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Top 5 Virtual Dollar Cards for International Payments from Nigeria in 2024

By
TI Partners
-
0

In 2024, Nigerian users have access to various virtual dollar cards designed to facilitate international transactions. These cards are tailored for online purchases and subscriptions on platforms like PayPal, Netflix and Amazon, offering convenience and security.

Here are the top five virtual dollar cards available in Nigeria. 

1. Ultima Card by PSTNET

PSTNET is a financial platform that enables users to issue cards for various purposes, including media buying and online payments. The platform’s most popular dollar cards, known as Ultima, are suitable for services like PayPal, Steam, Spotify, Netflix, Patreon, Unity 3D, and app stores including Google Play, Apple App Store, Microsoft Store, PlayStation Store, and Epic Games Store. PSTNET cards are supported by Visa and Mastercard and can be used anywhere these payment systems are accepted. There are no limits on spending and top-ups.

The cards do not incur fees for transactions, withdrawals or operations involving declined or blocked payments.

An additional benefit of the Ultima cards is the 3D Secure technology, which ensures the security of financial transactions.

Key Features:

  • Multiple Top-Up Options: Users can fund their cards using cryptocurrencies like USDT TRC20, BTC (and over 15 other coins), SWIFT and SEPA bank transfers or any other Visa/Mastercard.
  • Simple Fund Withdrawal: Funds can be easily withdrawn in USDT without additional costs.
  • Quick Registration: To obtain a card, users can register on the platform in 1-2 minutes without data verification or document submission. Registration can be done using Google, Telegram, WhatsApp, or Apple accounts.
  • Functional Telegram Bot: A Telegram bot is available for receiving 3DS codes and notifications.

Users can choose a service plan that suits their needs, such as paying $7 per week or opting for an annual plan at $99, which currently includes a 48% discount.

PSTNET provides a versatile and secure financial platform for card issuance, catering to various online payment needs. Its wide range of top-up options, lack of transaction fees, and quick registration process make it a convenient choice for users worldwide.

   2. ALAT Cards by Wema Bank

Wema Bank has introduced the Virtual Card ALAT, a fully functional digital bank card. This prepaid VISA card offers users a choice of three levels: Classic, Gold, or Platinum, each catering to various needs and usage scenarios.

The ALAT Dollar Card is specifically designed for international transactions, making it ideal for online shopping and subscription services, including media buying on platforms like Facebook Ads and Google Ads. However, it is important to note that the card cannot be used at ATMs, POS terminals, or websites requiring 3D Secure authentication.

For those looking to use the card for international shopping, an additional activation step is required. This precaution is necessary to avoid potential issues with processing payments from Nigeria.

Key Features:

  • Top up Balance: Users can top up their ALAT cards through transfers from local banks such as UBA, Zenith, and GTBank. Additionally, cash deposits can be made physically at any Wema Bank branch.
  • Free Registration: Registration for the card is free of charge. Users will need to obtain a USSD code on their mobile phone and follow the provided instructions.
  • Transaction Limits: It’s important to be aware of the operational limits. For instance, the maximum amount per transaction is 1,000,000 NGN (approximately $860), and the maximum daily limit is 5,000,000 NGN (approximately $4,300).

This comprehensive digital banking solution by Wema Bank provides users with a versatile and accessible option for managing their finances both locally and internationally.

3. PayDay Cards

PayDay is a multifunctional financial platform offering virtual cards, physical debit cards and virtual wallets. Users’ funds are stored in the PayDay wallet account and can be accessed through their cards. These cards support payment systems like VISA, MasterCard and Verve International.

PayDay cards allow users to receive international transfers from any country (e.g., salary from a foreign employer), transfer money to individuals in Rwanda and Nigeria and shop on international online platforms such as Amazon, Netflix and Apple. Bill payment is also available through the service.

