Bank of Ireland becomes the first Irish bank to be Hidden Disabilities Sunflower friendly

Bank of Ireland is the first Irish bank to become Hidden Disabilities Sunflower friendly, with all of its 182 branches across Ireland and Northern Ireland now recognising the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower symbol, as well as extending its JAM Card partnership.

The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower is a simple tool for people to voluntarily share that they have a “non-visible” disability or condition that may not immediately be apparent to others. Those availing of the service can wear a Hidden Disabilities Sunflower lanyard or pin to indicate that they may need a helping hand, or more time in bank branches, with Bank of Ireland branch colleagues trained to identify the Sunflower ensuring additional supports can be provided when required.

The JAM Card is another discreet way to let others know that you need ‘Just A Minute’ of patience and support, with Bank of Ireland first becoming JAM Card friendly in July 2020. Customers can show their JAM Card in branches to let a member of staff know they need a little extra time or assistance when doing their banking and all Bank of Ireland branch teams have also been trained to recognise the JAM Card.

In addition to the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower and Jam Card initiatives, Bank of Ireland is introducing a broader programme of customer accessibility enhancements, including accessible ATMs, simpler customer communications, and new supports for customers with hearing impairments. These changes are part of a wide range of accessibility improvements being carried out across the Bank following the introduction of the European Accessibility Act.

Áine McCleary, Chief Customer Officer, Bank of Ireland said: “Providing an accessible and welcoming banking experience for all our customers is a priority, and I am delighted that we are the first Irish bank to become Hidden Disabilities Sunflower friendly. We also recognise the JAM Card across our entire network, are installing 650 new accessible ATMs, and have improved supports for customers who are deaf or have hearing or speech difficulties with SignVideo – an on-demand sign language video interpretation service. These initiatives help remove barriers that some customers encounter on a daily basis, and we will continue working to provide inclusive banking services across our entire customer base.”

Paul White, CEO at Hidden Disabilities Sunflower, said: “We are delighted to have worked with Bank of Ireland to ensure all their branches are now Hidden Disabilities Sunflower friendly. I want to recognise the continuing steps the Bank is taking to provide an inclusive banking experience for all its customers.”

Seven Ways a Global Digital Bank Can Ease Overseas Travel for You

Traveling abroad can be an exciting adventure, whether it’s for business, leisure, or an extended stay as a digital nomad. But let’s be honest—managing money while hopping between countries isn’t always smooth sailing. From sky-high transaction fees to unexpected card declines, financial hurdles can quickly turn a dream trip into a logistical nightmare.

That’s where global digital banks prove helpful. Unlike traditional banks, which often struggle to keep up with the fast-paced world of international travel, digital banks are built for flexibility, accessibility, and cost efficiency. Then, taking this to a global scale, fintech companies like Black Banx have helped revolutionize the way travelers handle their finances, offering features like multi-currency accounts, low-cost international transactions, and enhanced security measures.

With over 35 million digital nomads worldwide as of 2024—a number expected to grow—there’s never been a greater need for seamless banking solutions. Likewise, business travel spending is projected to increase by 10.4% in 2025, shifting towards purposeful, high-impact trips. Whether you’re a remote worker, an entrepreneur, or a corporate traveler, choosing the right bank can make all the difference.

So, how exactly can a global digital bank make overseas travel easier for you? Let’s break it down.

1. Lower Fees and Cost Savings

One of the biggest financial pitfalls of international travel? Transaction fees. Traditional banks charge steep fees for international withdrawals, foreign currency transactions, and wire transfers. Over time, these costs add up and eat into your travel budget.

How Global Digital Banks Help:

 

  • Fee-Free Transfers: Black Banx offers free transfers between its accounts, making it ideal for those splitting costs with fellow travelers or managing payments across borders.
  • Low-Cost International Payments: Unlike conventional banks, which impose hefty charges, Black Banx provides competitive rates for cross-border transactions.
  • Better Exchange Rates: Traditional banks and local exchange bureaus often offer poor conversion rates, meaning you lose money every time you switch currencies. With Black Banx’s real-time currency exchange across 28 FIAT currencies and 2 cryptocurrencies, travelers get more value for their money.

