Sanjeev Moghe, President & Head of Cards & Payments at Axis Bank, shares his insights on the evolution of credit cards in India. He discusses the surge in credit card usage during festive seasons and the growing popularity of co-branded cards with e-commerce giants. Sanjeev elaborates on the challenges posed by regulatory changes and credit card delinquencies. He also provides valuable tips for effective credit card management and highlights the importance of reward programs, ensuring consumers make the most of their credit card experiences.
The evolution of credit cards has transformed them into secure and user-friendly financial tools, attracting a diverse range of consumers.
Responsible credit card usage is crucial for maintaining financial health and stability in an expanding market, emphasizing informed borrowing practices.
Deep dives
Evolution of Credit Cards
The evolution of credit cards over the past two decades showcases significant advancements in technology and consumer security. Initially, credit cards were primarily characterized by their physical form, such as silver, gold, or platinum designs, and relied on impractical methods like slug machines for transactions. With the introduction of Electronic Data Capture (EDC) and the shift to chip and pin technology, transactions became not only faster but also more secure, minimizing the risks associated with card duplication and fraud. These changes have transformed credit cards into essential financial tools that are now safer and more user-friendly, attracting a broader audience and changing the landscape of consumer behavior.
Diverse Credit Card Offerings
Today, there is a wide array of credit cards catering to different consumer segments, categorized primarily into proprietary and co-brand cards. Proprietary cards are issued directly by banks, such as Axis Bank's own range of cards like NIO and Magnus, which offer varying benefits based on consumer spending habits. In contrast, co-brand cards are partnerships between banks and retailers or service providers, providing specific perks for spending with those partners, such as enhanced rewards at certain stores or for particular services. This diversity allows consumers to choose credit cards that best align with their spending preferences and lifestyle, encouraging greater utilization of credit.
The Impact of Reward Points
Reward points have become a central feature in the appeal of credit cards, encouraging consumer engagement through attractive incentives for spending. Unlike cash transactions, credit cards uniquely offer benefits where consumers earn points for purchases, which can be redeemed for various rewards, including travel and shopping discounts. This system motivates consumers to use credit cards for a broader range of expenses, including utility payments and insurance premiums, even prompting some individuals to exploit the system for additional rewards through excessive purchasing. As a result, banks and credit card providers are continually adapting their programs to maintain profitability while addressing risks associated with abuse and ensuring that rewards remain attractive to genuine consumers.
Responsible Credit Card Use and Trends
As the market for credit cards expands, responsible usage remains crucial for both consumer health and industry stability. Trends indicate that while the number of new credit card holders is rising, the overall credit culture in India appears to be becoming more aware of responsible borrowing practices. Consumers are encouraged to manage their credit wisely by understanding billing cycles, maintaining payment schedules, and utilizing rewards effectively without overspending. With ongoing regulatory oversight aiming to mitigate risks associated with unsecured lending, the industry is focused on fostering a healthy credit ecosystem that benefits both consumers and financial institutions.
Join us in this insightful episode as Anupam sits down with Sanjeev Moghe, President & Head of Cards & Payments at Axis Bank, to explore the dynamic evolution of credit cards. We delve into the transformation of credit card products over the years, the variety of cards available today, and the nuances of credit card rewards and their evolution. Sanjeev shares his expert perspective on the surge of credit card usage during festive sales, the rise of co-branded cards with online partners like Flipkart and Swiggy, and the impact of RBI's regulations on unsecured lending. We also discuss credit card delinquencies in India and offer practical advice on managing credit cards effectively, including the ideal number to hold.
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