Posts Tagged ‘credit card designs’

The new Current Card from Discover is one of many financial solutions aimed at the teen and young adult market. This particular tool is a debit card that offers an unprecedented level of control for parents, while helping teenagers learn how to manage their finances before they step foot in the “real world.”

Unlike credit cards, the Current Card allows teens and parents to load it with whatever cash they feel is appropriate. Once they have put cash on the card, parents can set parental controls on how their teenagers can use the card as well as where they can use it.

Loading the Card

The Current Card from Discover is different from most teen credit cards in that the amount available to use for purchases and withdrawals is established by how much is deposited into the account. For example, if a teenager’s parents load it with $500, he or she cannot spend more than $500. In other words, it works like debit cards do when attached to savings or checking accounts.

The Current Card can be loaded for free from any bank account or credit card. It is even possible for parents to establish recurring deposits, such as $200 per month from a credit card. There are no minimum balances, loading fees or credit checks required with this card.

Free direct deposit is also available for this teen debit card if it is more appropriate. For example, teens with summer or after-school jobs can have their paychecks deposited directly into their Current Card accounts.

Setting Limits

The most unique feature of the Current Card from Discover is the ability to set myriad parental controls so parents can monitor and control their teenagers’ spending habits. The available controls include:

• Spending Limits:
  Parents can decide how much money their teenagers can spend in a given period of time. If the teen tries to exceed that limit, the card is declined.
• Shopping Categories:
  With cash or other teen credit cards, teenagers can spend their money wherever they wish. This isn’t the case with the Current Card, as parents can restrict certain shopping categories, such as tobacco or liquor stores or hotels.
• Activity Alerts:
  In addition to letting parents decide how teens will use the Current Card, this card also informs parents of purchases and withdrawals. Messages can be sent via text message or e-mail.

Other Perks

The Current Card comes with the same convenient perks you might expect to find in other teen credit cards, such as no liability for fraudulent purchases. Card holders can withdraw cash from the card at any ATM if they are unable to use the card itself, and the card also comes with exclusive discounts at many favorite teen shopping destinations.

There are seven available designs for the Current Card from Discover, which makes it particularly attractive to the younger market. Teens can not only learn to manage their finances, but do it with a sense of style.

Steve Thompson

The Pantone Fall 2009 report takes the most fashionable colors of the season and interprets them for the world of print advertising. But it’s not only fashion and graphic designers who are taking note. This season’s top credit and debit cards are stylish, fashionable and functional - we’re staying economically wise by only rating prepaid debit cards. Here’s a roundup of the top five credit (debit) card designs for fall 2009:

#5: MetroPCS Prepaid Visa Card

The MetroPCS Prepaid Visa Card is a bold, two-color card designed with purple and “burnt sienna” from this season’s Pantone report. It’s a simple, eye-catching design that can be a good match for both male and female card holders.

#4: AccountNow Prepaid MasterCard

The futuristic design of the AccountNow Prepaid MasterCard may be a good fit for the tech-savvy cardholder looking for an edgy, fashion-forward look. The color combination on this card includes “majolica blue” from the Pantone color lineup that inspires “a sense of smoky calmness.” This card has a combination of blues, grays and black that may be a good match for both male and female cardholders.

#3: Facecard Prepaid MasterCard

“Warm olive” is a popular color for fall 2009, and the Facecard Prepaid MasterCard is a single-color credit card designed in this simple, eye-catching color. The light green tone can be a good match for both male and female cardholders.

#2: BabyPhat

For cardholders interested in a celebrity-inspired design, the BabyPhat card offers plenty of style with its slinky BabyPhat feline logo and its famous BabyPhat pink hue that has been named “rapture rose” on this fall’s Pantone color report. The card will help you make a bold fashion statement during any shopping trip, and can be a stylish addition to any fashionista’s wallet.

#1: Current by Discover

Current by Discover is designed exclusively for teens and their parents, and cardholders can choose from one of seven attractive designs. Parents have the freedom of setting spending limits and restricting use in unwanted shopping categories, but teens can choose from a variety of stylish designs that best suite their personality. Design choices include a pink skull and crossbones, dance club scene, blue and white stripes, silver eagle wing or goth design, green and white skull and crossbones, a rainbow retro look and a cityscape.

Credit card companies are bringing us some fresh and stylish designs to dress up our wallets and to show off our sense of style this season. From celebrity-inspired cards to simple, sophisticated designs, cardholders of all ages can choose from a variety of fresh new styles for fall 2009.

