Introduction
The ICICI Bank Emeralde Private Metal Credit Card is a premium offering designed for individuals seeking luxurious lifestyle benefits and exclusive privileges. Marketed with the tagline "Live Luxury, Live Metal," this credit card stands out not only for its sophisticated metal design but also for its extensive array of benefits that cater to high-net-worth individuals. The card provides a blend of luxury, convenience, and rewards, positioning itself as an ideal choice for those who prioritize upscale experiences and comprehensive service offerings.
The Emeralde Private Metal Credit Card includes complimentary memberships, significant reward points, and various lifestyle benefits that underscore its premium status. Key features include complimentary stays with Taj Epicure Membership, EazyDiner Prime Membership, annual reward points, and comprehensive travel and insurance benefits. These attributes, combined with competitive reward redemption rates and concierge services, make the card a strong contender among metal credit cards in India.
Joining Benefits of ICICI Bank Emeralde Private Metal Credit Card
- Welcome Bonus:
- No specific welcome bonus, but offers premium benefits upon card activation.
- Airport Lounge Access:
- Unlimited complimentary access to international and domestic airport lounges.
- Luxury Hotel Membership:
- Complimentary membership to the Leading Hotels of the World (LHW) and Club Marriott.
- Dining Privileges:
- Up to 40% off on dining at select restaurants through ICICI Bank's Culinary Treats program.
- Golf Privileges:
- Unlimited complimentary golf rounds and lessons at select golf courses in India.
- Reward Points:
- Earn 1 Reward Point for every โน100 spent on all retail transactions (excluding fuel).
- Concierge Services:
- 24/7 global concierge service for travel, dining, and entertainment arrangements.
- Fuel Surcharge Waiver:
- 1% waiver on fuel surcharge at all petrol pumps across India.
- Wellness Benefits:
- Complimentary access to top spas and fitness centers.
- Insurance Cover:
- Complimentary personal air accident cover of up to โน3 crore.
- Annual Fee Waiver:
- No annual fee, provided the monthly fee of โน12,000 is applicable. This monthly fee is waived off on achieving a spend of โน1 lakh in the previous month.
- Interest-Free Period:
- Up to 48 days of interest-free credit.
Card Features and Benefits
The ICICI Bank Emeralde Private Metal Credit Card is designed to offer a comprehensive suite of features and benefits, catering to the luxurious and high-end lifestyle of its users. Below is a detailed overview of its primary features and benefits:
1. Membership and Luxury Benefits
Taj Epicure Membership:
- Complimentary one-year membership.
- 25% discount on food and beverages (dine-in and takeaway).
- 20% discount on orders via the Qmin app, spa usage, and salon services at Taj hotels.
- One-time use vouchers for 20% off on room/suite bookings at select hotels, Taj Palaces, and Taj Safaris (maximum of 5 nights each).
EazyDiner Prime Membership:
- Complimentary one-year membership.
- Guaranteed 25% to 50% discounts at over 3,000 top restaurants in India and Dubai.
- Free cake or dessert at select restaurants on special occasions.
- 2,000 Eazypoints as an onboarding bonus.
2. Reward Points
Joining and Annual Bonus:
- 12,500 ICICI Reward Points as a joining bonus upon realization of the joining fee and card activation.
- 12,500 ICICI Reward Points as an annual bonus upon realization of the annual fee.
Earning Points:
- 6 ICICI Bank Reward Points for every โน200 spent on retail transactions (excluding tax, fuel, and rent payments).
- Similar rate for grocery, education, utilities, and insurance payments, with category caps per statement cycle:
- Grocery, Utilities, and Education: Maximum 1,000 points per category.
- Insurance payments: Maximum 5,000 points.
Redemption:
- Points can be redeemed for a variety of options including electronics, lifestyle products, shopping, and travel.
- 1 Reward Point equals โน1.
3. Travel and Lounge Access
EaseMyTrip Air Travel Vouchers:
- Earn up to โน6,000 in travel vouchers annually.
- 1st voucher worth โน3,000 on spending โน4 lakh.
- 2nd voucher worth โน3,000 on spending โน8 lakh within an anniversary year.
International Lounge Access:
- Complimentary Priority Pass Membership for primary and supplementary cardholders.
- Access to 1,300+ lounges in 148 countries and 600 cities worldwide.
Domestic Lounge Access:
- Complimentary access to select lounges in Indian airports for primary and supplementary cardholders.
4. Insurance Benefits
- Personal Accident Insurance: โน3 crore coverage for air accident death.