2. Hassle-Free Multi-Currency Management

Juggling multiple currencies can be frustrating, especially when you’re traveling across different regions. Exchanging cash or opening local bank accounts in every country is simply impractical.

How Global Digital Banks Help:

 

  • Multi-Currency Accounts: Black Banx allows you to hold and convert funds in 28 different currencies, meaning you can pay in local currency without worrying about exchange fees.
  • Real-Time Conversion: Instead of getting stuck with bad rates at airport kiosks, travelers can seamlessly switch between currencies at competitive rates.
  • Crypto Compatibility: For those who prefer digital assets, Black Banx also supports real-time cryptocurrency trading, offering even more financial flexibility.

3. Global Card Acceptance & Virtual Payment Options

There’s nothing worse than having your card declined while trying to book a hotel or pay for dinner in a foreign country. Some traditional bank cards aren’t optimized for international use, and frequent fraud alerts can result in unnecessary account freezes.

How Global Digital Banks Help:

 

  • Debit Cards Accepted in 180+ Countries: Black Banx offers plastic, metal, and virtual debit cards that work seamlessly across borders.
  • Integrated with Digital Wallets: Features like Apple Pay and Google Wallet compatibility ensure that you can make payments effortlessly, even in remote locations.
  • Virtual Cards for Extra Security: Instead of exposing your primary card to potential fraud, Black Banx users can generate virtual cards for online and travel-related purchases.

4. Enhanced Security for Peace of Mind

Carrying large amounts of cash or relying on outdated banking systems can put you at risk of theft and fraud. Travelers often find themselves vulnerable, especially when using unsecured ATMs or public Wi-Fi networks to access their bank accounts.

How Global Digital Banks Help:

 

  • Advanced Encryption & Multi-Factor Authentication: Black Banx employs top-tier security protocols to protect users’ funds.
  • Anonymous Banking Options: For those who value privacy, Black Banx offers anonymous accounts—a feature rarely available with traditional banks.
  • Instant Freeze & Unfreeze Options: Lost your card? No problem. Digital banks let you freeze and unfreeze your card instantly via the app, adding an extra layer of security.

5. Speed & Convenience with Instant Account Setup

Traditional banks require a mountain of paperwork just to open an account, and the process can be painfully slow—especially if you’re in a foreign country.

How Global Digital Banks Help:

 

  • Instant Account Setup: Black Banx lets users open an account within minutes, eliminating long waiting periods and excessive documentation.
  • No Need for a Local Address: Unlike traditional banks, which often require proof of residency, Black Banx makes banking accessible to travelers from anywhere.

6. Smart Financial Management Tools

Keeping track of expenses while traveling isn’t always easy, and currency fluctuations can complicate budgeting. Having the right financial tools can make a huge difference in managing money on the go.

How Global Digital Banks Help:

 

  • Real-Time Expense Tracking: Black Banx provides instant notifications for transactions, so you always know where your money is going.
  • Exchange Rate Alerts: Stay ahead of market fluctuations by monitoring exchange rates directly through the app.
  • Budgeting & Analytics: Travelers can analyze their spending patterns and set financial goals within their banking dashboard.

7. Perfect for Business Travelers

With business travel spending projected to grow by 10.4% in 2025, companies are rethinking their approach to corporate trips. More businesses are looking for cost-effective, sustainable, and digital-first financial solutions.

How Global Digital Banks Help:

 

  • Virtual Cards for Expense Management: Corporate travelers can generate virtual cards for different expenses, reducing the risk of fraud and simplifying reimbursements.
  • Seamless International Transactions: Whether you’re paying for flights, accommodations, or client meetings, Black Banx ensures smooth cross-border payments.
  • Supports Embedded Financial Services: With embedded finance expected to reach US$570 billion by 2033, Black Banx stays ahead by integrating advanced financial tools into its platform.

