What are the different types of plastic money cards?

08 Apr.,2024

 

In the past few decades, there has been a revolution in how we pay for goods and services. Plastic money, also known as credit and debit cards, has become many consumers' preferred payment method. There are many advantages to using plastic money, such as convenience, safety, and security. However, there are also some disadvantages, such as fees and the potential for fraud. Despite the disadvantages, plastic money is here to stay. As the world becomes increasingly digitized, we can expect to see even more growth in the use of credit and debit cards. 

Did you know? The first card was introduced in the year 1967 by Barclays in London followed by Chemical Banks in New York in the year 1969.

 

What Is Plastic Money?

Plastic money is a term used for credit cards and debit cards. It is a type of payment that allows customers to make purchases without using cash. Plastic money is convenient and can be used anywhere that accepts credit cards. Many people use plastic money for everyday purchases, such as groceries. 

There are two main types of plastic money: credit cards and debit cards. Credit cards are issued by banks, allowing customers to borrow money up to a certain limit. Debit cards are linked to a bank account and allow customers to spend money they already have.

 

Why Is Plastic Money Useful?

Plastic money is convenient because it can be used anywhere that accepts credit cards. This includes most stores, restaurants, and online retailers. Plastic money is also easy to use, as customers simply need to swipe their card or enter their card number to complete a purchase. There are some drawbacks to using plastic money, however.

For example, if a customer misuses their credit card, they may have a large debt. Additionally, if a customer’s credit card is stolen, their identity may be compromised. Overall, plastic money is a convenient way to make purchases.

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Importance Of Plastic Money

In a world where cash is slowly becoming obsolete, plastic moneyis becoming increasingly popular. There are many benefits of plastic money, such as:  

1. Convenience: 

Carrying around a wad of cash can be cumbersome and dangerous. With plastic money, all you need is a card, and you are good to go. 

2. Safety: 

If you lose cash, it has gone for good. But if you lose a credit or debit card, you can cancel it and get a replacement. 

3. Rewards: 

Many credit cards offer rewards points that can be redeemed for travel, merchandise, or cash back. 

4. Protection: 

When you use a credit card, you have protection against fraud and theft. 

5. Universal Acceptance: 

Plastic money is more convenient, safe, and rewarding than cash. It is also more widely accepted, making it the preferred choice for many people. Plastic money is accepted everywhere, online and offline. This is especially useful for travelers.

Examples Of Plastic Money

People use plastic money more often than cash. It is convenient and easy to carry around. Plus, you can use it to make purchases online. Several types of plastic money include credit cards, debit cards, and prepaid cards. Credit cards are the most common type of plastic money. They are issued by banks and can be used to make purchases anywhere in the world. Debit cards are linked to your bank account and can be used to withdraw cash or make purchases. Prepaid cards are like debit cards but are not linked to a bank account. Instead, you load them with money in advance. 

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Various Types of Plastic Money

Plastic money is a term used for credit cards and debit cards. It is so-called because these cards are made of plastic. Plastic money is very convenient to use. You can use it to buy things without having to carry cash with you. 

There are many diverse types of plastic money and the following are:

Credit Cards

Credit cards are a type of plastic money. They allow you to borrow money from a bank or other financial institution. You can use this money to buy things. However, you will need to repay the money plus interest. 

Debit Cards

Debit cards are another type of plastic money. They are linked to your bank account. This means that you can use them to withdraw cash or make payments directly from your bank account. 

Prepaid Card

Prepaid cards are another type of plastic money. They are like debit cards, but you load them with money in advance. This means that you can only spend the money that you have loaded onto the card. 

Contactless Cards

Contactless cards are a newer type of plastic money. They use radio waves to communicate with a card reader. This means that you can make payments without having to insert or swipe your card. 

Plastic money is very convenient to use. However, you need to be careful with it. You should only use plastic money from reputable sources. You should also be careful about how much money you spend on your card. If you do not repay your debts, your credit rating will be affected. 

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Use of Plastic Money in India

The use of plastic money in India has exploded in recent years, with more people using debit and credit cards for everyday transactions. There are several reasons for this, but the most important one is its sheer convenience. With a plastic card, you do not have to carry large amounts of cash, which can be a security risk. Another reason for the popularity of plastic money is that it is simply much easier to use than cash. You do not have to worry about counting the right amount of money or ensuring enough change. All you need to do is swipe your card, and you are done.  

Future Of Plastic Money

India has been the world's quickest emergent economies, the digital transactions have additionally emerged as greater relaxed, more convenient, authentication and made ecommerce more secure. The forthcoming subsequent 5 years is anticipated to be an exciting period within the payments space in India. it is predicted to be greater development, innovation and infrastructure building coupled with adoption of greater dynamic technological innovations.

There are also some downsides to using plastic money. One is that it is extremely easy to overspend when not using cash. It is also important to be careful where you use your card, as some places (like ATMs) can be more vulnerable to fraud. Overall, though, the use of plastic money in India is an incredibly positive development. It is convenient, easy to use, and more secure than carrying large amounts of cash. 

Conclusion

Plastic money is becoming increasingly popular as a payment method. It is important to be aware of the several types of plastic money, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of each. Plastic money can offer several advantages, including convenience and security. There are also a few disadvantages to using plastic money, such as the potential for fraud and overspending.  

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Name an example of plastic money.

  • Credit cards are an example of plastic money. They are issued by financial institutions like banks.
  • Plastic money is a convenient substitute for cash or the standard currency. Different forms of plastic money are Credit cards, Debit cards, ATM cards, Prepaid Cash cards, Forex cards, etc.
  • Plastic money is beneficial for customers for both physical and virtual purchases of goods and services.
  • Plastic money was invented by an Australian scientist, David Solomon.
  • The usage of plastic money has a lot of advantages:
  • Facilitates paperless transactions, assured security in transactions, easy and convenient to carry, availability of multiple payment options, more flexibility compared to traditional modes of transactions,rewards and benefits, and control over spending.
  • However, there is a risk factor involved in losing the card and further complications.It cannot be used in small outlets and for daily needs.

Further Reading:

  • Money Supply
  • Monetary System

Find more related IAS Questions in the linked article.

Related Links:

Inflation Financial Market Fiscal Deficit Money Supply in Economy Monetary  policies Money Supply in Economy

What are the different types of plastic money cards?

Name an example of plastic money. [IAS Questions & Answers at BYJU’S]