Low Rates Y2K (2/23/99)
FULL STORY:
The teaser rate marketing game remains alive and well as CitiBank
continues to market its 3.9% APR, 12-month balance transfer rate on its
'Platinum Select VISA'. According to CardWeb's CardWatch service, Citi has
launched a direct mail campaign this week offering the 3.9% rate through
March 1, 2000. The no-annual-fee 'Platinum Select' card charges a prime
+7.9% rate for purchases and a 19.9% fixed rate for cash advances. The
punitive APR is prime +12.9% and the late fee/over-limit fee is $25. While
low rates continue to abound, higher fees are on the horizon. CardWatch
also reports this week that MBNA is currently notifying cardholders that
its late fee and over-limit fees are increasing from $25 to $29. Bank One
is also currently notifying First Chicago cardholders this week that late
fee and over-limit fees are going up. For the latest marketing/pricing
intelligence for the card professional visit CardWatch (www.cardwatch.com)
and monitor CardFlash (www.cardflash.com). (special subscriber fees applies)