Managing finances while traveling no longer has to be a headache. Whether you’re a digital nomad, an entrepreneur, or a business professional, choosing a global digital bank can help you avoid high fees, navigate multiple currencies with ease, and enjoy seamless transactions wherever you go.

Black Banx is a prime example of how fintech is transforming the travel experience. With low-cost transactions, multi-currency accounts, enhanced security, and global accessibility, it’s redefining what financial freedom looks like for travelers. And with its profit before tax soaring to US$2.3 billion in 2024, it’s clear that this innovative approach to banking is here to stay.

So, before you embark on your next international adventure, ask yourself: Is your bank ready for the journey? If not, it might be time to switch to a financial partner that is. Safe travels!

 

Revolut reaches 50 million customer milestone

Revolut, the global financial technology company and licensed European bank, has today announced that it has hit 50 million customers globally.

The company has reached the 50 million milestone at high-speed, growing by over 10 million customers in 2024 so far and becoming the most downloaded financial app in Europe.  It follows a bumper year for Revolut, which in 2024 received a $45 billion valuation, was awarded a UK bank licence with restrictions from the Prudential Regulation Authority (PRA) whilst in the mobilisation stage, and announced its 2023 Group revenues had surpassed $2.2 billion with record profits before tax of $545 million.

Revolut has aggressive plans to continue to grow its customer base towards the 100 million milestone, while also rolling out new and innovative services to become the primary bank of choice for its customers. 

Nik Storonsky, CEO of Revolut, commented: “Revolut exists for one reason: to simplify money for everyone, everywhere. This year we’ve taken huge steps forwards — breaking records, accelerating the speed at which we’re launching products and continuing to disrupt financial services globally. We’re moving faster than ever because we know the opportunity to revolutionise global financial services for our customers is still massive.”

Later this week Storonsky will take to the stage at the company’s The Revolutionaries event in London to celebrate its 50 million milestone, speaking alongside co-founder and CTO Vlad Yatsenko and entrepreneur Steven Bartlett. 

An exclusive event featuring revolutionary names across music, business, fashion, sport, gaming, travel and entertainment, The Revolutionaries will close with a headline performance from the iconic Charli XCX ahead of her sold-out UK tour.

For those outside of the UK, the event will be broadcast across YouTube and other streaming platforms.

Revolut Bank UAB (Irish Branch) was recognised by financial comparison site Bonkers.ie as ‘Ireland’s Best Consumer Business’ and ‘provider of the Best Current Account’ in 2024, while the company ranked 9th as part of the Ireland RepTrak® 2024 study earlier this year.

 

 

 

 

Investment fraud attempts surge by 76% in the first half of 2024

According to the latest Bank of Ireland fraud data for the first half of 2024, the volume of investment fraud attempts has surged by 76% compared to the same period in 2023.

Investment fraud happens when fraudsters, posing as legitimate firms, offer consumers investment opportunities on social media or in a sponsored search result. A common tactic is to promise high returns and then put people under considerable pressure to commit to the investment opportunity quickly.

The majority of investment fraud cases begin on social media with customers then receiving phone calls and messages to continue the scam. The practice of re-targeting customers is also a growing trend. This is where fraudsters contact a person who has already been a victim and pose as someone trying to help the consumer recover their money. However, this is simply another way for them to try to gain access to consumers’ accounts.

Red flags of Investment Fraud:

 

  • Follow-up calls: You receive a call having clicked an investment product advert on social media or in a sponsored search result.
  • Big/fast returns: They promise a quick and profitable return, with little or no risk.
  • Pressure: They advise you must act quickly to take advantage of an “opportunity of a lifetime”.
  • Urgency: They tell you to make an urgent payment to get in on the deal.
  • Secrecy: They say you’re not to discuss the “investment” with family, friends or your bank and they may instruct you to sign a “non-disclosure agreement” (NDA).

