Wise
Shine
How do Wise and Shine compare?
Wise and Shine are two mobile banks offering digital financial services, but they serve different customer segments and focus on distinct areas of banking.
Wise, formerly known as TransferWise, specializes in international money transfers and currency exchange. It enables users to send money globally at low costs, with transparent fees and real exchange rates. Additionally, Wise provides multi-currency accounts, debit cards, and various financial services, making it ideal for users who need to manage international transactions or deal with multiple currencies.
Shine, on the other hand, is tailored specifically for freelancers and small business owners in France. It offers a suite of financial tools to support freelancers, including invoicing tools, expense tracking, and tax management. Shine also provides business bank accounts, debit cards, and low-cost international transfers, making it a strong choice for self-employed individuals and small business owners in need of specialized financial services.
Both Wise and Shine offer low-cost accounts, with additional fees for certain services. Shine also offers a premium subscription plan with additional benefits such as insurance and higher daily withdrawal limits.
In summary, Wise is ideal for users who frequently send money internationally or require multi-currency accounts, while Shine is better suited for freelancers and small business owners in France who need tailored financial services to manage their businesses effectively.
Founded: 2011
Headquarters: London, UK
Users: +16 million
Countries available: 56
Account plans: multi-currency accounts
Founded: 2017
Headquarters: Paris, France
Users: unknown
Countries available: France
Account plans: 5 plan options
Other comparisons about Wise and Shine
Why use a digital bank?
Affordable fees and attractive pricing
With their digital-first approach and reduced operating costs, neobanks often offer highly competitive fees compared to traditional banks. Many neobanks minimize or eliminate fees for services like account maintenance and transactions, and some even provide enhanced interest rates on savings and loans. This cost-efficiency appeals to individuals and businesses focused on maximizing financial value without the typical expenses of traditional banking.
Quick account setup and hassle-free onboarding
Opening an account with a traditional bank is often a slow, paperwork-heavy process. Neobanks streamline this experience by using technology to offer a quick, fully online onboarding. Some even provide instant approval, allowing users to start banking within minutes. This efficiency and ease make neobanks an attractive option for people who want fast, paperless access to financial services.
Intuitive design for easy navigation
Advanced budgeting and financial tracking tools
Neobanks often come equipped with advanced financial tools built right into their apps, giving users insights into spending patterns, budgeting help, and real-time transaction categorization. For businesses, this translates into improved financial control and clear visibility over cash flow. With features like expense tracking and financial analysis, neobanks empower individuals and businesses to make informed, data-driven financial decisions, setting them apart with their strong focus on financial management.
Responsive support and community involvement
Neobanks focus on customer satisfaction with quick, accessible support through multiple channels like in-app chat, email, and even social media. Traditional banks can sometimes have slower, more bureaucratic service, but neobanks use technology to deliver faster, more tailored responses. Many also build a sense of community through online forums and events where users can exchange tips and insights, fostering a collaborative approach to banking.