Things You Need To Know About Co-Branded Credit Cards

A credit card these days isn’t just as simple as a mode of payment anymore. With every bank offering a huge range of options, they are now being customised to meet our individual spending habits and personal interests. In fact, co-branded credit cards are becoming especially popular among emerging demographics in Malaysia.

Here, we delve deeper to understand more about these brand partnership cards and how they can suit your lifestyles.

What is it?

They are issued jointly by a credit card issuer and a well-known retailer, for example, cinemas, petrol companies, department stores or airlines.

Although card issuers have long offered reward programmes for their cards, the rewards or benefits often span very broad or general categories. Co-branded cards differ by offering rewards that are more specifically matched to niche interests or spending habits.

What do I get from it?

Most of them can be used just like any other credit facility cards. You can use them to swipe for payment, and you’ll still enjoy the kinds of rewards that conventional cards offer, such as point accumulation or rebates for your general purchases.

How brand partnership cards differ from conventional ones are the extra privileges that come with them such as, exclusive discounts, rewards or rebate programmes with the retailer the card is partnered with.

Example: If you own a Maybank Manchester United Visa, you’ll get much more reward points when you purchase Manchester United merchandise compared to a conventional card. Similarly, if you use a Shell co-branded card, you’ll enjoy exclusive cash rebates when you purchase fuel at Shell kiosks. The additional privileges you obtain from a co-branded card are generally exclusive and very specific.

Additionally, some also offer you non-monetary rewards such as priority access to clubs and shows, invitations to exclusive events and launches, or personalised concierge-type services at selected outlets.

What to look out for when signing up for one?

Before rushing off to sign up with one, take some time to assess your own spending habits and interests. Ask yourself:

• What is the largest proportion of your expenses?
• Where do you shop or spend your money at most frequently? Which brands are you most loyal to?
• What kind of benefits would you most prefer? (cash-back rebates, reward or gift programs, exclusive invitations to social events, etc.)

Don’t be distracted by the benefits offered by these cards. Check all other details as you would with any other credit card.

You might like to refer to this quick checklist of things you need to know when getting a credit card Malaysia or check our comparison table for the finer details.