- Purchase Protection: โน1.4 lakh coverage for purchase protection.
- Credit Shield: โน1 lakh coverage in the event of the cardholder's demise.
5. Additional Perks
Zero Cancellation Charges:
- Refund of up to โน12,000 for a maximum of two transactions annually for hotel, flight, travel, and movie ticket bookings made using the card.
Foreign Currency Mark-up:
- Low mark-up fee of 2% on foreign currency transactions.
Fuel Surcharge Waiver:
- 1% waiver at all petrol pumps on transactions up to โน4,000, with a maximum waiver of โน1,000 per statement cycle.
Concierge Services:
- 24x7 concierge service available for a wide range of needs, from booking travel and hotel reservations to making restaurant bookings and delivering movie tickets.
User Experience
The ICICI Bank Emeralde Private Metal Credit Card is designed to offer a seamless and luxurious experience for its users. Below is an overview of the user experience based on the card's features and benefits:
1. Application and Activation
Application Process:
- The application process for the ICICI Bank Emeralde Private Metal Credit Card is straightforward and can be completed online through the ICICI Bank website or via physical application forms at ICICI Bank branches. The process involves submitting necessary documents, including proof of income, identity, and address.
Card Activation:
- Once approved, the card is delivered in a premium package, emphasizing its luxury status. Activation can be done through ICICI Bankโs iMobile Pay App or via internet banking, ensuring quick and hassle-free access to the cardโs benefits.
2. Daily Usage
Transaction Convenience:
- The card is widely accepted both domestically and internationally, making it suitable for a variety of transactions. The low foreign currency mark-up fee of 2% enhances its attractiveness for frequent international travelers.
Reward Points Accumulation:
- Users can easily accumulate reward points on everyday spending categories, including retail, grocery, education, utilities, and insurance payments. The straightforward redemption process through internet banking or the iMobile Pay App ensures that users can quickly benefit from their accumulated points.
Managing the Card:
- The iMobile Pay App and ICICI Bankโs internet banking platform offer robust tools for managing the card. Users can view transaction history, manage credit limits, block/unblock the card, and convert transactions to EMI, providing greater control and flexibility.
3. Customer Support and Assistance
Concierge Services:
- The 24x7 concierge service available through iAssist enhances the user experience by offering assistance with a wide range of needs, from finding the perfect gift to making travel arrangements and restaurant reservations.
Customer Service:
- ICICI Bank provides dedicated customer support for Emeralde cardholders, ensuring prompt and efficient resolution of any issues or queries. The availability of toll-free numbers and standard call options ensures accessibility.
4. Travel and Lifestyle Benefits
Lounge Access:
- The complimentary Priority Pass membership and domestic lounge access significantly enhance the travel experience for cardholders, offering comfort and convenience at airports worldwide.
Dining and Lifestyle Privileges:
- The complimentary Taj Epicure and EazyDiner Prime memberships offer substantial savings and exclusive benefits, making dining and lifestyle experiences more enjoyable and rewarding.
5. Security and Protection
Insurance Coverage:
- The comprehensive insurance benefits, including personal accident insurance, purchase protection, and credit shield, provide peace of mind to cardholders, ensuring they are protected against unforeseen events.
Transaction Security:
- ICICI Bank employs advanced security measures, including two-factor authentication and secure transaction alerts, to protect cardholders from fraud and unauthorized transactions.
Overall, the ICICI Bank Emeralde Private Metal Credit Card provides a high level of convenience, luxury, and security, ensuring a superior user experience for its cardholders.
Additional Perks and Benefits
The ICICI Bank Emeralde Private Metal Credit Card is designed to offer a plethora of additional perks and benefits that enhance the overall cardholder experience. These perks cater to various aspects of lifestyle, travel, and financial management, providing significant value beyond the standard features.
1. Comprehensive Insurance Coverage
Personal Accident Insurance:
- Coverage of โน3 crore for air accident death, providing substantial financial security for cardholders and their families.
Purchase Protection:
- Coverage of up to โน1.4 lakh, ensuring that purchases made with the card are protected against theft or damage within a specified period.
Credit Shield:
- Coverage of โน1 lakh in the event of the cardholderโs demise, offering financial protection for outstanding dues.
2. Zero Cancellation Charges
- Cardholders can avail zero cancellation charges on hotel, flight, travel, and movie ticket bookings made using the ICICI Bank Emeralde Private Metal Credit Card.
- This benefit allows for refunds of up to โน12,000 for a maximum of two transactions every year, providing flexibility and peace of mind when making travel and entertainment plans.
