Core Insights - Bilt has expanded its offerings with the launch of Bilt 2.0, introducing three new rewards credit cards that now include homeowners for rewards on mortgage payments [1][2] Group 1: New Features of Bilt 2.0 - Bilt 2.0 allows users to earn rewards on both rent and mortgage payments, with options for transaction fees impacting points earned [4][5] - Users can choose between a 3% transaction fee to earn maximum points or avoid the fee by using Bilt Cash, which is a new rewards currency [5][6] - For example, a $1,500 monthly rent payment would require $45 Bilt Cash to cover the 3% fee while earning 1,500 Bilt Points [6][10] Group 2: Bilt Cash Mechanics - Bilt Cash is necessary to maximize rewards on housing payments, but rent and mortgage payments do not earn Bilt Cash directly [9][12] - Users can earn 4% Bilt Cash on everyday spending, which can be used to cover fees or boost points on housing payments [9][10] - Bilt Cash expires at the end of each calendar year, but up to $100 can be rolled over to the next year [12] Group 3: Overview of New Credit Cards - The Bilt Blue Card has no annual fee, offering 4% Bilt Cash on everyday spending and a $100 welcome bonus [14] - The Bilt Obsidian Card, with a $95 annual fee, provides additional rewards such as 3x points on dining or groceries and a $200 welcome bonus [15][16] - The Bilt Palladium Card, the premium option with a $495 annual fee, offers extensive benefits including a $300 sign-up bonus and 2x points on everyday spending [17][18] Group 4: Transition for Existing Cardholders - Existing Wells Fargo Bilt Mastercard holders can continue using their cards until February 6, with a transition to a new Bilt 2.0 card available without a new credit check [19] - Users will retain their Bilt Points and can still redeem them even if they choose not to switch to a new card [20]

Core Insights - Bilt and Rakuten have launched a partnership allowing over 5 million Bilt Members to convert Rakuten Cash Back into Bilt Points, enhancing the rewards experience during the holiday shopping season [1][4][5] Partnership Details - The partnership enables Bilt Members to earn rewards on purchases made at over 3,500 retailers through Rakuten, with the integration available in the Bilt app and Rakuten's platforms [2][4] - Members can redeem Rakuten Cash Back for Bilt Points at an introductory rate of 1:1 for the first six months, meaning $10 in Cash Back equals 1,000 Bilt Points [5][7] Benefits for Users - Bilt Members can earn points on everyday purchases, which can be used for various rewards such as travel, rent credits, and fitness classes [3][9] - A welcome bonus of 2,500 Bilt Points is available for new Rakuten sign-ups through the Bilt app after a qualifying purchase of $25 or more [5][8] Strategic Timing - The launch coincides with the holiday shopping season, particularly Black Friday, making it an opportune time for consumers to maximize their rewards [1][4] Company Background - Bilt is a loyalty program designed for renters, allowing them to earn rewards on rent and HOA payments, while Rakuten is a leading Cash Back shopping platform with over $4.6 billion in Cash Back earned by its members since 1999 [9][10]

Core Insights - Venmo is expanding its services beyond peer-to-peer payments by allowing users to make rent, mortgage, and retail payments starting in 2026 through a partnership with Bilt Rewards [1][5][11] Group 1: Partnership Details - The collaboration with Bilt, which has over 5 million members and represents one in four residential buildings in the U.S., will enable Bilt members to make payments directly through Venmo using their balance or linked payment methods [2][8] - Venmo will be integrated into Bilt's existing payment options, enhancing the platform's utility for everyday transactions [2][5] Group 2: User Benefits - The partnership will provide access to Bilt's network of over 45,000 merchants, allowing nearly 100 million Venmo users to make payments at local businesses within the Bilt ecosystem [8] - Bilt members will also earn Bilt Points for their transactions, which can be redeemed for various rewards such as travel and home décor [9] Group 3: Strategic Goals - This initiative marks a significant evolution for Venmo, transitioning from a peer-to-peer payment app to a comprehensive everyday commerce platform [5][11] - PayPal aims to make managing large recurring expenses, like rent, more rewarding for users, with early feedback indicating positive reception [11]