According to Instarem platform data, the Amaze card operates as a Mastercard debit product that lets users stack credit card rewards with foreign exchange spending, though a series of structural program changes have steadily reduced its initial offerings since launch. Originally designed in 2021 as a vital tool for miles chasers seeking overseas travel rewards, the card has weathered continuous benefit adjustments—ranging from reward exclusions to newly introduced domestic fees—while maintaining distinct advantages for specific spending categories.
Understanding How Amaze Works As A Passthrough Debit Card
According to Instarem terms, Amaze functions as a debit card funded either through a dedicated Amaze Wallet or a paired Singapore-issued Mastercard debit or credit card. When linked directly to a credit card, the system acts as a digital passthrough, instantly billing foreign currency amounts into Singapore Dollars via an internal exchange rate before charging the linked card at the end of each monthly cycle. This mechanism allows cardholders to retain existing merchant category codes and earn online spending bonuses from compatible credit cards, such as the Citi Rewards Card, without paying traditional bank foreign currency transaction fees.
Pro tip: You can check merchant category codes before making a purchase by disabling online, in-store, and overseas switches in the Instarem app and attempting a test transaction, allowing you to review the exact code in your activity tab before running a card-linked payment.
Comparing Wallet-Linked And Card-Linked Transaction Methods
Users must choose between two distinct funding structures that affect exchange rates and rewards generation. According to Instarem platform documentation, wallet-linked transactions draw from pre-loaded foreign currencies or local SGD balances in the Amaze Wallet, offering transparent mid-market exchange rates and earning InstaPoints redeemable for KrisFlyer miles at an implicit rate of 0.17 miles per dollar. Conversely, card-linked transactions route purchases directly through an eligible credit card, bypassing wallet top-ups to secure full credit card rewards despite a current currency exchange rate spread of approximately 2% over Mastercard rates.
| Feature | Amaze Wallet | Linked Credit Card |
|---|---|---|
| Rewards Earned | InstaPoints (0.17 mpd equivalent) | Full credit card reward points (up to 4 mpd) |
| Exchange Rate Transparency | Favourable rates visible in-app prior to spend | Opaque internal rate determined upon completion |
| Transaction Limits | S$15K wallet balance cap, S$75K annual limit | Governed entirely by the linked credit card limits |
Navigating Program Changes and SGD Domestic Fees
According to program updates, Instarem implemented a 1% domestic fee for all Singapore Dollar transactions processed through card-linked Amaze accounts, following a sequence of prior nerfs that removed cashback options and restricted InstaPoints earnings. Despite these adjustments, cardholders continue utilizing the setup to transform offline in-store purchases into online transactions, particularly when pairing the card with rewards-optimized products like the Citi Rewards Card, Maybank XL Rewards, or OCBC Rewards Card.
Did you know? If your physical Amaze card expires, replacements do not arrive automatically; you must manually request a new card through the Instarem app within 45 days of expiration to receive a replacement with a new card number and CVV.
Frequently Asked Questions About Using Amaze
Can I earn credit card rewards on all foreign currency spend?
Yes, card-linked transactions earn rewards from all major card issuers except where specific exclusion categories apply, such as transit, AXS payments, or wallet top-ups.
How do I handle fraudulent transactions on my account?
According to consumer guidance, users must file fraud disputes directly with Instarem rather than the issuing bank, as banks treat transactions authorized via initial OTP setups as legitimate payments made to Amaze.
What is the minimum income requirement for the Amaze card?
There is no minimum income requirement or annual fee, and applications can be processed instantly through the Instarem mobile application for iOS and Android devices.
Why do hotel check-ins pose a risk with Amaze?
Because Amaze operates technically as a debit card, temporary authorisation holds placed by hotels or car rental agencies trigger immediate charges and subsequent refunds on your linked credit card, exposing you to potential losses from exchange rate fluctuations.
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