IDFC FIRST WoW Credit Card VS Niyo Global Card by Equitas Bank
These are the only two genuinely zero-forex-markup cards in this comparison set, and both are lifetime-free, but they serve different profiles. IDFC FIRST Wow! is a secured, FD-backed card with 0% forex markup and assured issuance without income proof - the better choice if you're building credit history or can't clear a regular unsecured card's income bar. Niyo Global, issued via Equitas Small Finance Bank, is built specifically around a digital account and card for international travelers and students, with Nil forex markup and no security deposit requirement. If you need to build credit from scratch, IDFC FIRST Wow!'s FD-backed structure is the more accessible route; if you already qualify for an unsecured card and just want a travel-focused digital-first account, Niyo Global is the more natural fit.
Fees & Charges
Rewards & Benefits
Travel & Lifestyle
Security & Other
IDFC FIRST WoW Credit Card
Niyo Global Card by Equitas Bank
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
Pros
Key benefits and features.
Lifetime-free with zero joining and annual fees, offering great value.
Zero Forex Markup Fees on international transactions, saving on global spends.
No credit history or income proof required, making it accessible for many.
Interest-free ATM cash withdrawals for up to 45 days, providing financial flexibility.
Helps in building a credit score while your linked Fixed Deposit earns interest.
Pros
Key benefits and features.
Enjoy zero forex markup on international transactions, saving significantly on global spends.
Benefit from a high-interest digital savings account offering up to 7% interest p.a.
Access complimentary airport lounges at international terminals within India.
Manage your card easily with a feature-rich mobile app including ATM locator and currency converter.
No joining or annual fees make the Niyo Global Card a cost-effective choice for travelers.
Cons
Key drawbacks and limitations.
No add-on card facility is available, limiting sharing options for family.
Reward points are not applicable on Fuel, EMI transactions, and Cash withdrawals.
A reward redemption fee of ₹99 + GST applies, reducing the net value of rewards.
Reward points have a validity of 24 months, requiring timely redemption planning.
Cons
Key drawbacks and limitations.
The Niyo Global Card does not offer complimentary international lounge access abroad.
Cash advance charges apply for ATM withdrawals, both domestic (after 3 free) and international.
Specific reward earning rates for general spends are not clearly defined for Global Coins.
Tax Collected at Source (TCS) of 20% is applicable on international spends exceeding ₹7 Lakhs.
The virtual card variant is restricted to online domestic transactions only.