3. Fuel Surcharge Waiver
- The card offers a 1% fuel surcharge waiver at all petrol pumps for transactions up to โน4,000.
- Cardholders can avail a maximum waiver of โน1,000 per statement cycle, making it a cost-effective option for frequent drivers.
4. Concierge Services
iAssist Concierge:
- The 24x7 concierge service provides assistance with a wide range of needs, including:
- Finding and delivering the perfect gift.
- Making restaurant reservations.
- Booking travel and hotel reservations.
- Securing movie tickets.
Access:
- Cardholders can access the concierge service by calling the toll-free number 1800 26 70731 (for MTNL/BSNL users) or 022 6787 2016 (standard call charges apply).
5. Low Foreign Currency Mark-up Fee
- The card offers a competitive foreign currency mark-up fee of just 2%, making it an attractive option for international travelers who frequently make purchases in foreign currencies.
6. EaseMyTrip Air Travel Vouchers
- Cardholders receive EaseMyTrip air travel vouchers worth โน6,000 annually, split into two vouchers of โน3,000 each.
- The first voucher is awarded upon spending โน4 lakh, and the second voucher upon reaching โน8 lakh in annual spending.
- This benefit encourages and rewards frequent travelers, offering savings on travel expenses.
7. Reward Redemption Options
Versatile Redemption:
- ICICI Reward Points can be redeemed across various categories such as electronics, lifestyle products, luxury items, shopping, and travel.
- The redemption process is user-friendly and can be done via internet banking or the iMobile Pay App, providing flexibility and ease of use.
8. Dining and Lifestyle Privileges
Taj Epicure Membership:
- One-year complimentary membership with significant discounts on dining, spa services, and salon services at Taj hotels.
- One-time use vouchers for substantial discounts on room/suite bookings, enhancing the luxury travel experience.
EazyDiner Prime Membership:
- One-year complimentary membership offering significant discounts at over 3,000 top restaurants in India and Dubai, along with additional perks such as free cakes or desserts on special occasions.
These additional perks and benefits make the ICICI Bank Emeralde Private Metal Credit Card a highly attractive option for those seeking a premium and rewarding credit card experience. The card's extensive features cater to a luxurious lifestyle, ensuring that cardholders receive exceptional value and service.
Comparative Analysis: ICICI Bank Emeralde Private Metal Credit Card vs. Other Premium Credit Cards in the Indian Market
| ๏ปฟFeature/Benefit | ICICI Bank Emeralde Private Metal Credit Card | HDFC Infinia Credit Card | American Express Platinum Card | SBI Card ELITE |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Annual Fee | โน12,000 + GST | โน10,000 + GST | โน60,000 + GST | โน4,999 + GST |
| Welcome/Joining Bonus | 12,500 ICICI Reward Points | 12,500 Reward Points | 1,00,000 Membership Rewards Points | 5,000 Reward Points + โน5,000 worth vouchers |
| Reward Points | 6 points/โน200 spent | 5 points/โน150 spent | 1 Membership Rewards Point per โน40 spent | 2 Reward Points/โน100 spent |
| Point Value | โน1 per point | โน1 per point | โน0.50 per point (approx.) | โน0.25 per point (approx.) |
| Lounge Access | Domestic & International (Priority Pass) | Domestic & International (Priority Pass) | Domestic & International (Centurion, Priority Pass) | Domestic & International (Priority Pass) |
| Dining Benefits | Taj Epicure & EazyDiner Prime Membership | Discounts via Good Food Trail Dining Program | Discounts and privileges at select restaurants | Discounts via SBI Card Prime Restaurant Program |
| Travel Benefits | EaseMyTrip vouchers up to โน6,000 annually | Complimentary Club Marriott Membership | Hotel credits, Fine Hotels & Resorts program | Yatra.com vouchers up to โน8,000 annually |
| Insurance Coverage | Personal Accident: โน3 crore, Purchase Protection: โน1.4 lakh, Credit Shield: โน1 lakh | Personal Accident: โน3 crore, Travel Inconvenience: โน55,000 | Travel Accident: โน5 crore, Travel Inconvenience: โน1.5 lakh | Travel Insurance, Fraud Liability Cover |
| Foreign Currency Mark-up Fee | 2% | 2% | 3.50% | 3.50% |
| Fuel Surcharge Waiver | 1% (up to โน1,000/month) | 1% (up to โน500/month) | None | 1% (up to โน250/month) |
| Concierge Services | 24x7 iAssist Concierge | 24x7 Infinia Concierge | 24x7 Platinum Concierge | 24x7 ELITE Concierge |
| Additional Perks | Zero cancellation charges on travel bookings | Golf privileges, access to wellness programs | Premium event access, exclusive experiences | Movie ticket offers, exclusive event access |
Key Takeaways
- Annual Fee and Joining Bonus:
- The ICICI Bank Emeralde Private Metal Credit Card has a higher annual fee compared to the HDFC Infinia and SBI Card ELITE but lower than the American Express Platinum Card.
