Exclusive credit cards are often associated with wealth and privilege, but using one can be more about being noticed than having deep pockets. Many of these swank cards are invite-only, with little to no confirmed information about how to get on the list.
For the fortunate few, the benefits of these status-symbol cards can help you live the high life. Depending on the card, special concierge services, access to private planes and VIP experiences can all come with card membership.
For most people, having a credit card is about convenience and rewards. But for billionaires, elite credit cards go far beyond that – they are an exclusive status symbol and provide access to luxury perks and services. So what card do billionaires carry in their wallets? Let’s take an inside look at some of the most exclusive credit cards meant only for the super rich.
The Centurion Card by American Express
The most legendary and recognizable luxury card is the Centurion Card from American Express, known as the “Black Card.” Widely regarded as the most exclusive credit card in the world, the Black Card has reached an almost mythical status as a marker of wealth and privilege
American Express doesn’t publish details about the Black Card, adding to its mystery and appeal But it’s rumored to have a $10,000 initiation fee and $5,000 annual fee Black Card holders reportedly receive complimentary benefits like 24/7 concierge service, access to airport lounges, and special invites to high-profile events.
Perhaps most impressively, the Black Card has no pre-set spending limit. Card holders can spend whatever they want – literally millions of dollars if they choose. You can’t request the Black Card though; American Express only sends invitations to its richest and most loyal card members. So you’ll need to be spending at ultra elite levels on other Amex cards first.
JPMorgan Chase Palladium Card
Issued by Chase Private Banking division, the JPMorgan Chase Palladium Card competes directly with the Centurion. It’s also only available by invitation to Chase’s wealthiest clients, like those who keep millions on deposit at the bank or investors with huge portfolios.
The Palladium impresses with a reported $595 annual fee, unlimited airport lounge visits, special dining and entertainment privileges, and complimentary hotel/resort benefits. While not at the Centurion’s level, it’s still packed with VIP treatment like a personal card representative and travel agent.
One standout detail about the Palladium Card is that it’s made with actual palladium and 23 carat gold. With a weight of 28 grams, it has a luxurious heft announcing the card holder’s net worth.
Dubai First Royale Mastercard
For the ultra wealthy based in the Middle East, the Dubai First Royale Mastercard from UAE’s Emirates NBD Bank offers royal treatment. It’s the most premium card from a regional bank that caters exclusively to the rich.
The Royale Card provides unlimited lounge access, complimentary nights at 5-star hotels, and VIP services across travel, dining, and entertainment. But its most stunning perk is the card design itself – coated in pure gold and encrusted with diamonds!
Only elite customers of Emirates Bank can acquire this card after depositing several million dollars. With its lavish materials and appearance, the Royale Card is specifically intended to show off extreme wealth.
Stratus Rewards Visa Card
America’s largest private bank, Northern Trust, offers its high net worth clients the Stratus Rewards Visa Infinite Card. With no official income or asset requirements published, you’ll need to be an elite Northern Trust client first before qualifying for an invitation.
Stratus Rewards offers the usual upscale card perks of personal advisors, unlimited lounge visits, premium travel benefits, and special dining/shopping offers. Where it differs is by letting users redeem rewards points for actual luxury items from retailers like Gucci, Harry Winston, and Net Jets private air travel. This unique rewards system makes the card a status symbol for Northern Trust’s wealthiest customers.
Coutts Silk Charge Card
Dating back to the 17th century, London-based Coutts Bank offers exclusive services to British elites and royalty. So its Coutts Silk Charge Card is naturally tailored for the UK’s most affluent.
With no annual fee, the Silk Card focuses on custom rewards to suit each card holder’s lifestyle, like extra points for yachting services or private jet charters. Users also get access to Coutts’ in-house luxury concierge and invitations to exclusive sporting and cultural events. Applicants though must keep £3 million on deposit at Coutts Bank to qualify.
Mastercard Gold Elite
From Australia’s Commonwealth Bank, the Mastercard Gold Elite is that country’s most prestigious card targeting high net worth individuals. You’ll need $400,000 in assets with the bank to qualify.
It comes with strong travel benefits like airport lounge access, luxury hotel upgrades, and complimentary first-class flight tickets. An assigned relationship manager provides personalized service for any request. For local status, card holders can flaunt Australia-centric perks like an annual membership to the prestigious Qantas Chairman’s Lounge.
So while regular credit cards offer basic rewards and protections, these elite cards cater exclusively to billionaires and provide the type of extravagant luxury one would expect from such astronomical wealth. From diamond-encrusted designs to 24/7 concierge service, they exist on an elevated level above everyday plastic. The exclusive requirements also perpetuate their status as signs of extreme fortune and privilege.
What annual fee do luxurious credit cards charge?
Since invitation-only credit cards don’t advertise their terms and conditions, we can only guess what most luxurious cards charge in fees. The Centurion® Card from American Express* is one of the few invitation-only cards that publicly displays its $5,000 annual fee. Other luxurious credit cards are more affordable: the Mastercard® Gold Card™ is “only” $995 ($295 for each authorized user added to the account) per year, and its 24-karat gold design is undeniably luxurious.
What is the rarest credit card to have?
The rarest credit card is likely one we have never heard of. Some exclusive credit cards are kept under wraps without gossip about their existence. However, the Dubai First Royale Mastercard* is rumored to be the rarest credit card in the world, with cardholders only numbering in the hundreds. This can also make it one of the hardest credit cards to get.
Do Billionaires Use Credit Cards
FAQ
What credit card do the richest people use?
Unique cards for wealthy people include the American Express Centurion Card (Amex Black Card) and J.P. Morgan Reserve Card. However, rich people use various types of credit cards that are generally available to anyone who qualifies, such as The Platinum Card® from American Express and Chase Sapphire Reserve®.
What’s the most prestigious credit card?
The American Express Centurion Card, often called the “Black Card”, is widely considered the most prestigious credit card. It’s an invitation-only card, renowned for its exclusivity and luxury perks.
What credit card does Elon use?
Elon Musk’s X said it has struck a deal with Visa, the largest U.S. credit card network, to be the first partner for what it is calling the X Money Account. Read more: cnb.cx/3ErkLRW. Sure… give your money to Elon … he needs more.
What is the elite credit card?
Elite credit cards offer benefits above and beyond standard rewards cards or travel cards, including travel credits, airport lounge access and big welcome offers. However, these perks come at a cost — often in the form of annual fees in excess of $400.