Key Features:

  • Top-Up Balance via PayDay Wallet: Users can top up their balance using their NGN account and convert the currency to USD in their personal account. Once converted, the funds can be credited to their dollar card.
  • The platform imposes a system of limits. For example, the limit for a single transfer is the equivalent of 1,000,000 NGN or 1,000,000 RWF per day, or $1,333 per day or per transfer. For VISA cards, the maximum spending limit is $3,000 per month, while for MasterCard, it is $10,000 per month.
  • Withdrawal Options: Funds can be withdrawn through the wallet to any local Nigerian bank or to a MOMO account in Rwanda.
  • Easy Registration: Users can download the PayDay app from the AppStore/PlayStore and complete the verification process. Verification in Nigeria requires a BVN and a selfie, while in Rwanda, it requires a national ID and a selfie.

PayDay provides users with a versatile and convenient solution for managing their finances across different regions and platforms.

4. Chipper Cards

Chipper Cash is a financial service that offers cards tailored for various purposes. It includes a virtual dollar Chipper card supported by the VISA payment system, alongside local cards for Nigeria, Uganda, and Ghana, which are not suitable for international purchases.

With the Chipper USD card, users can send and receive money in Nigeria, Uganda, Rwanda, South Africa, the USA, and the UK. These cards are specifically designed for online shopping and can be used anywhere Visa is accepted. They are ideal for payments on services like Netflix, Apple, Spotify, Google, AliExpress and other popular platforms. However, it is recommended to check the vendor’s category on the website before making an international transaction to ensure compatibility. This also supports a blank invoice receipt template.

Key Features:

  • Top-Up Balance via Chipper Cash: Users can add funds to their card by selecting their NGN account in their personal account and topping up. The balance on the card will be in dollars.
  • Spending Limits: There are daily and monthly spending limits on the cards. Users can spend up to $1,000 per day and up to $4,000 per month.
  • Registration takes no more than two business days.

To obtain a card, users need to download the app and complete the verification process by providing the necessary documents. Verification includes submitting a BVN and a selfie (instructions on how to take a selfie are provided). Users must also confirm their address and phone number.

Chipper Cash offers a convenient and efficient financial solution for managing and transferring money across multiple countries and platforms, making it a valuable tool for international transactions and online shopping.

5. Barter Cards by Flutterwave

Flutterwave is a financial service provider, offers users the ability to create virtual Barter Cards for seamless online transactions from Nigeria. These cards, available as virtual Mastercard and VISA options, are designed for international purchases and subscriptions. They also facilitate global money transfers and allow users to receive funds from abroad. The cards can be customized for various payments, including popular services like Netflix, Spotify, and Apple Music. 

Key Features:

  • Easy Top-Up: Users can fund their Barter Cards through their local bank accounts or existing debit and credit cards, ensuring flexibility and convenience.
  • Spending Limits: The cards come with a spending cap of up to $1,000 per day and a maximum of $4,000 per month, providing users with substantial transactional freedom.
  • Easy Card Acquisition: To obtain a Barter Card, users need to download the Barter app, available on both Google Play Store and Apple App Store. The registration process involves creating an account and filling in personal details such as full name, date of birth, email address, and phone number. Verification requires the submission of a Bank Verification Number (BVN) and a selfie for identity confirmation. Once verified, users can create and activate their virtual dollar cards directly within the app. Note that there is a small fee for card issuance.

However, it is important to note that the Barter Card service is currently unavailable. Flutterwave has announced that the service will resume soon, and users can join the waitlist to be notified when it becomes available again.

Conclusion

As digital financial transactions continue to grow, virtual dollar cards have become essential tools for users in Nigeria looking to make international payments. The Ultima Card by PSTNET stands out with its flexibility, absence of transaction fees, and quick registration process. Alongside other offerings from platforms like ALAT by Wema Bank, PayDay, Chipper Cash, and Barter by Flutterwave, these cards provide secure and efficient solutions for online purchases and global money transfers. By evaluating key features such as top-up options, spending limits, and ease of registration, users can choose the card that best fits their financial needs and ensures seamless international transactions.

The Ultimate Guide to Painless Hair Removal at Home

By
TI Partners
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0

Are you tired of constantly shaving or waxing to keep your skin smooth and hair-free? As someone who has tried nearly every hair removal method out there, I know the struggle all too well.

That’s why I’ve put together this ultimate guide to help you find the best, most painless ways to remove unwanted hair in the comfort of your own home.

