With Zing's imminent closure, it's crucial to transition to a new platform to ensure continuity in your international payments and multi-currency management. The good news is that the UK fintech market has matured significantly, offering several robust alternatives that provide even more features than Zing. Many of these platforms offer better exchange rates, wider currency coverage, and more innovative features than what Zing originally provided.
Are the Alternatives Safe?
Security is paramount when choosing a new financial service provider. All the alternatives listed below are regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and must comply with strict financial regulations. They implement bank-level security measures, including:
- Strong encryption and data protection protocols
- Two-factor authentication for all transactions
- Regular security audits and compliance checks
- Segregated user funds held in tier-1 banks
- Full regulatory compliance with UK and EU financial regulations
Top 5 Alternatives to Zing
1. Wise (Formerly TransferWise)
Best for International Transfers and Transparency
- Real mid-market exchange rates with no markup
- Local bank details in 10+ countries
- Multi-currency accounts supporting 40+ currencies
- Clear fee structure with no hidden charges
- Business and personal accounts available
- Regulated by FCA with proven track record
Monthly Fee: Free (fees only apply to currency conversions and transfers)
2. Revolut
Best for Digital Banking and Daily Use
- Multiple currency accounts
- Investment and cryptocurrency trading options
- Premium features including travel insurance
- Mobile-first experience
- European banking license
- Extensive reward programs
Monthly Fee: Free basic account, Premium from £6.99/month
3. Monzo
Best for UK-Based Banking with International Features
- Full UK bank account with FSCS protection
- Competitive international transfer rates
- User-friendly budgeting tools
- Seamless integration with other UK services
- Joint accounts available
- Interest-bearing savings accounts
Monthly Fee: Free basic account, Plus from £5/month
4. Nsave
Best for Digital Savings and Investment
- UK-regulated digital banking platform
- High-yield savings accounts
- Smart investment portfolios
- Automated saving features
Monthly Fee: Free basic account, Premium from £2.99/month
5. Monese
Best for Quick Setup and Flexibility
- Easy account opening without UK address
- Multi-currency support
- Competitive international transfer rates
- Business accounts available
- Cash deposits at Post Office locations
- Instant virtual cards
Monthly Fee: Free starter plan, Premium from £14.95/month
Making the Switch: Key Considerations
When choosing your new platform, consider:
- Geographic coverage and supported currencies
- Fee structure and exchange rates
- Additional features like budgeting tools or investment options
- Integration with your existing financial setup
- Level of customer support
- Mobile app functionality and user experience
Zing Alternatives Conclusion
While HSBC's decision to close Zing may be disappointing, the current fintech landscape offers several sophisticated alternatives that can better serve your international payment needs. Wise stands out for its transparency and competitive rates, while Revolut offers a comprehensive digital banking experience. Monzo provides strong UK banking features, N26 excels in European coverage, and Monese offers unmatched flexibility in account setup.
The key is to act promptly and choose a provider that best matches your specific needs. Consider starting with a free account on one or two platforms to test their services before fully committing. Remember to download your transaction history from Zing and methodically transfer your recurring payments to your new chosen platform.
Note: All fees and features mentioned are current as of February 2025. Always verify current rates and services directly with providers for your specific needs and location.