What is a card brand and which are the best?

THE card flag is one of the most essential aspects in the world of payments, being a determining factor for the acceptance of your card in various establishments. 

In simple terms, it is the mark that identifies the network responsible for processing the financial transactions carried out with it. 

Companies like Visa, Mastercard, and American Express are typical examples of these brands.

Read the text and learn more details about this tool and which are the best on the market. 

How does the credit card flag work?

The operation of card flag involves mediation between the card-issuing bank and the commercial establishment where the purchase is made. 

When you use your card, the card company authorizes the transaction and ensures that the money will be transferred from the issuing bank to the merchant.

This process guarantees the security and efficiency of financial transactions, making card use a fast and secure experience for the consumer.

What is it for? 

The main function of the card brand is to allow financial transactions to occur smoothly and securely. 

In addition to authorizing and processing payments, they also offer a range of benefits to users, such as rewards programs, insurance, and travel assistance services. 

Therefore, choosing the right brand can maximize the benefits you get from your credit card.

Main credit card brands in Brazil

In Brazil, some credit cards stand out for their widespread acceptance and the benefits they offer. Among them, the most notable are Visa and Mastercard. 

Visa is one of the most widely accepted cards in the world, present in millions of commercial establishments. 

In addition to being easy to accept, it offers many advantages and benefits to its users. 

Mastercard is also on the same level. It's widely accepted and known for its rewards programs and exclusive promotions. 

Mastercard cards often come with additional benefits, such as access to airport lounges.

Apart from these two options, we can still mention the American Express, also known as Amex. 

It has lower acceptance and is typically included with high-income cards. However, it offers cards with premium benefits, such as insurance, robust rewards programs, and exceptional customer service.

Among the main card flags present in Brazil, we find Elo, a Brazilian flag. 

This brand has gained prominence for offering cards with benefits aligned with local needs, in addition to discount programs and exclusive promotions. 

Finally, we also highlight Hipercard. Popular in Brazil, especially in the Northeast, it offers benefits on purchases, especially in supermarket chains and department stores.

Before choosing a credit card, you should analyze the acceptance and benefits that the brand offers.

This way, you can maximize the benefits offered by this financial product. 

Read also: Tips for saving money during school holidays

Advantages of the main card brands

Each card flag has its own advantages, which can influence consumer choice. 

Below, we highlight some benefits that can be decisive when choosing a specific brand:

1. Visa and Mastercard:

Both offer a global acceptance network and a range of additional services, such as purchase protection and travel insurance. 

According to a survey by ABECS (Brazilian Association of Credit Card and Services Companies), in 2023, these two brands together represented approximately 85% of card transactions in Brazil, demonstrating their popularity and trust in the market. 

Visa's main rewards program is Go with VisaWith it, you have access to a series of subprograms where you can get discounts and benefits on different types of services, for example: 

• Trips;
• Electronics;
• Fashion;
• Entertainment;
• Education;
• Health. 

In addition, you can also support important causes with Visa Causes. 

Mastercard stands out with its Mastercard Surpreenda program, but it also offers other benefits that may vary depending on the card version.

2. American Express

Amex is ideal for those seeking exclusivity and premium service. 

Their rewards program is more generous, and their cards offer benefits that may justify the higher annual fee.

In addition to the rewards program, this credit card flag has partnerships with large companies. 

As a result, your subscribers can enjoy many discounts and other benefits. 

3. Elo and Hipercard

As national brands, these options can offer specific advantages for the Brazilian market, such as local promotions and exclusive partnerships with Brazilian establishments.

Elo, for example, has a Use Elo rewards program. Through it, you have access to promotions, offers, discounts, and more. 

While at Hipercard, you can get discounts from partners such as:

• Evino;
• Funstock;
• Multilaser;
• Philips;
• Centaur.

Conclusion

Understand what is card flag and how it works is essential to making informed decisions about which credit card to choose.

The main brands present in Brazil offer a wide range of benefits that can adapt to the diverse needs of consumers.

Therefore, when selecting your next card, consider the benefits offered by each brand and how they align with your consumption profile. 

Remember, choosing the card brand can influence not only the acceptance of your card, but also the benefits and security you will have when using it. 

Choose wisely and make the most of the benefits each flag can offer.