Why Remove Body Hair?

Before we dive into the different hair removal methods, let’s talk about why you might want to remove body hair in the first place. For many people, it’s simply a personal preference.

Having smooth, hairless skin can make you feel more confident and comfortable in your own body.

There are also practical reasons to remove body hair. For athletes, especially swimmers and cyclists, removing body hair can help reduce drag and improve performance. And for people who live in hot climates, having less body hair can help keep you cooler and more comfortable.

Types of Hair Removal Methods

There are many different ways to remove unwanted hair, each with its own pros and cons. Here’s a quick overview of some of the most popular methods:

Method Pros Cons
Shaving Quick, inexpensive, easy to do at home Results only last a few days, can cause razor burn and ingrown hairs
Waxing Results last 3-4 weeks, can be done at home Can be painful, messy, requires some skill
Epilation Results last 3-4 weeks, can be done at home Can be painful, requires some skill
Laser hair removal Permanent hair reduction, can be done at home with the right device Expensive upfront cost, requires multiple treatments, not suitable for all skin tones

My Favorite Method: Sugar Waxing

Out of all the hair removal methods I’ve tried, my personal favorite is sugar waxing. Unlike traditional waxing, which uses hot wax and cloth strips, sugar waxing uses a simple mixture of sugar, lemon juice, and water. The mixture is heated until it forms a thick, sticky paste that can be applied directly to the skin.

To remove the hair, you simply let the sugar wax cool slightly, then flick it off in the opposite direction of hair growth. The hair comes out at the root, leaving your skin smooth and hair-free for weeks.

I love sugar waxing because it’s a natural, inexpensive way to remove hair at home. You can easily make your own sugar wax with ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. Plus, it’s less painful than traditional waxing and doesn’t leave behind any sticky residue.

Tips for Painless Hair Removal

No matter which hair removal method you choose, there are a few things you can do to make the process as painless as possible:

  1. Exfoliate before hair removal to prevent ingrown hairs
  2. Apply a numbing cream 30 minutes before waxing or epilating
  3. Hold the skin taut while removing hair to minimize pain
  4. Moisturize after hair removal to soothe the skin

With these tips and the right hair removal method for you, you can enjoy smooth, hair-free skin without any pain or hassle. Give sugar waxing a try and see for yourself how easy and effective it can be!

FX Crisis: Nigerian students unable to pay tuition fees, expelled from UK school

By
Samuel Nwite
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0

Nigerian students at Teesside University have taken to protesting on campus after the institution expelled them and ordered their departure from the United Kingdom. 

The BBC reported that the university’s action stems from these students’ inability to pay tuition fees on time, a situation attributed to the severe devaluation of Nigeria’s currency, the naira, which has drastically affected their financial stability. On Tuesday morning, the students carried placards to voice their frustrations, accusing the university of taking a “heartless” approach to those who fell into arrears.

The root of the problem lies in Nigeria’s forex crisis, which has seen the naira’s value plummet. This devaluation wiped out the savings of many Nigerian students, making it difficult for them to meet their financial obligations. 

Teesside University responded by reporting these students to the Home Office, leading to their suspension from studies and the revocation of their visa sponsorships. The university defended its actions, stating that non-payment of fees constituted a breach of visa sponsorship requirements, which left them no choice but to alert immigration authorities.

According to the report, many affected students expressed feelings of despair and hopelessness, with some even considering suicide. Adenike Ibrahim, one of the students close to completing her studies, shared her distressing experience. After missing a single payment, she was expelled from her course and reported to the Home Office despite having paid 90% of her tuition fees. Despite settling her arrears, she was not re-enrolled and was instructed to leave the UK along with her young son.

“I did default [on payments], but I’d already paid 90% of my tuition fees and I went to all of my classes,” said Ibrahim. “I called them and asked to reach an agreement, but they do not care what happens to their students.” She described the experience as “horrendous,” noting that the uncertainty surrounding her qualification and the impact on her son was particularly heartbreaking. “It has been heartbreaking for my son especially, he has been in so much distress since I told him,” she added.

