Pros and Cons Of Online Current Accounts - (2024)

Posted on Friday, August 11th, 2023 | By IndusInd Bank

In the rapidly evolving world of finance, the way we bank is changing. Amidst this digital transformation, online current accounts have emerged as a compelling innovation. But what exactly are these accounts, and how do they measure up against traditional banking?

This article delves into the core of online current accounts, analysing their key features, the benefits they offer, and the occasional drawbacks. Get ready to embark on an insightful journey that will redefine your understanding of online current accounts and help you make informed banking decisions.

Current accounts

A current account is a type of deposit account that caters primarily to businesses, firms and entrepreneurs. It helps manage large and frequent transactions safely and efficiently.

Nowadays, with the advent of digitalisation, online current account opening has gained immense popularity. It provides numerous facilities like overdrafts, pre-approved business loans, and even the unique feature of choosing your account number via IndusInd Bank’s MAMN facility (My Account My Number).

Features of current accounts

A current account is primarily aimed at businesses, firms, public enterprises and entrepreneurs that require frequent monetary transactions. Here are its key features:

• Unlimited transactions: Unlike savings accounts, current accounts allow unlimited transactions, catering to the high-volume transactional needs of businesses.
• Overdraft facility: Current accounts often come with an overdraft facility, allowing account holders to withdraw more money than what is available in their account.
• Auto sweep facility: In a typical current account, there are no interest earnings on the deposits. However, with the auto sweep facility, when the balance in the current account exceeds a specified limit, the excess amount is automatically transferred or “swept” into a fixed deposit. This allows businesses to earn interest on the idle funds in their current account. The funds from the fixed deposit can also be “swept” back into the current account as needed, ensuring liquidity is maintained.
• Dynamic cash deposit limits: With dynamic cash deposit limits, the cash deposit limit in your current account changes based on your business requirements. For businesses that see fluctuating volumes of cash transactions, this feature can be incredibly beneficial. It allows businesses to deposit cash beyond a standard limit without incurring additional charges, providing flexibility and convenience.
• Trade benefits: For businesses involved in foreign trade, current accounts offer various facilities like letters of credit, bank guarantees, and preferential foreign trade charges, making international business transactions more seamless and cost-effective.

Pros of online current accounts

Online current accounts, particularly like Indus Freedom Current Account, have emerged as a powerful tool for individuals and businesses alike. They provide a delightful blend of scale and convenience. Here are some significant advantages of Indus Freedom Current Account:

• Provide simplicity and efficiency: With online current accounts, banking has never been easier. You can open a digital current account with just a few clicks, right from the comfort of your home or office.
• Allow 24×7 access: The digital nature of online current accounts ensures round-the-clock accessibility, facilitating banking operations anytime, anywhere.
• No minimum balance requirement: Indus Freedom Current Account offers the benefit of no minimum balance requirement. This provides businesses with increased flexibility in managing their finances and eliminates the risk of fees due to insufficient funds.
• Minimal transaction requirement: Unlike many banking services that necessitate frequent transactions, the Indus Freedom Current Account maintains a relaxed approach. Account holders only need to complete one transaction per month, which can be done conveniently via online banking, the bank’s mobile app, or even an ATM. This ensures your account remains active without the obligation of constant usage.
• Complimentary payment services: Indus Freedom Current Account offers a significant advantage in the form of complimentary payment services. Unlike typical banks that charge additional fees for payment-related services, the Indus Freedom Current Account incorporates these services without any extra cost, adding another layer of convenience to your banking experience.
• Up to ₹4 lakh cash deposit every month: This feature allows businesses to deposit up to ₹4 lakhs in cash every month without incurring extra charges. It’s beneficial for businesses with significant cash transactions, providing a substantial monthly limit that accommodates larger amounts of cash inflow.
• Choose from a variety of debit card variants: The Indus Freedom Current Account gives businesses the freedom to choose from a variety of debit card variants. This could include cards with different benefits, such as higher withdrawal limits, rewards programs, or international transaction capabilities. This level of choice enables you to select a card that best fits the operational needs and spending habits of your business.

Online current accounts, particularly offerings like Indus Freedom Current Account, have certainly revolutionised the way businesses handle their finances, offering unparalleled convenience, flexibility, and efficiency.

Cons of online current accounts

While current accounts offer numerous benefits, they do have certain drawbacks:

• No interest or low interest: Traditionally, current accounts do not offer interest, and even if they do, the interest rates might not be as attractive as savings accounts.
• Minimum balance requirements: Some types of current accounts do have minimum balance requirements, failing which there could be penalties.

Is it advisable to use a current account for personal use?

The suitability of a current account for personal use largely depends on your banking needs. For those who deal with a high volume of transactions regularly, such as freelance professionals or self-employed individuals, a current account may be advantageous.

However, for individuals aiming to save money and earn interest, a savings account is a more advisable choice. It provides higher interest rates, encouraging you to save. It is generally better equipped for personal financial needs.

In conclusion

Online current accounts bring together the traditional benefits of a current account with the convenience of digital banking. They are instrumental in seamless business operations, providing various facilities like overdrafts, pre-approved business loans, and personalised account numbers.

Online current accounts offer unparalleled convenience for businesses and entrepreneurs. Moreover, the facilities provided to MSMEs through online current accounts are a testament to their relevance in today’s digital age.

If you are considering opening an online current account, IndusInd Bank is your ideal banking partner. The bank offers multiple facilities and provides a seamless online banking experience to its customers. Apply now and step into a world of quick and easy business banking.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is generic in nature and for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for specific advice in your own circ*mstances. Hence, you are advised to consult your financial advisor before making any financial decision. IndusInd Bank Limited (IBL) does not influence the views of the author in any way. IBL and the author shall not be responsible for any direct/indirect loss or liability incurred by the reader for taking any financial decisions based on the contents and information.