Sabah Karimi

The latest fashion accessory for the jet-setter and VIP shopper isn’t a flashy wallet or a designer handbag, but a wallet full of exclusive credit cards. Titanium cards, gold cards and credit cards made with diamonds appeal to the luxury market that meet certain eligibility requirements. With the help of a Korean card maker, several international banks have raised the bar for what an exclusive credit card looks like. Here’s a close look at some of the leading luxe credit cards available to the upper echelons of society.

GK Power Concept Cards

The concept cards from GK Power are the ultimate show-stoppers. The company holds an exclusive patent on gold, diamond and implant card technologies. These exclusive credit cards are designed only for the most affluent clients and feature a glossy black print, metal membrane laminate and diamonds embedded into the design. Among their clientele’s products are:

Dubai First Royale Diamond-Studded Mastercard

Available only in Dubai, the Diamond-Studded Mastercard is a stylish all-black card with a gold metal border, and is finished with a large solitaire diamond embedded in the middle of the card. Dubai First issues the exclusive credit card by invitation only, and recipients are selected from the elite class of the business and social community of the city. Card holders must meet both income and status requirements. Only nine cards are produced in a day, and each one is made partially by hand. And the perks? Personalized services on yacht charters, restaurants and hospitality brands around the world, as well as insider information on area events.

KTC - Royal Orchid Plus World MasterCard

KTC, cooperating with MasterCard and Thai Airways International, issued the 1st Diamond and Gold Credit Card in Thailand, making it 3rd in the world after Dubai and Korea. The KTC - Royal Orchid Plus World MasterCard is embedded with a .06-carat diamond. To draw big spenders to spend big, a “Dream Excursion” was awarded to the first 20 customers with the highest expenditures. Consisting of a tailored traveling package with net worth of nearly 3 million Baht (or a little over $88,000), this package ended in February 2009. Estimating its card base will reach 500, this exclusive card is by invitation only.

Eurasian Bank Diamond Card

The Visa Infinite card is among the most sought-after exclusive credit cards on the market and is distributed by Eurasian Bank, an elite bank in Kazakhstan. The card is embedded with a .02-carat diamond and an intricate gold heart design around it. It’s an all-black card with plenty of purchasing power, and cardholders must earn an income of at least $300,000 to own one. Cardholder benefits include insurance benefits at no cost, 1 percent cash back towards purchases, no-cost airport travel lounge access and 24/7 concierge services.

If you’re making an annual income of at least $300,000, have good credit and own some holdings in the issuing countries, you might be eligible for one of these exclusive credit cards. From gold cards to titanium cards, exclusive credit cards are both a status symbol and fashion statement for the world’s elite. If your lifestyle demands exclusive access to VIP events, personalized services when you travel and free upgrades at the world’s finest hotels, you may be a good candidate for carrying any of these diamond-embedded or gold cards.

Sabah Karimi

Exclusive credit cards exist in many countries. However, one of the world’s most elusive cards is offered by Coutts & Co (a.k.a The Queen’s Bank), the private banking adjunct of the Royal Bank of Scotland. Only a select few have this card, and it’s no easy task to acquire.

One of England’s premier private banks, Coutts & Co. caters to the needs of the United Kingdoms most affluent citizens. With a rich history that predates the formation of the USA, Coutts & Co. is no stranger to servicing the elite of the Western world. In fact, Coutts & Co. is the issuer of one of the world’s most exclusive credit cards: The Coutts World Card MasterCard.

One of the most exclusive credit cards

Perhaps all you need to know is that the Queen of England proudly carries this World Card MasterCard. The World Card is strictly available by invitation only. In fact, if you are not a Coutts private banking customer, your name will never be in the pool to receive an invitation for this exclusive credit card. Not only do you have to be a client of Coutts, but also you must have at least 1 million pounds in assets, or roughly $2 million US dollars.

The elegant look of this credit card comes from British tailor Ozwald Boateng. World renown, and possessing celebrity clientele, he was commissioned by Coutts in 2004 to design the super-premium credit card. Boateng discarded the typical World Card branding and used modern elements, like his trademark purple, to craft a unique and elegant way to spend…royally.

Concierge service to satisfy the most discerning tastes

One of the perks of the exclusive World Card is its 24-hour concierge service. Cardholders have a team of multi-lingual specialists to assist them with requests such as hotel reservations, event tickets, travel information and interpretation services. The concierge service can also hook clients up with last minute services such as shopping, tailoring, chartering a yacht, selecting personal staff, even with hiring a nanny. What more could anyone ask for?

Fees do apply with the World Card

Even one of the world’s most exclusive credit cards is not without its fees: 350 pounds/$700 annually. Coutts advertises that this fee is waived when certain conditions are met. On the fees page, it says this fee will be refunded if a client spends $100,000 annually using the card. (Remember it always pays to read the fine print.) Outstanding balances must be paid within 15 days of receiving the statement or a 2 percent late payment charge will be assessed. If a card is going to give one as much as Coutts’ World Card, lines have to be drawn someplace.

