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iFAST Global Bank vs Revolut: Comparing Multi-Currency Accounts in the UK

As international banking becomes more common, many UK consumers are comparing modern digital platforms that support multiple currencies, global payments, and mobile banking.
iFAST Global Bank and Revolut provide tools for managing money internationally, but they operate differently in terms of account structure, interest, regulation, and everyday banking features. This guide compares the two services to help readers understand how they differ.
Important: This article is for general information only and does not constitute financial advice. Product features, interest rates, and regulatory permissions may change. Always check the provider’s official terms before opening an account.
Quick Comparison
Feature | iFAST Global Bank | Revolut |
Provider type | UK authorised bank | UK authorised bank |
Deposit protection | Eligible deposits protected by the FSCS (up to £120,000) | Eligible deposits protected by the FSCS (up to £120,000) |
Supported currencies | 9 currencies held within one account | 30+ currencies available |
Account structure | Multi-Currency Current Account | Separate currency wallets |
Debit cards | Visa debit card^ | Visa or Mastercard |
Interest on everyday balances | Yes – interest earned on balances in the Multi-Currency Current Account* | No for Current account |
Interest on savings | Up to 4.15% AER on GBP and USD fixed term deposits# | Up to 4.5% AER (variable) with Ultra plan |
ATM withdrawals abroad | Fee-free ATM withdrawals worldwide (local ATM operators may apply their own charges) | Up to £200 or 5 withdrawals per rolling month on Standard plan |
SEPA transfers | Planned for future availability | No fees attached |
Early salary (UK) | Opt-in to Get Paid one business day earlier through Bacs or eligible Direct Credit | Get Paid one business day early |
Features and availability may vary depending on account type, location and provider terms.
^Debit card available to UK residents only. T&Cs apply.
# Interest rates are correct as of 13/04/2026.
Overview
iFAST Global Bank
iFAST Global Bank is a UK authorised digital bank offering international banking services.
Its interest-bearing Multi-Currency Current Account allows customers to save, spend and send money across multiple currencies within a single account.
Key features include:
- 9 supported currencies in one account
- Interest earned* on balances held in the account, calculated daily and paid monthly
- Earn 2.65%AER (variable)* on GBP everyday balance
- Visa debit card for UK residents
- International transfer capabilities
This structure may appeal to people who regularly manage funds across currencies, such as expats or internationally mobile professionals.
*18+. Interest rates are variable and subject to change. Details regarding interest rates can be found at https://www.ifastgb.com/en/fees. Please refer to the website for full terms and conditions.
Revolut
Revolut is a financial technology platform that provides mobile-first banking-style services. As of 11 March 2026, Revolut received a full UK banking license.
The platform is widely known for its multi-currency spending features, budgeting tools, and travel-friendly payments.
Common features include:
- Multiple currency wallets within the app
- International spending and transfers
- Budgeting and payment tools
- Virtual and physical debit cards
- Optional savings products and subscription plans
Key Difference: How Your Money Earns Interest
The biggest practical difference between the two platforms today is not how many currencies you can hold—but how easily your money earns interest.
iFAST Global Bank: automatic earning
With iFAST Global Bank, your GBP balance earns interest* directly within your current account.
There’s no need to:
- move funds into a separate savings product
- manage multiple balances
- think about optimising regularly
Your salary, savings, and everyday cash can all earn interest automatically.
*18+. Interest rates are variable and subject to change. Details regarding interest rates can be found at https://www.ifastgb.com/en/fees. Please refer to the website for full terms and conditions.
Revolut: active management required
Revolut offers interest through separate savings or flexible accounts, depending on your plan.
To earn interest, users typically need to:
- move money out of their main balance
- place it into a savings product
- transfer it back when needed for spending
While flexible, this approach relies on active user behaviour.
Why this difference matters
In theory, both platforms allow you to earn interest.
In reality, many users don’t consistently move money between accounts. Whether due to convenience, forgetfulness, or simply not wanting to manage multiple balances, funds often remain in a non-interest-bearing account.
Over time, this creates a gap between:
- what you could be earning
- and what you actually earn
iFAST Global Bank addresses this by removing the need for action—your money works without requiring constant attention.
Which Platform May Suit Different Users?
Choose iFAST Global Bank if you want:
- A “set and forget” approach to earning interest
- Interest on your everyday balance without extra steps
- A simpler, bank-style multi-currency experience
- Fixed deposit options for higher returns
Choose Revolut if you want:
- A feature-rich financial app
- Budgeting and spending tools
- Flexibility to actively invest savings
- A wide range of currencies and global features
Frequently Asked Questions
Is iFAST Global Bank regulated in the UK?
Yes. iFAST Global Bank operates as a UK authorised bank. Deposits up to £120,000 are protected by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS), subject to scheme rules.
Do balances with iFAST Global Bank earn interest?
Yes. All balances held in the Multi-Currency Current Account earn interest*, which is calculated daily and paid monthly, subject to applicable rates and account terms.
Can Revolut hold multiple currencies?
Yes. Revolut allows customers to hold and exchange multiple currencies, typically organised into separate wallets within the app.
Final Thoughts
Both iFAST Global Bank and Revolut offer solutions for managing money internationally.
- iFAST Global Bank focuses on a bank-style multi-currency account with interest on everyday balances.
- Revolut is a UK authorized bank providing a mobile-first financial platform with wallets, payments, and budgeting tools.
The most suitable option will depend on whether you prefer simplified multi-currency banking or a broader fintech app experience.
Disclaimers:
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Financial products, interest rates, and regulatory permissions may change. Always review the provider’s official documentation before making financial decisions.
*18+. Interest rates are variable and subject to change. Details regarding interest rates can be found at https://www.ifastgb.com/en/fees. Please refer to the website for full terms and conditions.
#iFAST Global Bank Fixed Term Deposits are subject to a fixed deposit term. Early withdrawal before maturity is not permitted unless under exceptional circumstances and may result in loss of all accrued interest. A 14-day cooling-off period applies from the date of application, during which you may cancel your fixed term deposit without penalty. More details can be found on www.ifastgb.com. Deposits up to £120,000 are protected by the FSCS. More details: https://www.fscs.org.uk/. T&Cs apply.
iFAST Global Bank is a member of the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS).
iFAST Global Bank is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority. Our Financial Services Register number is 716167. We are registered in England and Wales, our company number is 4797759.
Please note that the provided details serve as general information and should not be considered as financial advice or endorsements. We strongly advise customers to diligently carry out their own research and consider seeking expert guidance for tailored financial choices.
