South Africa’s popular eBucks Rewards Programme is undergoing major changes from July 1, 2025, with First National Bank (FNB) rolling out a revamped system that will affect how millions of customers earn and redeem rewards.
The shake-up, which impacts point allocations, grocery partnerships, and account fees, comes as the bank seeks to align its rewards model with shifting consumer habits and the broader digital banking landscape.
Lowered Thresholds, But Fewer Points
One of the most notable changes is the adjustment to how customers climb the reward levels.
FNB Premier clients will need fewer points to reach levels 2, 4, and 5—with thresholds dropping by 500 to 1,000 points depending on the tier.
However, the ease of access comes with a trade-off: fewer points are being awarded for common digital banking behaviours.
For instance, customers who previously earned 500 points for completing six digital wallet or app transactions will now earn none. Similarly, virtual card usage for online and in-store purchases will earn up to 1,000 fewer points.
“This is clearly a move to refine the focus of rewards,” said a local banking analyst. “FNB is encouraging specific behaviours while also curbing benefits that may no longer align with their strategy.”
FNB is also switching its grocery retail partner—a change that will impact everyday spending for thousands. From March 31, 2025, eBucks will no longer be usable at Shoprite and Checkers. Starting April 1, Pick n Pay becomes the exclusive grocery partner.
Customers can earn up to 30% back in eBucks on Pick n Pay purchases, both online and in-store, depending on their rewards level.
For users of FNB Easy and Easy Bundle accounts, Pick n Pay will continue to offer 99c bread and R100 worth of monthly coupons, keeping basic affordability top of mind.
Alongside the rewards overhaul, FNB is implementing monthly account fee increases. Aspire accounts will rise from R115 to R120, and Premier accounts jump from R240 to R250 per month.
Adding to the pressure, the free transaction threshold is shrinking—customers will now only get R2,000 in free monthly transactions, down from R3,000.
“This will certainly pinch middle-income consumers who rely on fee-free limits to manage their monthly banking costs,” said one fintech commentator.
Connectivity Rewards Get a Boost
In a positive twist, FNB Connect customers will now enjoy greater eBucks earning opportunities.
Up to 15% back in eBucks can be earned on prepaid bundles and SIM plan purchases, while users on reward level 2 or higher will receive free monthly WhatsApp messaging when they spend R1 or more on FNB Connect.
These changes paint a picture of a more targeted and digital-first rewards programme. While some customers may find it harder to maintain higher eBucks levels, the introduction of Pick n Pay and boosted connectivity benefits could sweeten the deal for others.
Whether these changes will enhance or diminish customer loyalty remains to be seen—but one thing is clear: FNB is betting on personalization and strategic partnerships to future-proof its eBucks offering.
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