Considering a Revolut upgrade? Or maybe you're wondering if Standard is even worth keeping? In this deep-dive episode, Jonny and Jan break down every Revolut plan — from Standard to Ultra — and share brutally honest insights based on real-world experience.

We explore:

• What each plan really offers (and what’s missing)
• The surprising state of Jan's Metal card
• How to calculate if you're getting enough value
• Hidden downsides and fine print (like cancellation fees)
• Who each plan is actually for — and who should avoid them

Whether you're a Revolut power user or just Revolut-curious, this episode will help you avoid the hype and make an informed decision.

Connect with us (via LinkedIn)

Jan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jan-watermann/

Jonny: http://www.linkedin.com/in/jonny-pease

Got a question or topic you want us to cover? Drop us a message at [email protected]

In this month’s recap, Jonny and Jan dive deep into Revolut’s 2024 annual report, from $1 billion in profit to 14.5 million new customers and a staggering £1 trillion in transaction volume. Is this the beginning of the end for traditional banks like Barclays? We break it all down and share our thoughts on Revolut’s next moves, including their rumoured credit card and expansion plans.

We also end the episode with the best savings rates in the UK right now. 

Recording date: 29/04/2025

Connect with us (via LinkedIn)

Jan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jan-watermann/

Jonny: http://www.linkedin.com/in/jonny-pease

Got a question or topic you want us to cover? Drop us a message at [email protected]

Revolut replaced its cashback offering with RevPoints over a year ago, but is their loyalty scheme actually worth it?

In this episode, Jonny and Jan break down exactly how RevPoints work in 2025:

• How to earn them (besides just spending)
• The best and worst ways to redeem
• Whether they’re good value compared to other cashback cards and credit cards
• And why “spare change” might be the worst way to use them...

We’ll also walk through real examples, break-even spend thresholds for each plan, and compare RevPoints to options like Amex, Santander Edge, Chase UK, and Trading 212.

👉 If you're wondering whether to upgrade your Revolut plan, or ditch it altogether then this one’s for you.

Connect with us (via LinkedIn)

Jan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jan-watermann/

Jonny: http://www.linkedin.com/in/jonny-pease

Got a question or topic you want us to cover? Drop us a message at [email protected]

Chase UK once dominated the rewards game with 1% cashback across the board, but those days are fading. In this episode, Jonny & Jan dig into what’s changed and share the best debit and credit card alternatives for cashback, points, and perks in 2025.

We’ll talk through:

• The slow decline of Chase UK’s cashback value
• Smart debit card options like Santander Edge and Trading 212
• The best American Express cards for points and perks
• Whether airline reward cards are actually worth it
• How to stack rewards using cashback apps

If you're looking to get more back from your everyday spending, this one’s for you.

🎙 Subscribe for weekly episodes on fintech, digital banking, travel hacks and money tips — without borders.

Connect with us (via LinkedIn)

Jan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jan-watermann/

Jonny: http://www.linkedin.com/in/jonny-pease

Got a question or topic you want us to cover? Drop us a message at [email protected]

This weeks episode of Banking Without Borders is taken from our in-depth YouTube video exploring Revolut’s $100 billion ambition. CEO Nikolay Storonsky opens with his bold vision, but is it actually achievable? We break down Revolut’s strategy across lending, private banking, AI, and global expansion, and explore what it would really take for this fintech giant to reach $100 billion in revenue.

Connect with us (via LinkedIn)

Jan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jan-watermann/

Jonny: http://www.linkedin.com/in/jonny-pease

Got a question or topic you want us to cover? Drop us a message at [email protected]

In this episode of Banking Without Borders,  Jonny and Jan sit down for a proper March recap, and there’s plenty to cover. From Chase UK nerfing its cashback (again) to the bizarre Klarna x DoorDash partnership that lets you pay for your groceries in instalments (yes, really).

Jonny shares his experience testing Trading 212’s new multi-currency account and card, with surprisingly low FX fees and interest on balances. Is it the next big thing for international spenders?

Plus: Early signs of Revolut mortgages, savings account tips, and why some flashy fintechs are starting to feel a bit… legacy.

Relevant links:
Try Trade Republic (Affiliate link) 👉 https://bit.ly/4ldafyC

DISCLAIMER
The information provided in this video is for educational/entertainment purposes, it should not be considered financial advice.

Connect with us (via LinkedIn)

Jan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jan-watermann/

Jonny: http://www.linkedin.com/in/jonny-pease

Got a question or topic you want us to cover? Drop us a message at [email protected]

Ever wondered where the best and worst places to live as a digital nomad really are? In this episode of Banking Without Borders, Jonny and Jan break down the destinations that live up to the hype, and those that definitely don’t.

We cover:

• Why Bali might be overrated
• The country that’s way too expensive for remote workers
• The terrifying moment Jan had to flee a country during armed conflict
• What to actually look for when choosing a destination
• The tools and resources we use to research visas, cost of living and internet
• The trade-offs between safety, lifestyle, and affordability

Whether you're planning your first nomad move or rethinking your current base, this episode will help you avoid costly mistakes and find a place that really works for your lifestyle.

Relevant links:
TradeRepublic (Affiliate):  https://bit.ly/43mNWAj – Great for savings
Cost of living calculator: Numbeo
Visa info: Wikipedia and official government sites
Remote work rankings: Nomad List

Connect with us (via LinkedIn)

Jan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jan-watermann/

Jonny: http://www.linkedin.com/in/jonny-pease

Got a question or topic you want us to cover? Drop us a message at [email protected]

Ever dreamed of being a digital nomad, working from a beach in Bali or a cafe in Lisbon? In this episode of Banking Without Borders, Jonny and Jan dive deep into the realities of the digital nomad lifestyle, beyond the Instagram fantasy.

We cover: 

How to make money as a digital nomad
The biggest myths & challenges (it's not all sunsets and laptops!)
Time zone struggles & avoiding burnout
The smartest ways to manage your finances abroad
Why getting paid in the right currency is crucial
The mental health impact & staying motivated on the road

Jan shares his experience as a full-time digital nomad, offering practical advice on starting your journey, avoiding common mistakes, and thriving in this lifestyle.

Next episode: We break down the best & worst places to live as a digital nomad!

If you’re serious about taking your work remote, this episode is a must!

Relevant links:
TradeRepublic (Affiliate) https://bit.ly/4ixrDMy - Great for savings!

Cost of living calculator: Numbeo

Connect with us (via LinkedIn)

Jan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jan-watermann/

Jonny: http://www.linkedin.com/in/jonny-pease

Got a question or topic you want us to cover? Drop us a message at [email protected]

Welcome to the first episode of Banking Without Borders! In this episode, we’re diving into the biggest fintech stories shaking up the industry:

• Revolut scraps its weekend exchange rate fee - What does this mean for premium users, and is there a hidden catch?
• ZING’s £150m failure - HSBC’s digital payment app barely lasted a year. What went wrong, and what can we learn from its downfall?
• Chase UK’s underwhelming credit card launch - With no standout perks, has Chase UK’s golden era of customer generosity come to an end?

Join Jonny and Jan as they break down these major developments, discuss what’s next for Revolut’s massive $60 billion valuation, and debate whether fintech giants are truly innovating or just repackaging old banking models.

📲 Available on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts. 

Connect with us (via LinkedIn)

Jan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jan-watermann/

Jonny: http://www.linkedin.com/in/jonny-pease

Got a question or topic you want us to cover? Drop us a message at [email protected]