Nicola Sadlier, Head of Fraud, Bank of Ireland said:  “The growth in investment fraud attempts is the most concerning trend we are seeing at the moment. The level of highly personalised targeting of consumers continues to grow year on year, and everyone needs to be on their guard. When it comes to this serious criminal activity, there is no room for complacency. Being alert to the ‘red flags’ – including too good to be true returns and pressure to act quickly – is vital. 

“We know that three in four consumers want to be able to speak directly with someone at their bank or financial service provider if they fall victim to fraud or are worried about a transaction. That’s why Bank of Ireland offers a 24/7 fraud telephone support for customers on 1800 946 764, available every day of the year. We encourage our customers to put this number in their phone so they have easy access to it if they ever need it.”

Bank of Ireland fraud research (Red C, 2024) reveals:

  • 94% of people have been targeted by a fraudster in the last 12 months.
  • The most common way is by text message (89%), followed by phone calls (75%) emails (65%) and fraudulent WhatsApp messages growing in prevalence at 39%.
  • When asked whether they feel personally at risk of financial fraud, 43% of people still rate themselves as having little or no risk of fraud in the next 6 months. This increases to 52% in the age 18 – 30 category, showing a high degree of complacency or over-confidence

Aine McCleary, Chief Customer Officer, Bank of Ireland said: Bank of Ireland runs one of the most comprehensive consumer fraud awareness programmes in Ireland, designed to help safeguard the financial wellbeing of our customers. However, our research shows that close to half of those surveyed do not feel at risk of fraud, and this underlines the importance of raising awareness of this very real risk.

“Bank of Ireland will spend €50 million on fraud prevention and protection measures this year and next. This includes €15 million on new fraud prevention technology, along with a range of high-profile consumer awareness campaigns and support for customers who are targeted by fraudsters.”

 A new heavy-weight fraud awareness campaign across digital and social media is being launched this week, running for the rest of the year, designed to reach the general public across a range of media. The latest phase in Bank of Ireland’s consumer fraud education campaign, now in its fourth year, will have a particular focus on media to reach the 18-30 demographic, where research has indicated a degree of over-confidence.

The campaign includes five new episodes of Fraud Watch: True Crime Stories,  a content series featuring real-life examples of fraud scenarios including advice from international cyberpsychologist Professor Mary Aiken, digital audio ads,  social influencer partnerships, a partnership with LADBible and ‘Back To Basics’ social content series.

The content highlights topical fraud scams and gives customers essential fraud prevention steps they can take.Anyone who suspects they have been a victim of fraud should contact their bank immediately so that the bank can try to stop the fraud and try to recover funds. Bank of Ireland customers can call the Fraud Team 24/7 on the Freephone line 1800 946 764.

For advice and information on how to stay safe from fraud, visit the Security Zone on the Bank of Ireland website.

Evolve IP Expands New Training Hub Reseller Knowledge Bank

Cloud collaboration provider, Evolve IP, is continuing to expand a new specialist training hub, designed to inspire reseller knowledge and put key content at their fingertips when they need it.

The ‘ucSKILLS’ digital adoption platform offers valuable tools so partners can seamlessly deliver all of Evolve IP’s solutions, as part of a powerful Unified Communications knowledge bank.

Together with technology partner iTEL, dedicated technical training content across its entire product set is available to all partners – delivered in a user-friendly central resource which is continually updated with new technical resources, fun ‘gamify’ training, videos and marketing resources.

Knowledge Is Power

Scott Rixon, Evolve IP Solutions Director, says the e-learning service has been operational for several months and continues to evolve with new content being added on a regular basis, to cement reseller knowledge across the EMEA region.

