Revolut Review

Currency Exchange and International Payments

Revolut built much of its reputation on making global money movement fast and affordable. At the heart of this capability is its multi-currency feature, allowing users to hold and exchange over 25 currencies from a single app. Users can convert funds at interbank rates during weekdays and send them to other Revolut users or external bank accounts with minimal fees.

If you’re a traveler or remote worker dealing with multiple currencies this is a big plus. The app tracks real time exchange rates and has low cost transfers to over 200 countries. Compared to banks or other money transfer services the cost savings can be huge especially if you’re on a paid plan with higher free exchange limits.

But be aware of a few things. Weekend currency conversions come with a markup, so if you’re not careful when you convert your funds it can add to the overall cost. And while most transfers are fast some international transfers may take a couple of business days depending on the recipient’s bank and country.

Users can also set up recurring payments and split bills with friends in different countries. These tools help simplify complex multi-currency scenarios and are especially useful for people with international commitments, like freelancers paid in multiple currencies or families with global ties. In short, Revolut continues to offer one of the more competitive options for cross-border payments and currency exchange, though users need to be aware of timing and plan limits to fully optimize it.

Card Features and Spending Management

Revolut provides users with a range of card options, each built to support modern spending habits. Users can choose between physical debit cards, virtual cards for online transactions, and single-use disposable cards that expire after one use. The cards are linked directly to the user’s Revolut account and work seamlessly for both local and international purchases.

One standout feature is the ability to create and manage multiple virtual cards, which can help protect against online fraud. The app also includes granular control over your card settings. You can freeze or unfreeze cards, set monthly budgets, control ATM usage, and enable or disable contactless, swipe, or online payments.

Spending insights are automatically generated, helping users visualize where their money goes. These analytics break down expenses by category, like groceries, travel, or subscriptions, making it easier to spot patterns and stick to budgets. There’s also a built-in savings tool called “Vaults,” which allows users to round up purchases and save the spare change.

The experience is enhanced by instant notifications for every transaction. This real-time feedback helps users keep track of spending and detect unauthorized charges quickly. For frequent travelers, Revolut cards work globally and often provide better exchange rates than local banks or currency booths. However, occasional reports of card declines or payment issues during travel exist. These are usually linked to insufficient balances or anti-fraud measures but can cause frustration. Overall, Revolut’s card and spending features are modern, user-centric, and designed for global lifestyles.

Crypto, Stocks, and Commodities: Trading with Revolut

Revolut has carved a niche for itself by integrating trading services directly into its app. Users can access a range of investment products, including cryptocurrencies, stocks, and commodities like gold and silver. This makes Revolut a convenient all-in-one platform for casual traders who don’t want to juggle multiple apps.

In the crypto space, Revolut supports trading in popular tokens like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and others. The app allows buying, holding, and selling with ease. It’s user-friendly and accessible, especially for those new to crypto. However, it’s important to note that users do not have access to their crypto wallets or private keys, Revolut acts more like a custodian than a full-fledged crypto platform.

Stocks are similar. You can buy fractional shares of US companies with low minimums. The interface has basic charts and company info but not the advanced tools serious investors would expect. For long term investors or those who want in-depth analysis Revolut will feel limited. Commodities allow you to invest small amounts in gold or silver. These are digitally backed and can be bought or sold in real time like crypto or stocks. There are fees for each asset class including spread margins and transaction fees. For beginners they’re competitive but for high volume traders you may find better pricing elsewhere. Overall Revolut’s trading features are best for beginners who want to get their feet wet without needing separate platforms.

Revolut Business: Tools for Companies and Freelancers

Revolut Business is designed to streamline financial management for modern companies, freelancers, and online sellers. It offers features like multi-currency accounts, bulk payments, invoicing, and API integrations that simplify day-to-day transactions. Businesses can manage expenses, send payments globally, and receive money in multiple currencies without high conversion fees. For startups or digital-first teams, Revolut Business provides a scalable solution that covers basic financial needs without requiring a traditional bank relationship. The ability to issue multiple team cards and set permissions also helps with expense tracking and transparency.

The platform integrates with tools like QuickBooks, Xero, and Slack, allowing businesses to centralize their operations. APIs are available for companies that need automated workflows or custom reporting. This makes Revolut Business especially appealing to e-commerce operators, freelancers with international clients, and tech-driven teams.

Freelancers benefit from easy invoice generation, instant payments, and the ability to withdraw funds directly into local accounts. It simplifies dealing with multiple currencies and helps maintain cash flow. However, businesses with more complex needs, such as lending, payroll management, or credit lines, may find Revolut’s offering limited compared to traditional banks or full-service fintech platforms.

Customer support for business users can also be a concern. While there are dedicated channels, some users report delays in resolving account or transaction issues. In summary, Revolut Business is a solid option for digital-native businesses seeking control, transparency, and low-cost international payments, but it may not be ideal for enterprises with more traditional banking needs.

Security, Compliance, and Regulatory Standing

Security is a cornerstone of Revolut’s offering. The platform uses advanced encryption, real-time fraud monitoring, and two-factor authentication to protect user data and funds. Users can also set up biometric login, freeze and unfreeze cards instantly, and receive instant alerts on any transaction, all through the app.

From a compliance standpoint, Revolut’s legal status varies by region. In some markets, it operates under full banking licenses, offering services like deposit protection and personal loans. In others, it’s an e-money institution, which limits its scope and regulatory oversight. This distinction is important for users who want to understand how their funds are secured.

Revolut is subject to anti-money laundering and know-your-customer regulations and regularly audits user activity. This leads to occasional account freezes or verification requests, which users have criticized when customer support fails to respond promptly. These measures are designed for user protection, but the lack of transparency in enforcement can be frustrating.

Additionally, as the platform continues to expand into new financial products like trading and credit, the importance of regulatory clarity increases. Users should regularly check which license governs their account and what protections are in place in their country. Overall, Revolut takes security seriously and complies with local laws, but variations in regulatory status and some gaps in customer service response times make it important for users to stay informed.