HSBC India is offering customers zero forex markup on all its credit cards for a period of one month from 15 August to 15 September 2026. According to reports from Mint, the lender aims to "provide better value for money to customers on international spending" through this promotional offer. Sandeep Batra, Head of International Wealth and Premier Banking, HSBC India, stated that the initiative ensures customers can spend internationally with greater clarity and value, while continuing to enjoy existing rewards and benefits on their cards.
The offer is valid on all HSBC credit cards, including the HSBC Premier Credit Card, HSBC Taj Credit Card, HSBC Live+ Credit Card, HSBC TravelOne Credit Card, HSBC Platinum Credit Card, and HSBC Prive Credit Card. As reported by Mint, the HSBC RuPay Cashback Card already offers zero forex markup on all international purchases since its launch in 2024, while the HSBC Prive Credit Card offers zero forex markup on all international purchases since its launch in 2025. During the offer period, both merchant point-of-sale and online foreign currency transactions on eligible HSBC credit cards will carry zero forex markup.
According to Paisabazaar analysis cited by Mint, foreign currency mark-up fees typically range between 1-3% of the transaction amount. For a $30 item using a foreign transaction enabled credit card, assuming a 2% mark-up fee and ₹90 per dollar exchange rate, the calculation shows a ₹54 mark-up fee plus ₹9.72 GST, resulting in a total transaction value of ₹2,763.72 ($30.70). The promotional offer allows customers to avoid these additional costs while continuing to enjoy existing card features and benefits.
HSBC credit card holders are not charged a Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC) fee, as reported by Mint. This means customers who choose to pay in their home currency (Rupee) instead of the local currency while travelling overseas avoid additional costs. The bank reiterated that this benefit continues to be a standing feature across all HSBC credit cards. The promotional offer provides customers with lower costs on eligible international spends and easier budgeting while maintaining existing card rewards and benefits.
