Money saving apps and traditional banks are both financial tools that offer ways to save and manage money, but they have distinct characteristics and features. As financial institutions, they both serve different purposes and cater to different needs.
In this article, we will do a comparison of both to help you understand their strengths and weaknesses.
How money saving apps work
Savings apps are designed to be user-friendly and accessible on mobile devices. They often have intuitive interfaces and are optimized for mobile use. Other features of savings' apps in Nigeria include:
● Low Fees
Many savings apps have lower fees compared to traditional banks. Some even offer fee-free services or charge minimal fees for specific transactions.
● Round-up features
Some savings apps offer round-up features, where they round up your transactions to the nearest naira and save the spare change. This can help users save without even noticing.
● Goal-oriented
Savings apps often have goal-setting features that allow users to set specific savings targets and track their progress towards achieving them.
● Innovative features
Savings apps are known to offer innovative features like cashback rewards, high-yield savings accounts, and various investment options.
● Automated savings
Many apps have automatic savings features that allow users to set up recurring transfers from their bank accounts to their savings accounts on a schedule that suits them.
● Financial tracking
With money saving apps, users can track their savings progress, view account balances, and monitor their financial transactions through the app.
● Personalized insights
Some apps offer personalized insights and recommendations based on users’ spending and saving patterns to help them make better financial decisions.
● Budgeting tools
Savings apps in Nigeria may include budgeting tools that help users set spending limits and track expenses to stay on top of their finances.
● Security features
To ensure the safety of users’ financial data, savings apps typically use encryption and other security measures to protect against unauthorized access.
● Integration with other apps
Some savings apps can integrate with other financial apps, budgeting tools, or investment platforms to provide a comprehensive financial management experience.
How traditional banks work
Unlike savings apps, traditional banks offer a wide range of financial services, including savings accounts, checking accounts, loans, credit cards, and investment products.
Some of their features include:
● Physical branches
Traditional banks have physical branch locations, which can be beneficial for in-person assistance and services.
● Established reputation
Many people trust traditional banks because of their long-standing reputation and regulatory oversight.
● NDIC insurance
Deposits in traditional banks are insured by the Nigerian Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC), providing an added layer of security for account holders.
● Broad ATM network
Traditional banks usually have a vast ATM network, making it convenient for customers to access cash without incurring additional fees.
● Financial advisory
Banks may provide financial advisory services to help customers manage their money, plan for the future, and achieve their financial goals.
● Business banking
Traditional banks cater to businesses by offering business checking accounts, business loans, and commercial banking services.
● Wire transfers and payments
Banks facilitate domestic and international wire transfers and offer bill payment services.
● Online and mobile banking
Many traditional banks offer online and mobile banking platforms that allow customers to manage their accounts, transfer funds, and perform various banking tasks remotely.
● Mobile apps
Banks provide mobile apps for smartphones and tablets, enabling customers to access their accounts and perform transactions on the go.
● Overdraft protection
Banks offer overdraft protection to prevent transactions from being declined due to insufficient funds, though it may involve fees.
Interest Rates of money saving apps and traditional banks
Savings apps and traditional banks both offer savings accounts, but they have different interest rates.
Savings apps typically offer higher interest rates than traditional banks.
Here is a comparison of the interest rates offered by savings apps and traditional banks in Nigeria.
How money saving apps are shaping the future of banking in Nigeria
Savings apps are playing a significant role in shaping the future of banking by introducing innovative features, improving customer experience, and promoting financial inclusion.
Some ways in which savings apps are influencing the future of banking in Nigeria may include:
● Digital transformation
Savings apps are at the forefront of the digital transformation in the banking industry.
They offer user-friendly mobile interfaces and convenient features that cater to the preferences of tech-savvy customers.
● Financial inclusion
Savings apps have the potential to reach a broader audience, including the unbanked and underbanked populations.
By providing accessible and easy-to-use financial tools, savings apps promote financial inclusion and allow more people to participate in the formal banking system.
● Automation
Many savings apps offer automated savings features. These features encourage consistent savings habits and make saving effortless for users.
● Fintech innovation
Savings apps are often developed by fintech companies, which are known for their agility and innovative mindset.
Their constant pursuit of new solutions and technologies pushes traditional banks to adapt and innovate.
● Lower fees and minimum balances
Savings apps may have lower or no-account maintenance fees and lower minimum balance requirements compared to traditional banks.
This makes them more accessible to individuals with limited financial resources.
● Data analytics and personalisation
By analysing user behaviour and preferences, savings apps can offer personalized recommendations and services, improving customer engagement and loyalty.
Ultimately, the choice between savings apps and traditional banks depends on your individual preferences, financial needs, and goals.
If you prefer a simple, mobile-centric experience and want to take advantage of innovative features, savings apps might be a good fit.
On the other hand, if you value a full suite of financial services, a physical presence, and the reassurance of an established institution, a traditional bank may be more suitable.
Some individuals choose to use both money saving apps and traditional banks, taking advantage of the unique benefits each offer.
Whichever option you choose, it's essential to compare the features, fees, and benefits of different providers to find the one that aligns best with your financial goals.
nairaCompare has tools and features that will guide you through comparing loans, savings and investment options.
