Originally Posted by
paris1000
I also thought it was odd that they mention 'Founding Member' implying significant benefits but then not mention any details. If it's just about the $100, then I'd call it a 'limited-time new customer bonus'.
I'm still not sure I see a tremendous utility with this account/service. For dining and travel expenses, I'm still going to use a no-fee card to get points. For an ex-pat paying rent and utility bills, for example, it seems a local bank account would be used (if not even required). There's an argument that Denizen provides access to your cash at a competitive exchange rate, but I'm skeptical as to how significant of an issue that is for most folks.
I would think the fact that there's an IBAN number would allow bill payments in Europe, no? Then again, you'd likely be getting paid in local currency into a local bank account anyway as you said.
Anyway, one plus that I can see is that the debit card is contactless. However, based on the stuff in the FAQ I found, it behaves no differently than other US-issued debit cards when inserted--not to mention that you can just use a mobile wallet if you want to tap to pay for stuff with other US cards. (Though since this service is available in other countries too, I wonder if the stuff in there about the debit card is 100% accurate. I would think people elsewhere wouldn't be okay with having to sign for stuff.)