The global card continues to stand out as an excellent option for people who want to optimize their financial transactions during international travel in 2024.

However, before purchasing this product, it is essential to know its benefits, costs and the practicality it offers to customers.

So, to learn more about the global card, continue reading the article!

Global Card: what is it and how does it work?

Those who have already traveled internationally know that one of the main doubts is about money: should I take dollars or local currency? Should I pay in cash or by card?

For those who are preparing to travel to another country and are concerned about these issues, it is important to know about prepaid debit cards, also known as global cards.

This option works in a similar way to the old “Travel Money”, which lost some of its popularity after the IOF (Financial Transactions Tax) on credit cards increased to 6.38%. Currently, global prepaid cards offer a cheaper alternative, with an IOF of 1.1%, which makes them more attractive.

In practice, the global card works as a reloadable card, where users can add the foreign currency of their choice, mainly dollar, euro, and in some cases other currencies such as pound sterling and yen.

The main advantage of these cards is the possibility of making debit payments anywhere in the world, with more competitive rates, since they use the commercial exchange rate and have an IOF of only 1.1%, unlike credit cards.

In recent years, more Brazilian fintechs and digital banks have offered this service, often with additional benefits to attract new customers.

The best Global Card options in 2024

Wise

Wise, formerly known as TransferWise, remains one of the top options for those looking for a global card. To get the card, you need to open a multi-currency account through the app, in a digital format.

Wise's big difference is the ability to hold a balance in over 50 currencies, allowing travelers to pay directly in the local currency without the need for constant conversions. This can lead to significant savings, as the exchange rate used is the commercial one, with an IOF of just 1.1%.

Additionally, Wise charges a small conversion fee on transactions made in currencies not held in the account, which can vary depending on the currency and value of the transaction.

Nomad

Nomad has established its presence in the market as one of the most popular fintechs, especially for those looking for additional benefits such as cashback and discounts at partner stores. Since 2023, Nomad has also expanded its range of services, allowing users to make international investments directly from the account.

Another new feature is the possibility of making free withdrawals on the Allpoint network, available in several countries. In addition, Nomad customers can now benefit from loyalty programs such as Nomad Pass, which offers fee waivers and discounts.

Transactions are carried out at the commercial exchange rate and an IOF of 1.1%. The service fee may vary, reaching up to 2%, depending on the client's Nomad Pass level.

Global Card: BS2 GO! Platinum

BS2 GO! Platinum remains a strong alternative in the global card market, primarily due to the absence of issuance and maintenance fees. In 2024, the bank expanded its currency coverage, allowing users to transact in additional currencies such as the British pound.

To use the card, the client must maintain a minimum balance of USD 30 in the account. The card is linked to the Cirrus Network for withdrawals, with a cost of USD 5 per withdrawal.

Transactions use the commercial exchange rate and the IOF is kept at 1.1%. If the client transacts in currencies other than USD, an additional exchange rate of 2% is applied.

Global Card: C6 Bank Global Account

C6 Bank continues to offer its Global Account in Dollars and the Global Account in Euros, being one of the few options on the market focused on two main currencies.

One of the big draws of C6 Global is that for customers using Chase ATMs in the United States, withdrawals are fee-free. At other ATMs, the withdrawal fee is $5 or $5 EUR, depending on the account currency.

For transactions in currencies other than the currency of the Global Account, the bank charges a spread of 2% for the Global Account in Dollars and 2.5% for the Global Account in Euros. The IOF remains at 1.1%.

Conclusion

In 2024, the global card remains an excellent solution for those who want to optimize their financial transactions during international travel.

Before purchasing a global card, it is important to understand its costs and benefits, also considering the fees associated with the exchange rate and the IOF.

The most attractive options in Brazil currently include Wise, Nomad, BS2 GO! Platinum and C6 Bank, all offering advantages such as multiple currencies, commercial exchange rates and competitive fees, as well as benefits such as cashback and fee waivers on international withdrawals.

These alternatives are ideal for different types of travelers, providing convenience and savings during travel.