“Our partnership with iTEL will continue to totally transform our services and create a host of benefits such as optimising team knowledge and support levels, improving the overall customer experience and reducing customer churn.

“This valuable technical resource is readily available to all our customers, giving them the power to quickly resolve issues and guide customer queries.”

Rixon added that a recent study conducted by iTEL proved that having an effective digital adoption platform reduced customer churn by 35%, ensuring resellers retain their customer bases.

“In today’s fast-paced technology world it’s not always easy to keep up-to-date with the latest developments. But equally in a world of information overload it can be difficult to access advice and find the answers you’re looking for when you need it. Evolve IP’s Training Hub is the answer! It’s about creating and providing access to content at their fingertips when they need it. Training on time at the right time, for new and to support those more established team members.”

Evolve IP is designed to advance today’s hybrid workplace. It partners with many of the world’s biggest tech companies to bring together their unified communications, collaboration, voice, and contact centre tools into a single, secure solution, fine-tuned for the hybrid workforce. 

Continued Development 

Rixon emphasised: “We are only at the beginning of our journey and are now exploring ways to make the whole user experience even more engaging and enjoyable. For example building in ways we can gamify the training, by creating badges for those who are completing the courses we have set them.

“In addition, the training hub is the new home for all technical resources and marketing assets to support our resellers with communicating about our solutions to their customers. Meaning once a team has access, everything they need is in one place. We want to make it even easier to do business with us.” 

Rixon concluded: “This new service is all about empowering partners and helping cement their technical knowledge. The training hub has been very well received so far and continues to expand all the time with both technical and marketing content. We are determined this space becomes the centre for partner learning and development and a go-to Unified Communications knowledge bank.

“We are currently getting detailed feedback from our partners by encouraging them to complete a short survey. It’s important they provide us with honest feedback so we can make the space that they need to learn and develop their skills in the most effective and enjoyable way.”

Find out more about a recent webinar here.

Bank of Ireland recruiting for 100 technology roles

Bank of Ireland is recruiting for 100 technology roles to support digital projects across the Group. The roles will help drive some of the Group’s most important technology projects including new customer features on digital channels, protecting customers against fraud, and advanced data analytics.

The Bank is filling roles across data, delivery management, engineering, resilience and cyber, recruiting talent within areas such as cloud, open banking, APIs, AI and emerging technologies.

Bank of Ireland continues to invest significantly in technology across the Group. In 2023, the Bank saw an 18% year on year increase in active digital users, with over 60 enhancements to the mobile app including biometrics and additional fraud monitoring. Continued digitisation in Wealth and Insurance saw the launch of a customer portal and strong adoption of its digital advice platform.

Earlier this year, Bank of Ireland announced the largest single investment in ATMs in the last decade, with a new fleet of state-of-the-art ATMs being rolled out to all branches throughout the Island of Ireland. The Bank also announced an investment of €15 million on new fraud prevention technology.

Ciarán Coyle, Group Chief Operating Officer, Bank of Ireland said: “We continue to invest in our talent, technology and infrastructure, to ensure customers have the very best banking services. We’re currently progressing a range of innovative digital projects across the Group and we want to recruit talented specialists who can enhance the banking experience for our customers.

“Bank of Ireland offers an exciting and dynamic environment for career development. In addition to exciting projects, we provide a supportive environment with inclusive workplace policies, flexible remote work options through a network of hubs, and competitive pay and benefits. We are looking for the very best talent to join our technology team as we continue to deliver improvements for customers and colleagues across the organisation.”

New recruits will be entitled to Bank of Ireland’s suite of market-leading Family Matters policies including maternity and paternity leave, parents leave, foster care leave, early pregnancy loss, surrogacy, fertility leave, all of which are paid leave entitlements.

To apply for roles currently live, click here:

Bank of Ireland launches hybrid working hub in Galway

Bank of Ireland today launched a new hybrid working hub in Galway. The hub, based in Dockgate, Galway City provides hot desks and meeting rooms for Bank of Ireland colleagues throughout the region or visiting from other areas.

