Tana Malinga
FNB Premier is marking 25 years, and the bank’s latest customer data paints a clear picture: South Africa’s middle income professionals are using money smarter, going digital, and grabbing more value than ever.
Garth Keshwar, FNB Personal Core Banking Product Head, says today’s middle income earners are “aspirational, responsible, and focused on financial confidence.” The numbers back him up.
25 YEARS OF FNB PREMIER IN NUMBERS
- R5 billion in eBucks earned
- Over 90 percent of customers banking digitally
- 8 million FNB App logins monthly
- 81 percent prefer the App for transactions
- 53 percent personalise their App home screens
- More than half actively save or invest
- R35 million travel discounts redeemed in one year
- 117 000 SLOW Lounge visits and 50 000 eBucks funded flights
DIGITAL IS NOW THE DEFAULT
FNB Premier customers log into the App an average of 40 times a month. Many use “Just for You” insights and security alerts to stay in control of their money. Keshwar says digital banking has shifted from “convenience to daily habit.”
SAVING AND FINANCIAL WELLBEING
More than half of Premier customers save or invest using tools like Smart Budget, Nav Money, Nav Car, and Nav Home. Those who use these tools tend to manage credit better and build stronger long term wealth.
REWARDS THAT REALLY WORK
Customers have earned R5 billion and spent R4.5 billion in eBucks since 2000. They earn most of their rewards on fuel and groceries, but spend most of them on lifestyle items, especially travel and Takealot purchases.
In the past year alone, Premier clients redeemed R35 million in travel discounts, made 117 000 SLOW Lounge visits, and booked 50 000 flights. Keshwar says rewards help customers “stretch their rands and enjoy life when they can.”
CREDIT THAT BUILDS CONFIDENCE
According to Thabiso Tshabalala, FNB Credit Card Product Head, customers enjoy up to 55 days interest-free, flexible repayments and strong protection features. Since 2017, Premier credit products have saved customers around R4 million in interest.
25 YEARS OF PROGRESS
Keshwar says the middle class continues to show resilience despite rising costs. “Even in tough conditions, they find ways to grow. Our role is to support that journey and make progress sustainable.”