- The joining bonus is competitive, with significant reward points offered at par with HDFC Infinia and exceeding SBI Card ELITE.
- Reward Points and Redemption:
- ICICI Emeralde offers a higher reward point value (โน1 per point) compared to other cards.
- It provides a balanced reward earning rate, making it attractive for high spenders.
- Lounge and Travel Benefits:
- ICICI Emeralde, HDFC Infinia, and American Express Platinum offer comprehensive lounge access via Priority Pass.
- Travel benefits, including vouchers and memberships, are robust across all cards, with ICICI Emeralde providing EaseMyTrip vouchers and Taj Epicure benefits.
- Dining and Lifestyle Perks:
- ICICI Emeralde excels with its Taj Epicure and EazyDiner Prime memberships, offering substantial dining discounts and exclusive privileges.
- Other cards also offer dining discounts but may not match the comprehensive nature of the ICICI Emeralde's offerings.
- Insurance and Protection:
- The ICICI Emeralde provides extensive insurance coverage, particularly for personal accidents, making it competitive with HDFC Infinia and American Express Platinum.
- Foreign Currency Mark-up Fee:
- ICICI Emeralde and HDFC Infinia both offer a low foreign currency mark-up fee of 2%, which is beneficial for frequent international travelers.
- Additional Perks:
- Unique benefits like zero cancellation charges on travel bookings make ICICI Emeralde stand out.
- All cards offer concierge services, but the ICICI Emeraldeโs 24x7 iAssist Concierge adds to its premium service appeal.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- High Reward Point Value:
- Each reward point is worth โน1, offering significant value compared to other premium cards.
- Extensive Travel Benefits:
- Complimentary Priority Pass membership for both domestic and international lounge access.
- EaseMyTrip air travel vouchers worth โน6,000 annually.
- Luxury Dining and Lifestyle Privileges:
- Complimentary Taj Epicure and EazyDiner Prime memberships with substantial discounts and exclusive benefits.
- Comprehensive Insurance Coverage:
- High coverage for personal accidents, purchase protection, and credit shield.
- Low Foreign Currency Mark-up Fee:
- A competitive 2% fee on foreign currency transactions, ideal for frequent international travelers.
- Zero Cancellation Charges:
- Refund of up to โน12,000 for a maximum of two transactions annually on hotel, flight, and movie ticket bookings.
- Robust Concierge Services:
- 24x7 iAssist Concierge service providing assistance with a wide range of personal and travel needs.
Cons
- High Annual Fee:
- The annual fee of โน12,000 + GST might be considered steep compared to some other premium cards.
- Category Caps on Reward Points:
- Reward points for grocery, utilities, and education spending are capped, which might limit earning potential for high spenders in these categories.
- No Reward Points on Fuel Transactions:
- While there is a fuel surcharge waiver, no reward points are earned on fuel purchases.
- Complex Reward Redemption Process:
- Some users might find the redemption process through internet banking or the iMobile Pay App slightly cumbersome.
Conclusion and Overall Rating
The ICICI Bank Emeralde Private Metal Credit Card stands out as a premium offering in the Indian credit card market, tailored for individuals seeking luxury and exclusivity. Its array of features, including significant reward points, comprehensive travel benefits, and extensive lifestyle perks, position it as a formidable competitor among other high-end credit cards. The cardโs robust reward program, coupled with valuable memberships such as Taj Epicure and EazyDiner Prime, enhances its appeal to high-net-worth individuals who prioritize upscale experiences.
Moreover, the additional perks like zero cancellation charges on travel bookings, extensive insurance coverage, and a low foreign currency mark-up fee further contribute to its attractiveness. The seamless user experience, supported by efficient customer service and a versatile digital management platform, ensures cardholders enjoy convenience and control.
Overall, the ICICI Bank Emeralde Private Metal Credit Card offers exceptional value and luxury, making it an excellent choice for those who demand the best in lifestyle and financial services. This concludes the review of the ICICI Bank Emeralde Private Metal Credit Card. If you need any further information or have additional questions, feel free to ask!