Other students echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the severe emotional and psychological toll the situation has taken on them. One master’s degree student, who chose to remain anonymous, said he had seriously considered suicide and was not eating or drinking after receiving a letter from the Home Office stating that his permission to enter the UK had been canceled due to his cessation of studies. 

The Role of Nigeria’s Forex Crisis

The Nigerian forex crisis has had a devastating impact on the students’ ability to finance their education. Before beginning their studies, students were required to provide evidence of sufficient funds to cover tuition fees and living expenses. However, the unexpected and severe devaluation of the naira significantly depleted these funds. This economic instability in Nigeria is part of a broader financial crisis affecting many Nigerians both at home and abroad. The crisis has led to skyrocketing inflation and a sharp increase in the cost of living, further compounding financial difficulties.

At home, Nigerians are facing increased prices for basic goods and services, making it harder for families to support students studying abroad. The cost of imported goods has surged, and businesses are struggling to maintain operations due to the higher costs of imported raw materials. 

The economic challenges have led to widespread financial strain, impacting everything from household budgets to the ability of businesses to sustain operations and employment. As of Wednesday, the naira traded at N1,851.761 against the British pound.

Impact of UK Immigration Law

Compounding the students’ difficulties is the newly introduced UK immigration law, which has tightened regulations around visa sponsorship. This law mandates that educational institutions must report any breaches of visa conditions, including non-payment of tuition fees. Teesside University stated it had “no choice” but to alert the Home Office when students fell into arrears, as failure to pay is considered a breach of visa sponsorship requirements.

A university spokesperson said, “Teesside University is proud to be a global institution with a diverse student population but is also very aware of its obligations regarding visa issuance and compliance. These strict external regulations ensure that the university fully supports a robust immigration system and is outside of the university’s control.”

In response to the growing crisis, a group of 60 students petitioned the university for support. Despite some managing to pay off their outstanding fees, the university indicated it could no longer intervene in the Home Office process once students were reported. 

The university claimed to have made “every effort” to support the students, including offering individual meetings with specialist staff and bespoke payment plans. However, many students reported receiving little to no support from the university, leading to their academic and financial distress.

“I attended all of my classes and seminars, I’m a hell of an active student,” she said. “It is disheartening, I am now on antidepressants and being here alone, I have nobody to talk to. For over two months, I’ve barely eaten or slept, and I don’t understand why this is being meted out to us; we didn’t do anything wrong,” Esther Obigwe said about her experience trying to seek help from the university. She expressed her embarrassment and reluctance to inform her family about her predicament.

Brazil’s Path to Crypto Regulation

By
Paul Ugbede Godwin
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0

As the world increasingly embraces digital currencies, the need for comprehensive regulatory frameworks becomes paramount. Brazil, a nation with a burgeoning crypto market, is no exception. The Central Bank of Brazil has embarked on a multi-phase plan to establish a robust regulatory framework for cryptocurrencies and virtual asset service providers (VASPs) by the end of 2024.

The initiative follows Decree 11,563 of 2023, which grants the Central Bank authority to oversee VASPs while maintaining the roles of the Securities and Exchange Commission (CVM) and the Special Secretariat of the Federal Revenue of Brazil (RFB). This collaborative effort aims to enhance transparency, protect investors, and target inappropriate practices that harm consumers, such as scams and fraud.

The regulation of cryptocurrencies presents a complex puzzle for policymakers worldwide. The decentralized nature of digital currencies, the absence of a central authority, the difficulty in monitoring and enforcing regulations, and the global reach of the crypto market all contribute to the regulatory challenges.

One of the primary hurdles is the protection of consumers. Participants in crypto markets are vulnerable to risks such as theft, volatility, and misinformation. Despite these risks, only a fraction of countries has established rules to safeguard consumers. For instance, India and France require advertisers to disclose the risks associated with crypto-investing, while South Korea mandates crypto-asset service providers to obtain an information security certificate to reduce theft risks.

Another significant challenge is the need for global coordination. Cryptocurrencies operate on a global scale, making it imperative for regulations to transcend national boundaries. The International Organization of Securities Commissions has laid out recommendations for global rules on managing crypto and digital assets, emphasizing the need for a harmonized approach.

