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Angola says oil-backed China loans to drop to $7.5-8 billion by year-end
Angola says oil-backed China loans to drop to $7.5-8 billion by year-end

Reuters

time24-07-2025

  • Business
  • Reuters

Angola says oil-backed China loans to drop to $7.5-8 billion by year-end

LUANDA, July 24 (Reuters) - Angola's oil-backed loans owed to China will drop to $7.5-8 billion by year-end, the director of the country's debt management office said, as the government moves to reduce its exposure to resource backed financing. "All debt collateralised by oil revenues is concentrated in agreements with China, which have been gradually reduced in recent years," Dorivaldo Teixeira, Director of Debt Management Unit in the finance ministry, told Reuters late on Wednesday. Oil-backed loans to China stood at $10.146 billion at the end of last year, official data showed, and had already dropped to $8.943 billion at the end of last month.

Germany: Successful Implementation of Infrastructure Investment Key to Growth, Fiscal Sustainability
Germany: Successful Implementation of Infrastructure Investment Key to Growth, Fiscal Sustainability

Yahoo

time24-07-2025

  • Business
  • Yahoo

Germany: Successful Implementation of Infrastructure Investment Key to Growth, Fiscal Sustainability

Germany's intention to borrow up to EUR 850bn (20% of GDP) over the next five years to bolster defence (14% of GDP) and infrastructure (6%) is higher than the EUR 625bn Scope Ratings (Scope) had anticipated, mostly reflecting the government's increased ambition around defence spending. The government had paved the way for this additional borrowing with the debt brake reform of March 2025. Scope now projects that Germany's fiscal deficit will increase to around 4% of GDP over the medium term, from 2.8% in 2024 and 2.5% in 2023; and the public debt-to-GDP ratio will rise to around 74% by 2030, from 62.5% in 2024 (see Figures 1 and 2). Scope assumes a more gradual increase in borrowing relative to the government's fiscal plans, reflecting expected capacity constraints on rapidly-increasing defence and infrastructure spending, and the fact that the 2025 Budget has yet to be passed. After the fiscal plans were announced, the federal debt management agency raised its funding target for Q3 2025 to EUR 119bn, from EUR 100bn. While the expected increase in public deficits and the debt ratio is sizeable, Germany retains unique credit strengths, including its wealthy, large and diversified economy, robust fiscal policy framework and strong track record of fiscal discipline as well as its highly-competitive external sector. Borrowing Plans Imply a Fiscal Deficit of Around 4% of GDP and a Rising Public Debt Trajectory Figure 1: General government fiscal deficit, % of GDP Figure 2: General government gross debt, % of GDP Fiscal Space Will Shrink Without Pension and Labour Market Reform Despite the increase in borrowing, pressure to consolidate the federal core budget will increase over time. Growing expenditures on interest and social security, including on pensions and healthcare, will reduce fiscal flexibility. Projected revenue and expenditure trends imply a reduction in the headroom of non-mandatory spending to only 3% of total expenditure in 2035, from 24% in 2024, according to the think tank Dezernat Zukunft. Scope estimates an increase in net interest expenditure to 1.6% of GDP by 2030, from 1% of GDP in 2024, which, while remaining favourable compared to euro area peers, will reduce Germany's fiscal space. With limited fiscal headroom, German governments will likely become even more reliant on exemptions to the existing debt-brake rules or use special funds more frequently to address future challenges. However, both mechanisms come with significant political hurdles as these decisions require two-thirds parliamentary majorities. The current government lacks such a majority, and Scope believes it will be increasingly difficult also for future governments to meet that hurdle given the country's rising political fragmentation. To create fiscal flexibility over the medium term, structural reform efforts will need to focus on pensions, since top-ups to the pay-as-you-go pension system are projected to increase from EUR 93.1bn in 2025 to EUR 116.4bn (2.3% of GDP) in 2030. Tax revenues could be supported by increasing employment, including by increasing full-time employment among women and the elderly. Infrastructure Spending Vital to Closing Investment Gap and Boosting Growth The timely disbursement of the EUR 500bn infrastructure special fund through 2035 is critical for Germany's growth trajectory. To ensure additionality, investment levels in the core budget will need to be maintained. Planned investments target high-impact projects primarily in road, rail and digital infrastructure, which should address the most urgent needs to narrow the existing investment gap. If well executed, these investments could lift Germany's growth potential towards 1%. Before the special fund was announced, Scope had projected that potential growth would decline to around 0.7% by the end of this decade. Nevertheless, execution risks remain high, since many projects need to be completed in a short period of time. This could stretch planning and construction capacity but also lead to higher inflation. Investments also need to be supported by supply-side and labour-market reforms to raise the country's growth potential above 1% in line with the government's goal. Germany Aims to Meet Revised NATO Target by 2029 With Uncertain Growth Effects The government has significantly raised its ambitions for defence spending. Spending under the NATO definition is planned to increase from 2.1% in 2024 to 2.4% this year and then trend towards 3.5% by 2029, six years ahead of the agreed timeline (Figure 3). As the planned increase affects Germany the most among EU member states when viewed relative to central government revenues, the German government proactively reformed the debt brake to borrow in excess of 1% of GDP for defence spending. But the growth impact associated with higher defence spending is likely to be moderate, although that remains somewhat uncertain at this stage. The Kiel Institute estimates that fiscal multipliers for defence spending are only around 0.5x, depending on the extent to which equipment is procured domestically, and how quickly production capacity can be increased. Figure 3: Germany plans to meet revised NATO target of 3.5% of GDP by 2029 NATO defence spending, % of GDP For a look at all of today's economic events, check out our economic calendar. Julian Zimmermann is a Director in Sovereign and Public Sector and Financial Institutions ratings at Scope Ratings. This article was originally posted on FX Empire More From FXEMPIRE: Has the U.S. Dollar Found Support? Buy Like Big Money: Bentley Systems Lifting Off S&P 500 and Nasdaq 100 Analysis: Golden Cross, Golden Opportunity Germany: Successful Implementation of Infrastructure Investment Key to Growth, Fiscal Sustainability Jump On Potential Highflyers Like Sportradar Early Can Anything Stop Nvidia? The First $4 Trillion Company

