If you use a credit card from SBI, IDFC First, or Axis Bank, important changes are coming in April 2025.
From that time, some of the rewards and benefits will be reduced, and a few cards will be discontinued.
If you’re a cardholder of any of these banks, it’s a good idea to plan ahead and be aware of these upcoming changes.
SBI Credit Cards: Rewards Reduction
SBI has made changes to its SimplyCLICK SBI Card. Now, when you use the card to order food on Swiggy, you’ll earn only 5X reward points instead of 10X.
However, you’ll still earn 10X rewards on Myntra, BookMyShow, and Apollo 24|7.
The benefits on the Air India SBI Credit Card are also being reduced:
For the Platinum Credit Card, previously you could earn 15 points for every ₹100 spent on Air India ticket bookings, but now you’ll earn just 5 points.
For the Signature Credit Card, you used to earn 30 points per ₹100 spent, but this will be reduced to only 10 points.
Those who used these cards for travel will no longer enjoy the same rewards as before.
IDFC First Bank: Club Vistara Card Discontinued
IDFC First Bank is discontinuing its Club Vistara Credit Card. The milestone benefits (like free tickets and upgrade vouchers) will expire after March 31, 2025.
While customers can still earn Maharaja Points until March 31, 2026, the card will be fully discontinued after that date.
The Club Vistara Silver Membership will no longer be available, but anyone renewing their card after March 31, 2025, will not be charged an annual fee for one year.
Axis Bank: Changes to Vistara Card
After the merger of Vistara and Air India, Axis Bank will make significant changes to its Vistara Credit Card benefits from April 18, 2025.
There will no longer be free airline tickets or Maharaja Club membership. Though the card will have no annual fee after renewal, the benefits will be reduced.
However, perks like lounge access, golf benefits, and dining offers will continue.
Importantly, you will no longer earn reward points on rent payments, wallet loading, utility bills (like electricity and water), government services, insurance payments, or purchases of jewelry and watches.
What Should You Do?
If you rely on these cards for travel and shopping, you may want to reassess your spending and rewards strategy. Look into other banks’ cards that might offer better benefits.
If your card is due for renewal soon, make sure to check the updated terms. Those who enjoyed free tickets and more rewards may need to consider new options.
