There was a time when people could only transact through the traditional banking system. I am not even referring to mobile banking apps as we know today, but to the days when an individual would walk into a bank for the sole purpose of sending money or cashing a cheque because that was the only option available. This may have been years, probably decades ago, and traditional banking has since evolved. With the rise of digital technologies and changing customer behaviour, new payment methods are now emerging. While traditional banking has been the norm for ATM withdrawals and local bank transfers, virtual cards are presently gaining attention in today’s digital economy.
Traditional banking and virtual cards serve the same purpose, which is to enable financial transactions, but they are unique and operate in different ways. Traditional banking is still widely accepted and tied directly to your bank account, while virtual cards thrive in the digital space. This article compares virtual cards to traditional banking, examining the features, benefits, and limitations of each payment method. A proper understanding of both will enable you to decide on which payment option is best suited for your needs based on convenience, efficiency, flexibility, and security.
Understanding Virtual Cards and Traditional Banking
Before we compare the benefits and limitations of each payment method, let’s take a look at each payment option individually and understand how they operate.
Virtual Cards
A virtual card is a digital version of your ATM card that can be funded and used to make online payments. Like your ATM card, virtual cards come with a card number, expiry date, and CVV number. Unlike your ATM card, virtual cards are not in plastic form, hence the name, ‘virtual’ cards. Here are common features of a virtual card:
- It can be created instantly using fintech platforms, digital wallets, or mobile banking apps
- It can be available in multiple currencies for cross-border use
- It is 100% digital, no physical card required.
- It can have spending limits, allowing users to control the amount that can be charged
- Virtual cards can be single-use or limited-use numbers, reducing the risk of unauthorized transactions.
Traditional Banking
Traditional banking refers to the system of banking offered by physical banks. It involves you opening an account with a local bank, which usually requires your physical presence. It covers in-person ATM cards that are directly tied to your bank account. Common features of traditional banking include:
- Requires your physical presence at the bank to open an account or get your ATM card
- The bank will require personal documents, such as ID, for verification and card issuance
- Access to one-on-one interaction with bank representatives to resolve disputes
- Works for both online and in-person transactions
- Traditional banks provide a wide range of services.
| FEATURES | VIRTUAL CARDS | TRADITIONAL BANKING |
|---|---|---|
| Accessibility | Readily accessible anywhere with the internet | Requires physical presence at a bank branch |
| Speed | Instant transactions for payments and transfers | Slower for certain services like cheque processing, instant for ATM withdrawals, and local transfers |
| Fees | Lower fees required | Fees are much higher |
| Flexibility | 24/7 Availability | Limited to the bank's operational hours for in-person services |
| Security | An extra layer of security through temporary card numbers and limited usage | Protected by bank-level security, physical cards can be lost or stolen. |
Benefits Of Virtual Cards and Traditional Banking
Both payment options offer unique advantages depending on your financial needs, making them valuable tools for African consumers in this digital economy.
Benefits of Virtual Cards
- Accessibility
- Convenience
- Enhanced Security
- Cost-Effective
- Flexible Cross-Border Payments
Virtual cards are readily accessible, requiring only a smartphone and an internet connection. This makes them a great option for many Africans living in rural areas who may not have access to local banks in their communities. With a smartphone and internet connection, anyone, irrespective of their location, can access a virtual card.
Virtual cards can be created and activated instantly through fintech apps or mobile banking platforms, eliminating the need to visit a bank. Users can transact with their cards, manage their payments from anywhere at any time,
Single-use or limited-use numbers provide an extra layer of security for online transactions, making them a valuable feature of virtual cards. For example, a single-use number can only be generated once for a transaction, after which the number becomes invalid. This implies that even if the number is compromised, it cannot be used for future transactions.
Most virtual cards have lower fees when compared to traditional bank cards. In most cases, card creation is free, and certain fees, such as foreign transactions, card replacement, and maintenance, are minimal. This makes it a budget-friendly option for freelancers, business owners, or individuals looking to save costs.
Virtual cards support international transactions, especially in regions where traditional bank cards are restricted or incur high foreign transaction fees. Many virtual cards support multiple currencies, allowing users to pay for goods, services, or subscriptions seamlessly without the hurdles of currency transactions, delays, or declined transactions.
Benefits of Traditional Banking
- Comprehensive Services
- Personal Support
- Regulatory Protection
- Access to Cash
- Investment Services
Traditional banking offers a list of comprehensive services that allow users to do more than make or receive payments. Banks offer loan credit for business owners, and users can also get interest rates from their savings and fixed deposits.
Customers can always visit the local banks to gain access to physical support in cases of disputes or complex transactions.
Traditional banks are insured and regulated by national authorities, giving extra security for funds deposited.
Customers can get access to cash by using the ATM or a withdrawal slip from the bank when needed.
Traditional banks offer investment services, allowing users to achieve their financial goals. These services could be in the form of investment proposals, financial planning, or investment advice that help customers grow their wealth in the long term.
Limitations of Virtual Cards & Traditional Banking
While virtual cards and traditional banking may have their benefits, which we have already discussed, they also have certain challenges that can impact customer experience.
Limitations of Virtual Cards
- Virtual cards cannot be used for in-person payments; they can only be used to transact online.
- Only users who have access to smartphones and an internet connection can access virtual cards.
- Virtual cards cannot be used to withdraw physical cash
- Virtual cards are limited to making payments and cannot be used to access other services
- Virtual cards may have lower funding limits when compared to traditional banking.
Limitations of Traditional Banking
- Traditional banking requires paperwork and documentation, which may be time-consuming
- Traditional banking has geographic limitations, and most rural communities may not have access to local banks
- Traditional banking has limited hours of operation, which might be inconvenient
- Operations and processes are time-consuming and might take days to complete
- Traditional banks most of the time charge higher fees when compared to virtual cards
Conclusion
Both virtual cards and traditional banking have their unique strengths and weaknesses. Virtual cards excel in speed, convenience, and cost efficiency. Traditional banks, on the other hand, still dominate in trust, physical accessibility, and credit services. Deciding on which method is best suited for you depends on your lifestyle. Tech-savvy individuals tend to use virtual cards to make payments online, saving costs and time. Some business owners still depend on traditional banking to make and receive payments. However, there is a better approach that requires a blend of both options. African consumers can use virtual cards to make secure online spending and maximize traditional banking for salary deposits, savings, and cash withdrawals. This hybrid approach allows users to benefit from both payment options and enjoy the convenience it offers.
