In a bid to cater to the premium segment of customers, Bank of Baroda has rolled out its latest offerings – the Sapphire and Opulence debit cards. In this review, we delve deep into the features, benefits, and application process of the Sapphire debit card, a product that promises to redefine the debit card landscape in India.
Highlights
- Card Type: Premium Debit Card
- Annual Fee: 750 INR + GST
- Welcome Benefit: 750 INR Lifestyle Gift Card
- Eligibility: BOB Savings Account with an AQB of over 10,000 INR
- Unique Selling Point: Airport transfer benefit
Design
The Sapphire debit card is available in two distinct designs catering to “him” and “her”. The design, albeit classy, could benefit from a reduction in the size of the “debit” section and the removal of the “bob world” logo to enhance its aesthetic appeal. The card follows the recent trend of omitting the name on the front, a move aimed at simplifying the printing process.
Features and Benefits
- Airport Lounge Access: Enjoy access to airport lounges twice a quarter through Visa.
- Airport Transfer Service: A standout feature, this service facilitated by Visa Concierge allows for one airport transfer per quarter, a benefit rarely seen even in credit cards.
Application Process
To apply for the Sapphire debit card, follow these steps:
- Visit a BOB branch and initiate the savings account opening process digitally through Aadhaar authentication, which takes about 15 minutes.
- Ensure the account is activated within a few hours and fund it with more than 10,000 INR via NEFT/IMPS.
- Request the branch executive to apply for the Sapphire card on your behalf.
- The virtual card, sans CVV, will be available on the app within three days, with the physical card arriving in a week or more.
Welcome Kit
The welcome kit includes a mini catalog and a 750 INR Lifestyle gift card, redeemable both online and offline. The PIN for the gift card is sent via SMS, a process that could be improved with the addition of email delivery to avoid non-receipt issues.
Review and Critique
The Sapphire debit card, with its affordable annual fee and unique airport transfer benefit, stands as a pioneer in the debit card market, not just in India but globally. The application process is swift, albeit with a noted delay in the physical card delivery, a hiccup that can be overlooked given the functionality of the virtual card.
While the card scores high on benefits, it falls short in the design department, with an unwanted logo and oversized “debit” section. Moreover, the internet banking feature could see enhancements to match the offerings available on the mobile app.
Bottom Line
Rating: 5/5
The Bank of Baroda Sapphire debit card emerges as a winner with its aggressive benefits, a refreshing surprise in the debit card market. It sets a high expectation for future BOB credit cards, encouraging users to “make hay while the sun shines.”
We invite Sapphire debit cardholders to share their experiences in the comments section below.