Best cashback card deals of the week, 23 July
Best cashback card deals of the week, 23 July

Yahoo

time23-07-2025

  • Business
  • Yahoo

Best cashback card deals of the week, 23 July

Credit cards aren't just about spending. They are also powerful tools that, when used wisely, can help you save money, manage debt and even earn rewards. Whether you're looking to cut down on interest payments, earn cashback on everyday purchases, rack up air miles for your next holiday, or avoid fees while traveling abroad, there's a credit card tailored to your needs. In this guide, we'll break down the best options on the market for balance transfers, purchases, cashback, air miles and travel spending. We'll show you how to use these cards to your advantage, ensuring you get the most value while avoiding common mistakes. Best 0% balance transfer credit cards If you're struggling to keep up with credit card payments, a balance transfer credit card can be a lifesaver. These cards allow you to transfer existing credit card debt onto a new card with a 0% interest rate for a set period, potentially saving you hundreds of pounds in interest. Read more: How to build passive income However, there are some crucial rules to follow to make the most of these deals: Always pay the minimum monthly repayment. Missing a payment could result in losing your 0% interest deal, incurring fines, and damaging your credit score. Clear the debt within the interest-free period. To avoid paying interest after the promotional period ends, make sure you can pay off the entire balance within the 0% timeframe. Don't use the card for new purchases. The 0% deal usually applies only to transferred balances, and using the card for new spending could result in hefty interest charges. Check your credit score. The best deals are often reserved for those with a strong credit rating, so it's worth checking your score before applying. Kate Steere, a credit card expert at personal finance comparison site said: 'There's healthy competition in the balance transfer market at the moment and you can bag almost three years at 0%, provided you don't mind paying a balance transfer fee. "The longest 0% deals always come with these painful, percentage-based balance transfer fees. So if you're in the market for a balance transfer and don't think you'll need such a long period to clear your card debt, then first consider the longest no-fee deals on the market (Barclaycard [BARC.L] currently offers 14 months with no transfer fee). But if you do know you'll need longer to clear your debt, then it's worth taking a slightly shorter 0% term to get a lower balance transfer fee.' Best 0% purchase credit cards A 0% purchase card allows you to make new purchases without paying interest for a set number of months. This can save you thousands compared with using a standard credit card, assuming you pay off the balance during the interest-free period. Read more: Average UK house asking price drops by almost £5,000 These cards are perfect for planned, necessary purchases. Think of them as a tool for managing big buys such as a new TV or essential home improvements. Let's say you take out a 0% purchase card with a 10-month interest-free period and spend £2,000 on new appliances. If you repay £200 each month, you'll clear the debt before the interest kicks in. However, if you still have a balance after the 10-month period, you'll start accruing interest at the standard rate, which can be as high as 27% annually. Key points: 1. Make sure to pay at least the minimum each month to keep the 0% deal. 2. Borrow only what you can comfortably repay within the 0% period. Steere said: 'TSB currently has the longest 0% purchase deal on the market at 25 months, narrowly ahead of M&S (MKS.L) and Barclaycard at 0% for 24 months. "If you're planning a large expenditure, like a summer holiday or some new garden furniture, the current range of 0% purchase cards could offer a handy way to spread the cost. None of these cards come with annual fees, but all of them revert to very standard (read 'punishing') rates after the 0% periods end. If you haven't cleared your balance at that point, look at a balance transfer deal.' Best cashback credit cards A cashback credit card rewards you with a percentage of your spending, effectively giving you back some of what you spend. For example, if your card offers 1% cashback and you spend £100 on groceries, you'll earn £1 back. This cashback is typically credited to your account or added to your statement. Read more: First-time buyers on £30k salary now able to apply for mortgage Things to watch out for: 1. Limits: Some cards cap the total cashback you can earn. 2. Introductory offers: Cashback rates might only apply for the first few months. 3. Restrictions: Some cashback offers are limited to specific purchases or retailers. 4. Minimum spend: Some cards require you to spend a certain amount to qualify for cashback. Steere said: "Amex (AXP) currently offers the highest introductory cashback rate: 5% (up to £125) for the first five months. After the five months, with the Everyday Amex you can earn 0.5% ongoing cashback (1% on annual spend over £10,000) or you can upgrade to the Amex Cashback Credit Card — which is currently free for the first year (£25/year thereafter) and lets you earn 5% (up to £125) for the first three months. "Afterwards, you can earn 0.75% ongoing cashback — the extra cashback covering the card fee once it kicks back in, provided you spend £10,000 on the card annually. However, if you want an instant welcome bonus, then Prime members can get a £50 Amazon welcome gift card with the Amazon (AMZN) Barclaycard.' Best credit cards for air miles If you travel frequently, a credit card for air miles can help reduce the cost of flights and even unlock perks like flight upgrades and hotel stays. By using these cards for everyday purchases, you can earn points that can be redeemed for flights with your favourite airline's loyalty programme. How it works: 1. Earn miles: Points are usually earned based on the amount you spend and the class of your ticket — premium tickets often earn more points. 2. Redeem points: You can use points to cover the cost of flights or upgrades, though taxes and fees may still apply. Steere said: 'For big rewards, the British Airways (IAG.L) American Express Premium Plus Card offers 30,000 Avios when you spend £6,000 in three months, while the Barclaycard Avios Plus Card gives 25,000 Avios for spending £3,000 in the same period. "Virgin Atlantic fans can earn 18,000 points with the Virgin Money Virgin Atlantic Reward Plus Credit Card by making their first purchase within 90 days. Just remember the cards with the biggest introductory reward offers are also the ones with the largest annual fees.' Best credit cards for holidays and travelling Planning a trip abroad? A specialist travel credit card can save you a bundle by offering near-perfect exchange rates without the usual foreign transaction fees. Most credit and debit cards charge around 3% on foreign transactions, meaning a £100 purchase abroad could cost you £103. On top of that, some cards add a flat fee for every overseas transaction. Specialist travel cards waive those fees, letting you spend abroad at the same rates your bank gets. Read more: How to use your Avios points for more than flight tickets Key points: 1. Avoid cash withdrawals, as they often come with fees and interest. 2. Use the card for spending abroad to enjoy near-perfect exchange rates. Steere said: 'If you're getting ready for the holiday season, there are great offers at the moment to help you avoid currency conversion fees overseas, and you can even earn cashback on your spending (at home or abroad). Just be sure to pay your card off in full each month to avoid paying interest (which would soon outweigh any cashback).' Disclaimer: The opinions expressed are the author's alone (unless stated otherwise) and have not been provided, approved, or otherwise endorsed by the providers listed. Yahoo does not earn any commissions from the lenders, or any other third party from the content in this series.

