HSBC Everyday Global Account review
Hold up to 10 different currencies and benefit from simple, global spending.
This multi-currency account from HSBC makes spending globally easy by letting you hold up to 10 currencies and having no fees for spending and withdrawing cash. This review will take you through what you need to know before you apply.
S$0
Monthly fee
S$2,000
Minimum Initial Deposit
S$2,000
Fall below monthly fees
Details
| Product Name | HSBC Everyday Global Account (EGA) |
|---|---|
| Monthly fee | S$0 |
| Minimum Initial Deposit | S$2,000 |
| Minimum balance | S$2,000 |
| Minimum annual interest rate | 0% |
| Maximum annual interest rate | 0.75% p.a. |
| Minimum Age Requirement | 18 years old |
| Mobile payments | Apple Pay |
| Supported Currencies | SGD, AUD, CAD, EUR, GBP, HKD, JPY, NZD, USD, CHF, RMB |
| More Info |
How does the HSBC Everyday Global Account works
This is a global current account that lets you hold multiple currencies as well as benefit from tiered interest rates when you save. You are able to hold 11 currencies in your account, including AUD, CAD, EUR and USD, plus pay no fees when you transact or withdraw in one of these currencies.
To spend easily, you’ll get a HSBC Everyday Global Debit Card. Find out more about how this account works and if it’s right for you in this review.
Key features
In order to meet your daily spending needs, the HSBC Everyday Global Account comes with the following features.
- Access to 10 currencies in your account. You’re able to hold and spend in AUD, CAD, EUR, JPY, NZD, GBP, CHF, USD, HKD and RMB.
- No fees to withdraw cash or spend. You won’t be charged to withdraw cash or spend in any of the currencies you hold in your account.
- Global transfers. Send money internationally to any other HSBC account and receive it instantly.
- Real-time exchange rates. You’ll receive real-time exchange rates through Online GetRate. You can then convert currencies online to get your preferred rate.
- HSBC Singapore app. The app lets you convert currencies, make forex trades and shop online with overseas-based stores.
- Tiered interest rates. The more you save, the more you could earn in interest.
- Save more when you spend. Use your HSBC debit card and earn p to 1.68% bonus interest on your SGD savings.
Fees and limits
Here are some fees to take note of before signing up with HSBC.
- Minimum initial deposit. S$2,000 fee if the average daily balance falls below S$2,000 (or equivalent) in a single/combined currency. If you are a HSBC Premier or HSBC Advance customer, this requirement may be waived.
- HSBC offshore banking fees. $50 per month if your Total Relationship Balance falls below $200,000.
- Early account closure fees. S$50 fee if you close your account within six months of opening.
- Branch transaction fees. $5 fee for every branch transaction (waived for Internet banking).
Pros and cons
Pros
- One account for multiple currencies. Manage multiple currencies in a single account online or through the HSBC mobile banking app.
- Zero transfer fees. Benefit from instant fund transfers to any of your overseas HSBC accounts.
- No international ATM fees. Save on your overseas cash withdrawals with $0 fees at any HSBC ATMs worldwide.
Cons
- Limited currencies. You’ll only be able to pre-load and hold up to 11 currencies in this account.
- Low base interest rates. The prevailing base interest rate for this account is 0.05% p.a.
How to sign up
If you’ve decided to register for the HSBC Everyday Global Account, you may open an account with HSBC following the same steps required to open any other bank account in Singapore. First, check the eligibility requirements stipulated by HSBC to see if you may open an account with them.
Eligibility criteria
You’ll need to meet these requirements to open a HSBC Everyday Global Account:
- Age. Be at least 18 years old
- Residency. Be a Singaporean, Singapore Permanent Resident or a foreign citizen
- Initial deposit. Have at least S$2,000 (or equivalent) for an initial deposit
Required documents
Make sure you have the following information and documents ready when you apply:
- Singapore citizens and permanent residents. A photocopy of your NRIC (both front and back)
- Foreigners with a valid permit. Employment pass or work permit for foreigners
If you meet the criteria and have the required documents, you may apply for an account online on HSBC’s website through the “Apply Now” button. If you already have an existing account with HSBC, you may log onto your HSBC account to apply directly for a more seamless process.
Verdict
The HSBC Everyday Global Account is a great option to consider if you need a simple way to spend in multiple currencies. With this account you can transfer currencies easily online and lock in your preferred rate, thanks to real-time exchange rates. The account also comes with no monthly fees and no fees for ATM withdrawals in other currencies.
While this is a good option for global spending, other multi-currency accounts come with additional features, such as budgeting tools and rebates. Wise also comes out on top for global banking as it gives you local bank details in 30 currencies, which HSBC does not. However, if you’re looking for a basic multi-currency account with no fees, this account will meet your needs.