Furthermore, the rapid evolution of the crypto market often outpaces regulatory developments, leading to a lag in consumer protection rules. This gap necessitates a proactive and agile regulatory stance to keep up with the dynamic nature of cryptocurrencies.

The regulatory process in Brazil is set to evolve through phases, reflecting the growing understanding of regulators and international guidelines. Key steps for 2024 include developing a second public consultation on providers’ performance and authorization, establishing internal planning for stablecoin regulation, and improving the complementary framework for VASP activities. Additionally, the Central Bank will collaborate with other bodies to address specific virtual asset issues, particularly regulating stablecoins within payments and the foreign exchange market.

The Central Bank’s approach is not only methodical but also inclusive, involving public consultations to gather input from various stakeholders, including industry participants, experts, and the general public. The first consultation, held in late 2023, aimed to collect feedback on the proposed regulations and address aspects not covered by the 2022 law, such as the segregation of assets held by VASPs. The second public consultation, scheduled for the second half of 2024, will focus specifically on the regulatory texts, incorporating the input received during the initial consultation to establish a robust regulatory framework with broad support from society.

This phased approach to regulation is indicative of Brazil’s commitment to creating a secure environment for crypto transactions. By finalizing the regulatory proposals using insights from public consultations, the Central Bank ensures that the regulations benefit from public and market input, producing high-quality, well-informed standards.

The anticipated regulations are expected to focus on various aspects, such as anti-money laundering, combating terrorist financing, and monitoring suspicious activities. These measures are crucial for maintaining the stability of the National Financial System and fostering a climate of trust and security for investors and users alike.

As Brazil moves towards finalizing its crypto regulations by the end of 2024, the global crypto community watches with keen interest. The success of Brazil’s regulatory framework could serve as a model for other nations seeking to balance the promotion of innovation with the need for investor protection and market integrity. The journey ahead is complex, but the potential rewards for Brazil’s financial ecosystem and the broader crypto market are significant.

Ireland, Spain, and Norway Announce Plan to Recognize Palestinian State, Sparking Diplomatic Tensions with Israel

By
Samuel Nwite
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0

Ireland, Spain, and Norway have announced their decision to recognize the State of Palestine, a move ignited by the International Criminal Court’s (ICC) recent application for arrest warrants for Israeli leaders.

This decision, set to take effect on May 28, 2024, marks a significant shift in the geopolitical landscape of the Middle East and is expected to escalate diplomatic tensions with Israel and its allies, particularly the United States.

The ICC’s action serves as a catalyst for these European nations, which have long been critical of Israeli policies in the occupied territories. The court’s decision to pursue charges against Israeli officials for alleged war crimes has added a new layer of urgency to the international debate over Palestinian statehood. The ICC’s move was seen by Ireland, Spain, and Norway as a necessary step towards holding Israel accountable and addressing the long-standing grievances of the Palestinian people.

In statements issued on Wednesday, the prime ministers of the respective countries declared their readiness to take the necessary steps to actualize their decision.

“Today, Ireland, Norway, and Spain are announcing that we recognize the state of Palestine. Each of us will now undertake whatever national steps are necessary to give effect to that decision,” Irish Prime Minister Simon Harris stated at a news conference in Dublin.

Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre underscored the need for a Palestinian state for peace, saying, “A Palestinian state is a prerequisite for achieving peace in the Middle East. There will be no peace in the Middle East without a two-state solution.”

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez sought to characterize the decision as a constructive step. He said, “This recognition is not against the people of Israel and certainly not against the Jewish people. It’s not in favor of Hamas. It’s in favor of co-existence.”

However, the move has drawn mixed reactions globally, casting further strains on diplomatic relations that have already been impacted by the ICC’s move to arrest Israeli leaders.

The Palestinian Authority welcomed the move, with its president’s office stating that it reflects support for the Palestinian people’s legitimate rights. The Palestinian news agency Wafa quoted the office as saying, “This step reflects Spain’s keenness to support the Palestinian people and their inalienable and legitimate rights to their land and homeland.”