Best cashback card deals of the week, 23 July
Best cashback card deals of the week, 23 July

Yahoo

time23-07-2025

  • Business
  • Yahoo

Best cashback card deals of the week, 23 July

Credit cards aren't just about spending. They are also powerful tools that, when used wisely, can help you save money, manage debt and even earn rewards. Whether you're looking to cut down on interest payments, earn cashback on everyday purchases, rack up air miles for your next holiday, or avoid fees while traveling abroad, there's a credit card tailored to your needs. In this guide, we'll break down the best options on the market for balance transfers, purchases, cashback, air miles and travel spending. We'll show you how to use these cards to your advantage, ensuring you get the most value while avoiding common mistakes. Best 0% balance transfer credit cards If you're struggling to keep up with credit card payments, a balance transfer credit card can be a lifesaver. These cards allow you to transfer existing credit card debt onto a new card with a 0% interest rate for a set period, potentially saving you hundreds of pounds in interest. Read more: How to build passive income However, there are some crucial rules to follow to make the most of these deals: Always pay the minimum monthly repayment. Missing a payment could result in losing your 0% interest deal, incurring fines, and damaging your credit score. Clear the debt within the interest-free period. To avoid paying interest after the promotional period ends, make sure you can pay off the entire balance within the 0% timeframe. Don't use the card for new purchases. The 0% deal usually applies only to transferred balances, and using the card for new spending could result in hefty interest charges. Check your credit score. The best deals are often reserved for those with a strong credit rating, so it's worth checking your score before applying. Kate Steere, a credit card expert at personal finance comparison site said: 'There's healthy competition in the balance transfer market at the moment and you can bag almost three years at 0%, provided you don't mind paying a balance transfer fee. "The longest 0% deals always come with these painful, percentage-based balance transfer fees. So if you're in the market for a balance transfer and don't think you'll need such a long period to clear your card debt, then first consider the longest no-fee deals on the market (Barclaycard [BARC.L] currently offers 14 months with no transfer fee). But if you do know you'll need longer to clear your debt, then it's worth taking a slightly shorter 0% term to get a lower balance transfer fee.' Best 0% purchase credit cards A 0% purchase card allows you to make new purchases without paying interest for a set number of months. This can save you thousands compared with using a standard credit card, assuming you pay off the balance during the interest-free period. Read more: Average UK house asking price drops by almost £5,000 These cards are perfect for planned, necessary purchases. Think of them as a tool for managing big buys such as a new TV or essential home improvements. Let's say you take out a 0% purchase card with a 10-month interest-free period and spend £2,000 on new appliances. If you repay £200 each month, you'll clear the debt before the interest kicks in. However, if you still have a balance after the 10-month period, you'll start accruing interest at the standard rate, which can be as high as 27% annually. Key points: 1. Make sure to pay at least the minimum each month to keep the 0% deal. 2. Borrow only what you can comfortably repay within the 0% period. Steere said: 'TSB currently has the longest 0% purchase deal on the market at 25 months, narrowly ahead of M&S (MKS.L) and Barclaycard at 0% for 24 months. "If you're planning a large expenditure, like a summer holiday or some new garden furniture, the current range of 0% purchase cards could offer a handy way to spread the cost. None of these cards come with annual fees, but all of them revert to very standard (read 'punishing') rates after the 0% periods end. If you haven't cleared your balance at that point, look at a balance transfer deal.' Best cashback credit cards A cashback credit card rewards you with a percentage of your spending, effectively giving you back some of what you spend. For example, if your card offers 1% cashback and you spend £100 on groceries, you'll earn £1 back. This cashback is typically credited to your account or added to your statement. Read more: First-time buyers on £30k salary now able to apply for mortgage Things to watch out for: 1. Limits: Some cards cap the total cashback you can earn. 2. Introductory offers: Cashback rates might only apply for the first few months. 