We show offers we can track - that's not every product on the market...yet. Unless we've said otherwise, products are in no particular order. The terms "best", "top", "cheap" (and variations of these) aren't ratings, though we always explain what's great about a product when we highlight it. This is subject to our terms of use. When you make major financial decisions, consider getting independent financial advice. Always consider your own circumstances when you compare products so you get what's right for you. Most of the data in Finder's comparison tables has the source: Moneyfacts Group PLC. In other cases, Finder has sourced data directly from providers.
Glint review
Find out more about the startup describing itself as a new global currency.
No reviews yet.
Write a review
Glint is a fintech app taking an interesting new approach to current accounts and finance. At its core, Glint works like many other challenger banks, providing a system for customers to spend their money from the convenient platform of their smartphone. However, Glint differs in one crucial area: rather than using the traditional currency, Glint is attempting to bring back gold.
What is Glint?
Glint felt that “it was unfair that money is prone to depreciate in ways we have no control over”, and sees the solution in gold. According to Glint, gold is a trustworthy form of money – an independent and more stable currency that gives some control back to the consumer.
With a Glint account, your transactions are backed by gold, and, because it isn’t exclusive to one country, you can make them anywhere.
How does Glint work?
Like most other challenger banks and fintech companies, Glint works almost entirely from your smartphone, with the exception of the physical card that they will send after registering.
Getting started is simple. Download the app from either the App Store or Google Play. Then register by entering your name and address. The process of receiving your card and completing your registration is just as streamlined. Once in the app, it’s easy to find your way around the home page.
Only the essentials are featured on the app. These include:
- Currencies. From the homescreen, you can top up money in your account by bank transfer or via a debit or credit card. You can also buy and send gold using the Buy or Sell icon. Balances can be held in different currencies.
- Markets. Glint has a collection of third-party providers offering a variety of services for you to choose from. Browse through them from here.
- Profile. Customise your account, review settings and security, and even invite a friend to join.
- Card. Here you can see your Glint Mastercard balance.
Using Glint abroad
Glint is a great travel tool. Not only can it be used anywhere via the app, but because gold’s value is recognised in many different countries you don’t have to struggle with exchanging currency. Additionally, because Glint uses Mastercard, your Glint card is accepted in over 30 million locations worldwide.
If you're travelling abroad
If you are heading overseas and are thinking about travel money, head to our travel money section for the cheapest deals on foreign currencies, or to our travel section for tips on how to get cheap flights!Glint fees, limits and pricing
Opening a Glint account costs nothing, but Glint does come with a handful of fees and limits. These include:
- The gold exchange fee comes with a charge of 0.5% of the transaction value. Similarly, the foreign exchange fee is 0.5% of the transaction value.
- Point-of-sale transactions are free with a limit of £5,000 per day; ATM withdrawals cost £1.50 with a limit of £300 per day.
- Topping up via debit or credit card is free, but is limited to £2,000 per day.
- Bank transfers are free.
- There is a monthly 0.02% gold storage and insurance fee.
- Account closures cost nothing.
Is Glint safe?
Glint is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, meaning your money is always safe even in unforeseen circumstances. Your money and sensitive details are kept behind a password, and registration requires proper authentication before you are approved. You can only activate your card once it’s reached you, so if it’s stolen before it’s arrived it’s completely useless.
Pros and cons of Glint
Pros
- Reasonable fees and limits.
- Gold is not exclusive to one country.
- Contactless debit card.
- Simple and functional app design.
- Quick and easy registration.
- Great to travel with.
- Safe and secure.
- Fully registered with the FCA and PRA.
Cons
- Gold is still vulnerable to market movements and its value can fluctuate.
- Compared to other challenger banking apps, Glint’s app offers far less features to help manage your finances.
- Traditional banks are still necessary for most of your banking and financial needs.
Customer service information for Glint
| Email support | |
|---|---|
| Telephone support | |
| In-app or live chat | |
| Contact form | |
| Branch support |
Our verdict
While Glint doesn’t work as a replacement for traditional banking services, it does make a great companion to them. The work that has gone into creating such a complex app definitely shows and could be well worth exploring.
Frequently asked questions
More guides on Finder
-
Cash vs card: Which wins in 2024?
The Finder team roamed the streets of London to quiz the general public about whether they prefer cash or card. Paid content.
-
Best money saving apps in the UK 2024: Build a savings pot
There are times when we could all do with a hand to save money, and we’ve assembled some of the best apps to help you do it.
-
MyPocket review
Here’s all you need to know about the digital banking service that is aiming to make banking accessible to all.
-
Starling Bank business account review
Thinking about opening a Starling business account? Take a look at our analysis to find out if it’s suited to your company.
-
Fuze Card review
Fuze Card is a device to store all your cards in one place. But does it actually work and is it worth the price?
-
Soldo review
Soldo promises to revolutionise the way your business manages its expenses. Our review analyses its features and fees to see if it’s worth it.
-
What is Open Banking?
Open Banking can open the way to new products and services for UK customers. Read this guide to find out all you need to know about Open Banking, from APIs to regulations.
-
Pockit review
Looking for a digital-only bank account? We explore the app and all of the fees and features that come with a Pockit online current account.
-
Plum app review: The AI assistant that helps you save money
Plum’s app uses artificial intelligence to help you set aside money and spend wisely. Our review analyses the money management features on offer.
-
Chip savings app review
The Chip savings app will connect to your current account and stash money away automatically. We cover all you need to know about the innovative app in this review.
Can the app be downloaded onto a Windows 7 laptop? Can it be used from there?
Hi Aylward,
Thanks for reaching out to Finder.
Glint app can’t be downloaded onto a Windows 7 laptop. Currently, you can only access the Glint App via an iOs and Android systems.
I hope this helps.
Cheers,
Charisse
How do I know that the money I put into Glint is actually backed up by gold? Other than them simply telling me so?
Hi Tony,
Thanks for getting in touch with finder. I hope all is well with you. :)
It is worth noting that Glint is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and this only happens if you meet verification, assessment, and background check by the FCA. For this reason, it is safe to say that Glint’s claims are true, which include that your money is backed up by gold.
Another way for you to check is to visit their website. You can directly get in touch with them and ask them questions. They can explain to you why they can be trusted.
I hope this helps. Should you have further questions, please don’t hesitate to reach us out again.
Have a wonderful day!
Cheers,
Joshua