Do you know the difference between Visa, Mastercard and American Express (Amex) cards? While they may seem similar on the surface, each offers unique benefits and features that’ll leave you pleasantly surprised. You’ll want to take full advantage of all the perks your card can deliver, so visit them online to see what the different brands have to offer.
 

Visa and Mastercard

Visa and Mastercard are the 2 biggest players in the global bank card industry. These giants offer a diverse array of debit and credit cards, catering to the needs of individuals, businesses and even governments. They also offer a wide variety of promotions and discounts – you can explore them all on their respective websites.

With Mastercard, you can enjoy discounts on travel and hotel stays, and lifestyle and shopping benefits. On the other hand, Visa cardholders can take advantage of savings on online short courses, car rentals and floral delivery services. These promotions are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the many benefits available.

Visa and Mastercard both offer peace of mind with zero-liability protection against fraudulent purchases. And since both cards are widely accepted globally, you’ll enjoy the benefits of your card wherever you go.
 

American Express

Amex is well known around the world for its benefits and has been a hot topic on social media. In South Africa the brand has partnered with a range of businesses to offer exclusive deals that go beyond simple credit card protection.         

With the American Express Gold Credit Card, cardholders get automatic enrolment to Amex’s Membership Rewards Programme, the opportunity to earn monthly Avo vouchers, exclusive seasonal offers at partnered merchants, and access to domestic airport lounges. And if you spend R10,000 in the first 3 months, you’ll earn 5,000 bonus points. 

The American Express Platinum Credit Card takes things up a notch by offering cardholders a welcome bonus of 30,000 points, accelerated 1.5X Membership Rewards points on everyday spending, and unlimited access to domestic and international airport lounges. There is also the added benefit of private invitation, airline and hotel upgrades, and access to discounts exclusive brands, streaming services, movie and dining experiences. With so many benefits, it’s easy to see why Amex is a popular choice among those who value premium perks and rewards.

Amex cardmembers can use their points as cash. You can also use the Membership Rewards Card to pay with points at any Amex-accepting merchant around the world, with points converted to the local currency at the point of sale, or even withdraw points as cash at any ATM.
 

Shop and save

Consider what you need to use a card for when choosing the right card for your needs. Do you want a simple, no-frills card that gives you cashback on purchases, or would you rather have a premium credit card loaded with extra benefits? With a basic Mastercard or Visa card, you can enjoy cash back and shopping vouchers. In contrast, a premium credit card like American Express will offer travel insurance, 24-hour concierge services and access to airport lounges. It all comes down to what you're looking for in a card.

But whatever card you choose, be sure to visit the relevant Visa, Mastercard or Amex site regularly to see what promotions or benefits are on offer. It’s time to start maximising the benefits of your bank card and make every cent count.