3. Restrictions: Some cashback offers are limited to specific purchases or retailers. 4. Minimum spend: Some cards require you to spend a certain amount to qualify for cashback. Steere said: "Amex (AXP) currently offers the highest introductory cashback rate: 5% (up to £125) for the first five months. After the five months, with the Everyday Amex you can earn 0.5% ongoing cashback (1% on annual spend over £10,000) or you can upgrade to the Amex Cashback Credit Card — which is currently free for the first year (£25/year thereafter) and lets you earn 5% (up to £125) for the first three months. "Afterwards, you can earn 0.75% ongoing cashback — the extra cashback covering the card fee once it kicks back in, provided you spend £10,000 on the card annually. However, if you want an instant welcome bonus, then Prime members can get a £50 Amazon welcome gift card with the Amazon (AMZN) Barclaycard.' Best credit cards for air miles If you travel frequently, a credit card for air miles can help reduce the cost of flights and even unlock perks like flight upgrades and hotel stays. By using these cards for everyday purchases, you can earn points that can be redeemed for flights with your favourite airline's loyalty programme. How it works: 1. Earn miles: Points are usually earned based on the amount you spend and the class of your ticket — premium tickets often earn more points. 2. Redeem points: You can use points to cover the cost of flights or upgrades, though taxes and fees may still apply. Steere said: 'For big rewards, the British Airways (IAG.L) American Express Premium Plus Card offers 30,000 Avios when you spend £6,000 in three months, while the Barclaycard Avios Plus Card gives 25,000 Avios for spending £3,000 in the same period. "Virgin Atlantic fans can earn 18,000 points with the Virgin Money Virgin Atlantic Reward Plus Credit Card by making their first purchase within 90 days. Just remember the cards with the biggest introductory reward offers are also the ones with the largest annual fees.' Best credit cards for holidays and travelling Planning a trip abroad? A specialist travel credit card can save you a bundle by offering near-perfect exchange rates without the usual foreign transaction fees. Most credit and debit cards charge around 3% on foreign transactions, meaning a £100 purchase abroad could cost you £103. On top of that, some cards add a flat fee for every overseas transaction. Specialist travel cards waive those fees, letting you spend abroad at the same rates your bank gets. Read more: How to use your Avios points for more than flight tickets Key points: 1. Avoid cash withdrawals, as they often come with fees and interest. 2. Use the card for spending abroad to enjoy near-perfect exchange rates. Steere said: 'If you're getting ready for the holiday season, there are great offers at the moment to help you avoid currency conversion fees overseas, and you can even earn cashback on your spending (at home or abroad). Just be sure to pay your card off in full each month to avoid paying interest (which would soon outweigh any cashback).' Disclaimer: The opinions expressed are the author's alone (unless stated otherwise) and have not been provided, approved, or otherwise endorsed by the providers listed. Yahoo does not earn any commissions from the lenders, or any other third party from the content in this while retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error while retrieving data Error while retrieving data Error while retrieving data Error while retrieving data

