Chinese Banks and Telecoms Monetize AI Tokens Through Rewards and Loans
Innovative programs turn AI tokens into consumer rewards and business lending tools.
1AI Tokens as Consumer Products
Chinese banks, telecom carriers, and a district government are packaging AI tokens into consumer products like credit card rewards, monthly plans, and business loans. These tokens, which represent units of AI computing, are being marketed to ordinary customers and small businesses. This approach transforms AI usage into a billable commodity, similar to airline miles or mobile data.
2Kimi and Agricultural Bank Collaboration
Moonshot AI’s Kimi and Agricultural Bank of China launched an AI-native credit card, available only in mainland China. The card offers rewards like NFC plush charms and monthly memberships for spending thresholds. For example, spending RMB 5,888 within three months earns a premium gift, limited to 1,000 recipients. The card integrates Kimi membership and AI benefits into its system.
3Membership Tiers and Benefits
The Kimi credit card offers two membership tiers: Andante and Allegretto. Andante includes Office file processing, deep research, and website deployment quotas. Allegretto, aimed at professionals, offers four times the agent quota and 20 times the Kimi Code quota. These memberships enhance user experience with AI-driven tasks and tools, making the card a comprehensive AI solution.
4China Telecom’s Token Packages
China Telecom introduced trial token packages on May 17, targeting developers, small businesses, and households. Individual customers receive the Xingchen model and DeepSeek V3.2, while developers also get GLM5. The entry-tier package costs RMB 9.9 per month for 10 million tokens, making AI accessible to a broader audience.
5Tianyi Token Loyalty Program
China Telecom plans to launch the Tianyi Token, allowing loyalty points to be redeemed for token packages. Managed through TokenHub, this program aims to integrate AI tokens into everyday consumer activities. This initiative reflects a broader trend of embedding AI into consumer rewards and loyalty systems.
6Haizhu District’s Token Loan
The Haizhu district of Guangzhou introduced a Token Loan in August, supported by eight measures. Banks now evaluate AI companies based on token consumption and platform qualifications rather than traditional assets. Bank of China’s Guangzhou branch can set credit limits based on a company’s token usage, revolutionizing lending practices.
7Token Pricing Across Languages
Token pricing varies significantly across languages. For example, English uses 1.23 tokens per word, while Greek and Maltese use about 3.1. This disparity means the same token bundle offers different service amounts depending on the language. This complexity highlights the challenges in standardizing AI token usage globally.
8Implications for AI Monetization
These programs mark a significant shift in AI monetization, turning tokens into tangible consumer rewards and lending tools. By embedding AI into everyday financial products, Chinese institutions are pioneering new ways to integrate AI into consumer and business ecosystems, setting a precedent for global AI adoption.
Original article: Unite.AI — Chinese Banks and Telecoms Monetize AI Tokens Through Rewards and Loans