to improve customer satisfaction by expanding their points transfer options. World Present program members are now able to transfer their pointstoadditional international airline loyalty currencies.SMCC believes this new program will help differentiate their loyalty program in the eyes of their customers.

"We are pleased that SMCC has chosen Ascenda as the strategic partner to help launch innovative global offerings for their members," said Ascenda CEO Kyle Armstrong,"For affluent customers who travel globally,the choice and value being offered on our currency exchange network is unmatched. We look forward to helping SMCC achieve their ambitious global growth plans."

About Ascenda

Ascenda is a global provider of innovative loyalty solutions and operates premium rewards propositions for major financial services and travel brands worldwide.

As a trusted partner empowering over 70 of the world's leading rewards programs,Ascenda develops end-to-end solutions to address the most meaningful challenges facing the loyalty industry today.

By deeply profiling local market needs to provide the right technology,content and value propositions alongside careful management of marketing,servicing,costs,and fraud,Ascenda delivers highly compelling and beautifully simple plug & play offerings that eliminate the trade-off between cost andcustomer value.

For more information about Ascenda (formerly Kaligo Solutions),please visit www.ascendaloyalty.com.

About SMCC

Since its inception in 1967,Sumitomo Mitsui Card has driven Japan's credit card industry for a half century,initially as the pioneer for Visa in Japan,and then as the total payments business operator leading cashless transactions. Through alliances with fintech enterprises within and outside Japan,providing the latest merchant solutions that promote inbound tourism and regional development,and launching issuance of prepaid cards that work around the world,the company is actively promoting product development that supports diversifying customer needs,and the structuring of new business models that meet the changes in time.

Media Contact:

Valerie Perridon

valerie.perridon@ascendaloyalty.com