Best cashback card deals of the week, 23 July
Best cashback card deals of the week, 23 July

Yahoo

time23-07-2025

  • Business
  • Yahoo

Best cashback card deals of the week, 23 July

Credit cards aren't just about spending. They are also powerful tools that, when used wisely, can help you save money, manage debt and even earn rewards. Whether you're looking to cut down on interest payments, earn cashback on everyday purchases, rack up air miles for your next holiday, or avoid fees while traveling abroad, there's a credit card tailored to your needs. In this guide, we'll break down the best options on the market for balance transfers, purchases, cashback, air miles and travel spending. We'll show you how to use these cards to your advantage, ensuring you get the most value while avoiding common mistakes. Best 0% balance transfer credit cards If you're struggling to keep up with credit card payments, a balance transfer credit card can be a lifesaver. These cards allow you to transfer existing credit card debt onto a new card with a 0% interest rate for a set period, potentially saving you hundreds of pounds in interest. Read more: How to build passive income However, there are some crucial rules to follow to make the most of these deals: Always pay the minimum monthly repayment. Missing a payment could result in losing your 0% interest deal, incurring fines, and damaging your credit score. Clear the debt within the interest-free period. To avoid paying interest after the promotional period ends, make sure you can pay off the entire balance within the 0% timeframe. Don't use the card for new purchases. The 0% deal usually applies only to transferred balances, and using the card for new spending could result in hefty interest charges. Check your credit score. The best deals are often reserved for those with a strong credit rating, so it's worth checking your score before applying. Kate Steere, a credit card expert at personal finance comparison site said: 'There's healthy competition in the balance transfer market at the moment and you can bag almost three years at 0%, provided you don't mind paying a balance transfer fee. "The longest 0% deals always come with these painful, percentage-based balance transfer fees. So if you're in the market for a balance transfer and don't think you'll need such a long period to clear your card debt, then first consider the longest no-fee deals on the market (Barclaycard [BARC.L] currently offers 14 months with no transfer fee). But if you do know you'll need longer to clear your debt, then it's worth taking a slightly shorter 0% term to get a lower balance transfer fee.' Best 0% purchase credit cards A 0% purchase card allows you to make new purchases without paying interest for a set number of months. This can save you thousands compared with using a standard credit card, assuming you pay off the balance during the interest-free period. Read more: Average UK house asking price drops by almost £5,000 These cards are perfect for planned, necessary purchases. Think of them as a tool for managing big buys such as a new TV or essential home improvements. Let's say you take out a 0% purchase card with a 10-month interest-free period and spend £2,000 on new appliances. If you repay £200 each month, you'll clear the debt before the interest kicks in. However, if you still have a balance after the 10-month period, you'll start accruing interest at the standard rate, which can be as high as 27% annually. Key points: 1. Make sure to pay at least the minimum each month to keep the 0% deal. 2. Borrow only what you can comfortably repay within the 0% period. Steere said: 'TSB currently has the longest 0% purchase deal on the market at 25 months, narrowly ahead of M&S (MKS.L) and Barclaycard at 0% for 24 months. "If you're planning a large expenditure, like a summer holiday or some new garden furniture, the current range of 0% purchase cards could offer a handy way to spread the cost. None of these cards come with annual fees, but all of them revert to very standard (read 'punishing') rates after the 0% periods