Hamas, the governing body in Gaza, urged other countries to follow suit and recognize Palestinian statehood. The group called for support of their “legitimate national rights, support the struggle of our people for liberation and independence, and end the Zionist occupation of our land.”

Israel reacted sharply, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemning the decision as rewarding terrorism. Netanyahu stated, “The intention of several European countries to recognize a Palestinian state is a reward for terrorism. This would be a terrorist state. It would try to carry out the October 7 massacre again and again – and that, we shall not agree to. Rewarding terrorism will not bring peace and neither will it stop us from defeating Hamas.”

In further reaction, Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz ordered the immediate recall of ambassadors from the three countries, signaling severe diplomatic repercussions. 

Katz declared, “I am sending a clear message today — Israel will not hold back against those who undermine its sovereignty and endanger its security.” He further added, “After the terrorist organization Hamas carried out the largest massacre of Jews since the Holocaust, after it committed the most horrific sex crimes the world has seen, these countries chose to give a reward to Hamas and Iran and recognize a Palestinian state.”

Two State Solution

While over 140 out of 193 United Nations member states recognize Palestinian statehood, only a few European Union members have joined this list. The decision by Ireland, Spain, and Norway to formally recognize Palestine is thus both symbolically and politically significant.

The three European leaders stressed the importance of Palestinian statehood in achieving peace in Middle East, a decades-long goal that the international community has failed to achieve. Senior officials in the United States, a key ally of Israel, have insisted that the only way to bring peace and stability to the region is through the creation of a Palestinian state with guarantees for Israel’s security. Lawmakers in Israel have long rejected those calls.

Reacting to the news on Wednesday, a National Security Council spokesperson told CNN that US President Joe Biden “is a strong supporter” of a two-state solution. The spokesperson added, however, “He believes a Palestinian state should be realized through direct negotiations between the parties, not through unilateral recognition.”

France, meanwhile, said that now is not the “right time” for it to join its European neighbors in recognizing a Palestinian state. The country’s foreign minister, Stephane Séjourne, added that such a decision is not merely a “symbolic issue or a question of political positioning” but rather a “diplomatic tool” in the service of a two-state solution.

Germany also questioned the decision. Michael Roth, the chair of the parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee, posted on X: “I’m not convinced that the recognition of Palestine as a sovereign state is an appropriate measure after the horrific massacres [by] Hamas [on] October 7 last year.”

Regional and International Support

Several countries, including Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Turkey, and Slovenia, welcomed the decision, reinforcing the call for more nations to recognize a Palestinian state. Saudi Arabia’s foreign ministry expressed appreciation for the move and urged other countries to take similar steps. 

A statement from the Saudi foreign ministry read, “The kingdom appreciates this decision issued by friendly countries, which affirms the international consensus on the inherent right of the Palestinian people to self-determination, and calls on the rest of the countries to quickly make the same decision.”

Historical Context and International Law

Ireland has a long history of being openly supportive of the Palestinian cause, consistently criticizing Israeli policies in the occupied West Bank and Gaza before Hamas’ October 7 attack in Israel. Since then, Israel’s war in response has shredded huge parts of the Gaza Strip and drained critical supplies, exposing the entire population of more than 2.2 million people to the risk of famine.

Israel captured Gaza from Egypt in the 1967 war and withdrew its troops and settlers in 2005. In 2007, Hamas took control of the territory, which is home to around 2 million Palestinians. Following this, Israel and Egypt imposed a strict siege on Gaza, which continues to this day. Israel also maintains an air and naval blockade on the territory. These severe restrictions have been fiercely criticized by international bodies, including Amnesty International, which accuses Israel of violating international law.

The planned recognition adds pressure on Israel after seven months of fighting, according to H.A. Hellyer, a scholar at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace and the Royal United Services Institute for Defence and Security Studies in London. 

Hellyer explained, “For individual Palestinians on the ground in the Occupied Territories, it’s not going to mean anything at all in the short term, perhaps in the medium term. It is obviously political recognition by states that don’t have a presence on the ground.” He added that Israel risks becoming an “international pariah” given that Western nations are now beginning to recognize a Palestinian state.

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