Depending on their role, most Bank of Ireland colleagues can work from a combination of home, central office locations, as well as a network of hybrid working hubs. The additional hub in Galway complements 12 other Bank of Ireland hybrid working hubs in Balbriggan, Ballycoolin, Dundalk, Gorey, Limerick, Mullingar, Naas, Newbridge, Newlands Cross, Northern Cross, Santry and Swords.

Speaking at the launch of the new Galway hub, Mayor of Galway CityCouncillor Eddie Hoare said: “There are huge benefits to remote and hybrid working, with less commuting, lower costs, stronger communities, and more time for family and leisure. I have said before that the role of Galway City Council is to promote a positive-working environment to ensure maximum benefits for the people of Galway. When it is managed well, hybrid working is a win-win for companies and employees and I’m delighted to see Bank of Ireland Galway taking such a proactive approach. I’m sure this new hub will be a welcome support for Bank of Ireland staff in the area or visiting Galway from other parts of the country.”

Bank of Ireland Group Chief Executive Myles O’ Grady said: “We have transformed what it is like to work at Bank of Ireland and our new hybrid working hub in Galway is a very tangible example of that. This new hub in Galway offers workspace for those who may base themselves in the West of Ireland or other colleagues who may be travelling to Galway for business. For our colleagues, the hybrid model offers enhanced flexibility and choice, blending home and office working for a better work-life balance. For Bank of Ireland, opening flexible hubs in large regional centres means that we can attract the best talent from across the country.” 

A survey with Bank of Ireland colleagues showed that 65% feel the enhanced flexibility is providing more time to spend with family. 54% of Bank of Ireland colleagues have saved money due to the Bank’s hybrid working model, while 26% feel they have more flexibility as to where they can live.

Bank of Ireland relaunches FDI Landing Space

Bank of Ireland has relaunched its Foreign Direct Investment (FDI)  Landing Space in Stephen’s Green, following refurbishment during the pandemic. The FDI Landing Space provides companies arriving into Ireland with co-working office space, meeting rooms and event space above the Stephens Green branch in Dublin city centre.

Bank of Ireland’s FDI team has supported over 600 international companies to set up in the Irish market over the past decade. The FDI Landing Space provides hot desks, meeting rooms and boardrooms, with companies from the US, UK, EU, China, Australia, Japan and Canada availing of the space in the past.

Speaking at the launch, Kevin Elliott, Head of Global FDI, Bank of Ireland said: “Today’s announcement further strengthens our support for international companies basing themselves in Ireland. As the leading bank in Ireland for international companies, Bank of Ireland is delighted to provide our FDI Landing Space to support companies who may be considering Ireland as a base or starting to develop operations here. It has been fantastic to see FDI companies who have directly benefited from our Stephen’s Green facility going from strength to strength and announcing significant growth plans within the Irish market over the years. Following refurbishment of the space, we are now reopening again and we look forward to supporting a new crop of international companies into the future.”

 Founded in 2011, Bluecrux is a value chain consulting and technology company which has used Bank of Ireland’s FDI Landing Space in the past. Aaron O’Brien, Managing Director UK & Ireland,  Bluecrux said: “Bank of Ireland’s FDI Landing Space in Stephen’s Green has been a great asset that helped us develop our business in Ireland. I am pleased to say that Bluecrux has expanded and we currently have a team of 14 in Ireland joining our 265 global colleagues helping us grow our business. Our plans are to grow our headcount in Ireland to 50 by 2025.  We appreciate the help and support from Bank of Ireland and I would encourage any company looking to base themselves in Ireland to utilise the FDI space as you start to establish your business here.”

Bank of Ireland’s dedicated FDI team provides access to a full service offering for international companies, including electronic banking, payments, foreign exchange and treasury facilities, private wealth management and employee benefits solutions.