end. If you haven't cleared your balance at that point, look at a balance transfer deal.' Best cashback credit cards A cashback credit card rewards you with a percentage of your spending, effectively giving you back some of what you spend. For example, if your card offers 1% cashback and you spend £100 on groceries, you'll earn £1 back. This cashback is typically credited to your account or added to your statement. Read more: First-time buyers on £30k salary now able to apply for mortgage Things to watch out for: 1. Limits: Some cards cap the total cashback you can earn. 2. Introductory offers: Cashback rates might only apply for the first few months. 3. Restrictions: Some cashback offers are limited to specific purchases or retailers. 4. Minimum spend: Some cards require you to spend a certain amount to qualify for cashback. Steere said: "Amex (AXP) currently offers the highest introductory cashback rate: 5% (up to £125) for the first five months. After the five months, with the Everyday Amex you can earn 0.5% ongoing cashback (1% on annual spend over £10,000) or you can upgrade to the Amex Cashback Credit Card — which is currently free for the first year (£25/year thereafter) and lets you earn 5% (up to £125) for the first three months. "Afterwards, you can earn 0.75% ongoing cashback — the extra cashback covering the card fee once it kicks back in, provided you spend £10,000 on the card annually. However, if you want an instant welcome bonus, then Prime members can get a £50 Amazon welcome gift card with the Amazon (AMZN) Barclaycard.' Best credit cards for air miles If you travel frequently, a credit card for air miles can help reduce the cost of flights and even unlock perks like flight upgrades and hotel stays. By using these cards for everyday purchases, you can earn points that can be redeemed for flights with your favourite airline's loyalty programme. How it works: 1. Earn miles: Points are usually earned based on the amount you spend and the class of your ticket — premium tickets often earn more points. 2. Redeem points: You can use points to cover the cost of flights or upgrades, though taxes and fees may still apply. Steere said: 'For big rewards, the British Airways (IAG.L) American Express Premium Plus Card offers 30,000 Avios when you spend £6,000 in three months, while the Barclaycard Avios Plus Card gives 25,000 Avios for spending £3,000 in the same period. "Virgin Atlantic fans can earn 18,000 points with the Virgin Money Virgin Atlantic Reward Plus Credit Card by making their first purchase within 90 days. Just remember the cards with the biggest introductory reward offers are also the ones with the largest annual fees.' Best credit cards for holidays and travelling Planning a trip abroad? A specialist travel credit card can save you a bundle by offering near-perfect exchange rates without the usual foreign transaction fees. Most credit and debit cards charge around 3% on foreign transactions, meaning a £100 purchase abroad could cost you £103. On top of that, some cards add a flat fee for every overseas transaction. Specialist travel cards waive those fees, letting you spend abroad at the same rates your bank gets. Read more: How to use your Avios points for more than flight tickets Key points: 1. Avoid cash withdrawals, as they often come with fees and interest. 2. Use the card for spending abroad to enjoy near-perfect exchange rates. Steere said: 'If you're getting ready for the holiday season, there are great offers at the moment to help you avoid currency conversion fees overseas, and you can even earn cashback on your spending (at home or abroad). Just be sure to pay your card off in full each month to avoid paying interest (which would soon outweigh any cashback).' Disclaimer: The opinions expressed are the author's alone (unless stated otherwise) and have not been provided, approved, or otherwise endorsed by the providers listed. Yahoo does not earn any commissions from the lenders, or any other third party from the content in this in to access your portfolio

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