First Tier Credit Card Comparison: Sanlam Money Saver Credit Card Vs FNB Aspire Credit Card

The Sanlam Money Saver Credit Card is designed to help you save while you spend, offering a 5% Wealth Bonus […]

The Sanlam Money Saver Credit Card is designed to help you save while you spend, offering a 5% Wealth Bonus on every transaction. Sanlam matches 2.5% of your savings per transaction, encouraging long-term wealth accumulation. This card provides an innovative way to blend spending and saving. One of its unique features is earning R1 back for every liter of fuel purchased at TotalEnergies forecourts. With a strong focus on rewards for spending at partner retailers, the Sanlam Money Saver card promotes a disciplined savings approach alongside daily credit use.

Key Benefits:

  • Earn 5% Wealth Bonus on every purchase, except for fuel purchases at TotalEnergies.
  • R1 back per liter on fuel purchases at TotalEnergies forecourts.
  • Quarterly or annual payouts of the accumulated Wealth Bonus.
  • No savings requirement if you opt out of the Wealth Bonus.

Requirements:

  • Must be over 18 years old.
  • South African citizen with a valid ID.
  • Minimum monthly income of R3,000.
  • Valid contact details and a clear credit record.
  • Permanently employed, a contract worker, or self-employed with proof of financial stability.

Overview of the FNB Aspire Credit Card

The FNB Aspire Credit Card offers a suite of benefits that include competitive interest rates, 55 days of interest-free credit on purchases, and up to 30% rebates on FNB Funeral Plan premiums. FNB Aspire is also designed for everyday convenience, with free Cash@Till withdrawals, and access to FNB’s eBucks rewards program, making it an attractive option for customers who frequently shop with eBucks partners like Checkers, Takealot, and Clicks. Aspire users enjoy travel perks like complimentary SLOW Lounge visits and global travel insurance.

Key Benefits:

  • Up to 55 days interest-free on purchases.
  • Access to eBucks rewards for earning and spending.
  • Two complimentary annual SLOW Lounge visits.
  • Purchase protection on items bought with the virtual card.
  • Free Cash@Till withdrawals and two free eWallets per month.

Requirements:

  • Minimum annual income between R60,000 and R299,999.
  • A clear credit record.
  • FNB customers can access additional perks such as family banking discounts.

Comparison Table: Sanlam Money Saver Credit Card Vs FNB Aspire Credit Card

FeaturesSanlam Money Saver Credit CardFNB Aspire Credit Card
Monthly FeeNo monthly fee (if linked to Wealth Bonus)R55.00
Interest-Free DaysNot specifiedUp to 55 days
Rewards Program5% Wealth Bonus (except TotalEnergies forecourts)eBucks rewards
Fuel RewardsR1 back per liter at TotalEnergiesEarn eBucks at Engen
Complimentary Lounge VisitsNoneTwo SLOW Lounge visits annually
Travel InsuranceNoneGlobal Travel Insurance
Cash WithdrawalsStandard fees applyFree Cash@Till withdrawals, R80 at other ATMs
EligibilityMinimum income: R3,000Minimum income: R60,000 per annum

Benefits of the Sanlam Money Saver Credit Card

  1. Guaranteed Wealth Bonus: The standout feature is the 5% Wealth Bonus for each purchase, helping you build wealth with minimal effort.
  2. Fuel Savings: R1 back per liter at TotalEnergies is a guaranteed saving, making it ideal for frequent travelers.
  3. No Monthly Fees: If you choose the Wealth Bonus savings option, you wonโ€™t be required to pay a monthly fee.
  4. Quarterly or Annual Payout: The Wealth Bonus can be cashed out quarterly or annually, offering flexibility in how you receive your savings.

Pros:

  • Encourages savings with every purchase.
  • Offers great fuel rewards for TotalEnergies users.
  • Ideal for those who want to combine spending with wealth-building.

Cons:

  • Limited to TotalEnergies forecourts for fuel rewards.
  • The Wealth Bonus system requires consistent spending to maximize benefits.
  • No travel or lounge benefits compared to competitors.

Benefits of the FNB Aspire Credit Card

  1. eBucks Rewards Program: Earn eBucks with every swipe and redeem them at a wide range of partners, offering savings on groceries, tech, and travel.
  2. Interest-Free Period: Enjoy 55 days interest-free on your purchases, making it ideal for those who pay off their balance monthly.
  3. Travel Benefits: With two annual SLOW Lounge visits and global travel insurance, this card is perfect for frequent travelers.
  4. Family Banking Discounts: Spouses and kids benefit from discounted account fees.

Pros:

  • Strong rewards program with eBucks.
  • No charge for Cash@Till withdrawals and up to R3,000 free withdrawals from ATMs monthly.
  • Ideal for families, with spouse and childrenโ€™s accounts included.

Cons:

  • Higher income requirement (R60,000+ annually).
  • A monthly fee of R55, which can add up over time if not offset by rewards.

Who Each Credit Card is Suitable For

Sanlam Money Saver Credit Card

This card is perfect for individuals who prioritize long-term savings and want a no-monthly-fee credit card. The Sanlam Money Saver is especially appealing to those who frequently shop at Sanlamโ€™s partner retailers or purchase fuel at TotalEnergies forecourts, where they can maximize the 5% Wealth Bonus or fuel rewards. Additionally, itโ€™s an ideal choice for customers who have a lower minimum income (starting at R3,000) and want a simple, savings-driven credit card.

FNB Aspire Credit Card

The FNB Aspire Credit Card suits customers who are already part of the FNB banking ecosystem or those who want a card offering a wide range of rewards and travel benefits. The card is ideal for moderate to high-income earners (R60,000+ annually) looking for lifestyle perks like lounge access and global travel insurance. Aspire also appeals to those who spend regularly at eBucks partners such as Checkers and Clicks, enabling them to earn and spend rewards efficiently.

Pros and Cons Summary

Credit CardProsCons
Sanlam Money SaverGuaranteed savings, no monthly fees, strong fuel rewardsLimited to certain retailers for full Wealth Bonus benefits
FNB AspireeBucks rewards, travel perks, interest-free daysHigher income requirement, R55 monthly fee

Conclusion

Choosing between the Sanlam Money Saver Credit Card and the FNB Aspire Credit Card depends on your personal financial needs. If you value savings and a simple, cost-effective card, the Sanlam Money Saver may be your best option. However, if youโ€™re looking for rewards in travel, purchases, and family banking with more lifestyle perks, the FNB Aspire Credit Card stands out. Each card caters to different priorities, and the decision will ultimately come down to your spending habits and the types of rewards that matter most to you.