Which credit card gives the highest cashback on online shopping?

I was worried about the high joining fee but the welcome benefit voucher was credited within 30 days of crossing the spend threshold. Net cost: zero. The trick is to time your application so that you make a big purchase (appliance, travel booking) in the first 45 days.

I closed my HDFC card last year. The process took exactly 7 days. They sent a confirmation email and a closure letter by speed post. Tip: pay off the full outstanding and request closure only AFTER the payment reflects. Calling repeatedly with a zero balance is the fastest path.

Honestly, the annual fee is on the higher side. But if you spend consistently on the accelerated categories, the cashback more than offsets it. I did the maths on my own statement last year and came out ahead by about ₹3,200.

Short answer: no, EMI on credit card is not cheaper than a personal loan for large amounts (>₹50,000). The processing fee (~₹199-₹599) plus the interest (~14-16% reducing) usually adds up to slightly more than a personal loan rate of 11-13%. But for small-ticket EMI (₹10-20K), it is fine.