Credit card companies earn money through various revenue streams, including:
1. Interest Charges: When cardholders carry a balance from month to month, they are charged interest on the outstanding amount. This is a significant source of revenue for credit card companies.
2. Annual Fees: Many credit cards charge an annual fee for card membership. These fees can vary widely depending on the card's benefits and features.
3. Merchant Fees: Credit card companies charge merchants a fee for processing credit card transactions. This fee is typically a percentage of the transaction amount and a flat fee per transaction.
4. Interchange Fees: These are fees paid by the merchant's bank to the cardholder's bank (issuing bank) for each transaction. The cardholder's bank, in turn, shares a portion of this fee with the credit card company.
5. Late Payment Fees: When cardholders don't make their payments on time, they are charged late fees. These fees contribute to the credit card company's revenue.
6. Cash Advance Fees: Credit card companies often charge fees for cash advances, which are loans taken against the credit limit.
7. Foreign Transaction Fees: These fees are applied when cardholders make purchases in foreign currencies or outside their home country.
8. Balance Transfer Fees: Some credit cards charge fees when cardholders transfer a balance from one card to another.
9. Overlimit Fees: If cardholders exceed their credit limit, they may be charged overlimit fees.
10. Currency Conversion Fees: When cardholders make transactions in a currency different from the one their card is denominated in, currency conversion fees may apply.
11. Credit Insurance: Some credit card companies offer credit insurance products for a fee, providing coverage in case the cardholder can't make payments due to specific circumstances like illness or job loss.
12. Rewards Programs: Credit card companies encourage card usage by offering rewards like cashback, points, or miles. While they may not directly earn revenue from this, the increased card usage benefits them due to interchange fees and interest charges.
Overall, credit card companies generate revenue from a combination of interest, fees, and transaction-related charges, making it a profitable industry.
What are charges of credit card in India
Credit card charges in India can vary depending on the issuing bank or financial institution. Common credit card charges in India may include:
1. Annual Fee: This is a yearly fee that credit cardholders are required to pay for using the card. Some cards may offer a waiver of the annual fee if you meet certain spending criteria.
2. Joining Fee: Some credit cards may have an initial joining fee, which is a one-time charge when you first get the card.
3. Interest Charges: If you don't pay your credit card bill in full by the due date, you'll be charged interest on the outstanding balance. The interest rate is typically stated as an annual percentage rate (APR).
4. Late Payment Fee: If you don't make at least the minimum payment by the due date, you'll incur a late payment fee.
5. Overlimit Fee: If you exceed your credit limit, you may be charged an overlimit fee.
6. Cash Advance Fee: When you withdraw cash from an ATM using your credit card, you'll be charged a cash advance fee. Additionally, interest on cash advances is typically higher and may start accruing immediately.
7. Foreign Transaction Fee: If you use your credit card for transactions in foreign currencies or while abroad, you may incur a foreign transaction fee.
8. Replacement Card Fee: If you lose your credit card and need a replacement, you might be charged a fee for the new card.
9. Annual Percentage Rate (APR): The APR is the interest rate you'll pay on any outstanding balances if you don't pay your bill in full each month. This rate can vary significantly among different credit cards and may be different for purchases, cash advances, and balance transfers.
10. Balance Transfer Fee: If you transfer a balance from one credit card to another, you may be charged a balance transfer fee.
It's essential to read the terms and conditions provided by your credit card issuer to understand the specific charges and fees associated with your credit card. Additionally, be aware that different credit cards may have different reward programs, benefits, and eligibility criteria, so it's important to choose a card that aligns with your financial needs and spending habits.