What is it with this Christmas and money?

No, I'm not going into debt for Christmas... that would be unnecessary and [most probably] cause more trouble than what it's worth. Nor is it about the unwanted brochures sent to my letter box, only to be dumped in the rubbish the next day.

It's just that this Christmas for some reason, I've received a couple of unsolicited offers to help me spend my money faster, and, sadly, for no further worthwhile benefit.

Example 1: Air NZ is making a big deal about its new OneSmart card, which seems to be a debit card with fees that would generally sit between the cost of a debit card [ATM/ EFTPOS] and a credit card. It looks like a reasonable proposition, except that I don't travel internationally that often and it won't be a suitable replacement for either my debit or credit card. In other words, mainly extra cost. Maybe if I were travelling overseas regularly...? Oh yeah - they'll send it to me and all I have to do is activate it! Am I willing to spend more so that I can reduce ATM fees when [I am infrequently] overseas? Probably not.

Example 2: BNZ have just sent me a nice letter saying that they have approved me for a flash new credit card. Nice, except that it costs almost twice as much a year in fees, and offers only a little amount extra in benefits, which do not appear to make up for the extra in cost. Oh yeah - last time they did this, I turned them down.

Come on folks! It's rapidly approaching Christmas! Most people don't actually need extra expense in their lives, especially at this time of the year.

It's OK to go out and make a dollar or two out of people, but I'm starting to think that this is a bit much! At least target your audience a bit more. Both Air NZ and BNZ must be able to see that these "offers" will be extra expense and little extra benefit for me! The only way that they "save" me money is if I spent a lot more!

Not good.

If I have missed anything, Air NZ and BNZ are welcome to contact me [not that they will]! I'm always happy to have a chat, and if I'm wrong, I'll say so. Just please, stop trying it on!

Anyway, that's my moan for Christmas!