ShawnTe Pierce

For years, American Express ran a series of “membership has its privileges” commercials, which were intended to show potential cardholders the benefits of having one of its cards in your wallet. As much as the company likes to advertise and use celebrity endorsements, American Express keeps most details about its mysterious “black card” hidden from the general public.

Urban Legends Make the Black Credit Card Real

On one episode of the television sitcom “Frasier,” Niles Crane and his radio psychologist brother kept trying to reach the most exclusive levels of a new local day spa, which had became the stuff of legend among Seattle’s movers and shakers. Frasier and Niles would not be satisfied until they were eligible for every perk the spa had to offer.

American Express credit cards have always had the same allure as that Seattle spa, so much so that rumors about an ultra-elite American Express credit card began circulating during the 1980s. Waving that piece of black plastic around allegedly could give the über-rich unlimited access to secret floors at major department stores and tickets to sold-out concerts.

The mystique surrounding the American Express black credit card became so great, in fact, that the myth finally became reality. In 1999, the company unveiled its new Centurion card, according to the marketing blog Branding Strategy Insider. Named in honor of the company’s corporate logo, American Express made the black credit card so exclusive that only a select few are invited to apply for one.

Benefits of the Black Credit Card

A call to the American Express media relations department about the Centurion card was not returned, but a few hours of Web surfing uncovered some fairly consistent details:

• The black credit card is made of anodized titanium, according to AdSavvy.org, which makes it heavier than the average credit card.
• Unlike other American Express products, you have to be invited by the company to apply for the black credit card. To even be considered for membership, you must have a near-perfect credit history and spend at least $250,000 per year on an existing American Express Platinum or Gold card.
• American Express charges a one-time membership fee of $5,000 for the black credit card, followed by an annual fee of $2,500, according to BlackCardSource.com. You also have to have the financial credentials to show that you can afford to spend a quarter of a million dollars each year.

Besides the prestige of carrying a titanium card in your wallet, American Express offers several benefits and perks for those who carry the black credit card, according to BlackCardSource.com, including:

• A personal concierge and travel agent. The company offers similar benefits to American Express Platinum cardholders, but these personal assistants are reportedly the best of the best customer service agents in the company.
• Automatic first-class upgrades and companion seats on several airlines.
• Personal shoppers at the finest stores in the world.
• After-hours access to shops.
• Membership points that can be redeemed at upscale merchants.
• Thank-you gifts from American Express such as digital cameras and expensive gift cards.

Keeping Company with the Centurion

Despite its exclusive nature, the American Express black credit card has become a part of popular culture. Britney Spears casually mentioned giving it to her then-husband Kevin Federline in 2006. Singer Kanye West even refers to it as “African American Express” in his song “Last Call.”

The American Express black credit card is only one of several credit cards for those with impressive financial resources. Competitors also offer exclusive black cards, but few can achieve the aura that surrounds the Centurion card.

Steven Bryan

People seem to be customizing everything these days. There are skins for cell phones, iPods, laptops, and so much more. Why not credit cards, too? For many, their credit card may be the most-used possession they have. Some may feel that if it’s going to be used often, it might as well reflect who they are.

Custom credit cards

Credit card companies understand that consumers like the idea, so many offer custom credit cards and credit card designs. Discover’s More card has multiple custom image options, for both consumer and student credit cards:

• The Wildlife credit card features images such as an eagle, wolf, horse and more
• The Sealife credit card’s options include a shark, dolfin, turtle, clown fish and others
• The Monogram credit card displays the cardholder’s initials (or any three letters) and a choice of several stylishly colored backgrounds: girly pink, lime green, elegant black and many more

Capital One’s Card Lab also allows consumers to choose custom credit card images and designs. In fact, just about any photo that you’ve taken — everything from that of a pet to one of your children — can grace the front of your Capital One card.

Credit card designs

If your credit card company doesn’t offer custom credit cards or credit card designs, there still are ways to customize your credit card. CreditCovers.com provides credit card slipcovers, or “skins.” The skins come in a wide variety of credit card designs. Custom skins also can be created based on individual or business wants and needs. These custom credit card designs are easy to apply and easy to remove. The company promises that they are durable and won’t interfere with credit card usage. The only card it doesn’t seem to work with is a smart card — those credit cards that store credit information on a tiny computer chip.

Is it legal to customize credit cards?

Depending on the credit card company, there will be different guidelines to follow. Always remember to read the terms and conditions associated with your credit cards. As long as the credit card designs are not in violation of those terms, customizing credit cards should be perfectly fine.

