How do credit card companies make money? | Explained in 3 minutes
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 Published On Jan 29, 2021

#CreditCards #BusinessModel #Profit #Banks #Lending #FinancialServices #RevenueStreams #CreditScoring #CreditLimits #InterestRates #creditworthiness

Are you curious about how credit card companies make money? In this video, we’ll explore the business model behind credit cards and how banks profit from lending.

First, let's start with the basics. Credit card companies earn revenue through a variety of sources, including interest rates, annual fees, transaction fees, late fees, and foreign exchange fees. These fees and charges vary depending on the credit card's terms and conditions and the user's behavior.

But how do credit card companies actually make a profit? The answer lies in the interest charged on outstanding balances. When a customer uses a credit card to make a purchase, they are effectively borrowing money from the credit card issuer. If the customer pays off the balance in full each month, the credit card company doesn't earn any interest. However, if the customer carries a balance, they'll be charged interest on the outstanding amount. This interest can be as high as 25% or more, which generates significant revenue for credit card companies.

Another way credit card companies make money is through annual fees. Some credit cards charge an annual fee just for the privilege of using the card, regardless of whether the user carries a balance or not. These fees can range from a few dollars to several hundred dollars, depending on the card's benefits.

Transaction fees are another source of revenue for credit card companies. Every time a customer uses their credit card, the merchant pays a fee to the credit card issuer. This fee is typically a percentage of the transaction amount and can vary depending on the merchant's industry and the type of credit card used.

Late fees and foreign exchange fees are other revenue streams for credit card companies. Late fees are charged when a customer doesn't make a payment on time, while foreign exchange fees are charged when a customer uses their credit card to make a purchase in a foreign currency.

In conclusion, credit card companies make money through a variety of revenue streams, including interest rates, annual fees, transaction fees, late fees, and foreign exchange fees. While credit cards can be a convenient way to make purchases, it's essential to understand the terms and conditions and the potential costs involved. If you're considering getting a credit card, be sure to do your research and choose a card that aligns with your financial goals and budget.

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