Lyn Lomasi

A credit card’s design isn’t necessarily the most important factor when deciding what type of credit card to apply for, but a unique and attractive credit card is bound to get some attention at your next shopping adventure, business luncheon or night on the town.

Credit card companies are freshening up some of their top cards this season to unveil a lineup of stylish, personalized credit cards that do double duty as a payment option and a fashion accessory. Take your pick from any of these top credit card designs for Spring 2009.

Credit Card Design No. 5: EXACT Prepaid Card

Simplistic and minimalist style is the best way to describe the EXACT Prepaid card, a silver and gray card with black accents and a colorful logo on the front. The card is a versatile pick for 2009, but is under-designed; you won’t find any special features or unique accents with this one.

Credit Card Design No. 4: Discover Motiva

Spring 2009’s most fashionable colors are purple and orange, and the Discover Motiva card may be a good way to flaunt the trend. The card is designed in rich, royal purple with orange accents, complete with a contemporary swirl and dot background. It’s an attractive and stylish way to make the most of Discover’s cash back bonus — especially if the card matches your purse.

Credit Card Design No. 3: Baby Phat

If you’re a self-professed fashionista who loves to show off her playful side, pick up some Baby Phat plastic, a personalized credit card designed with the famous feline logo. It’s the card that ranks high on the celeb factor and is sure to be a talking point at the register. Plus, it’s pink.

Credit Card Design No. 2: Blue from Amex

It’s an American classic with a signature semi-transparent card face to give you that edgy, techie, futuristic feel. The Blue from American Express credit card is designed with a built-in smart chip that keeps track of all your spending habits and earns you rewards on every swipe. The Blue’s mesmerizing swirl design and sleek silver trim make this one a truly distinctive card.

Credit Card Design No. 1: Visa Black

Holding this exclusive card gives you a chance to enjoy 24-hour concierge services, priority access at airport lounges, and to shop at some of the world’s finest luxury boutiques and outlets. The Visa Black card is made with carbon graphite materials and designed with chic, 007-inspired black and silver accents. The ultimate in personalized credit cards, this one is designed to be shown off and to give you the opportunity to enjoy the luxurious lifestyle.

Sabah Karimi

If you are interested in carrying the best looking credit cards in your wallet, here’s your chance to see five of the most innovative credit card designs on the market today.

Fashion statements used to be made strictly by what clothes you wore or what purse or wallet you carried. Today, fashion statements also can be made by what you carry inside your wallet. Credit card designs range from basic single color options to elaborate works of art. Some cards even give you the option to create your own credit card design. If you are interested in carrying the best looking credit card in your wallet, then take a look at the top five credit card designs on the market today.

No. 5: PetRewards Platinum Plus Visa

If you love animals, then the PetRewards Platinum Plus Visa credit card has a design you will flip over. First, you can select from three very cute animal designs including “contented cat,” “loving pair” and “devoted dog.” Your second option is to upload an image of your pet to use as your credit card’s background design. This credit card offers you rewards that relate to animals such as vet services, pet food and even donations to your local animal shelter.

No. 4: Capital One Standard Platinum for Students

The Capital One Standard Platinum Credit Card for Students is a fashionably versatile credit card. First, you can select one of the great looking credit card designs offered by Capital One such as a bald eagle, a lightning strike, a mountain and water scene, a palm tree at sunset or a tropical island scene. If you want to personalize your credit card’s design, then you also have that option. After you get your card, you are given the opportunity to upload a photograph to your account and order a new card. This card has no annual fee, free fraud liability insurance and online access to your account.

No. 3: Discover Monogram

With the Discover Monogram credit card, you can choose between three brilliant fashion colors including Caribbean blue, flamingo pink and key lime green. This card not only looks great, but also it has a pretty great lineup of benefits and features such as no annual fee, super low regular APR and a fabulous cash back rewards program.

No. 2: Starwood from American Express

The Starwood from American Express credit card is simple and sleek. It features a very flattering red-and-silver design. It also offers you travel rewards, purchase protection, traveler’s insurance products and global hotline assistance. American Express also offers a Starwood business credit card version which boasts the same benefits and design.

No. 1: Personalized Maximum Rewards from First National Bank of Omaha

The number one credit card design is actually created by you. The Personalized Maximum Rewards credit card is one of many personalized credit cards from First National Bank that allow you to upload any graphic that you want to appear on your credit card. This is a Visa credit card that offers you a 6 month introductory 0 percent APR, a 1-point-per-$1 reward program, online access to your account and a complimentary zero liability protection policy.

Eisla Sebastian