The HSBC Live+ Credit Card has long been a popular choice, especially for those looking to earn generous cashback on dining and food delivery spends. However, HSBC has now announced several changes to the card’s features and benefits, effective 26 July 2026. While the bank has reduced the forex markup fee on international transactions, it has also cut complimentary domestic airport lounge access from 4 visits to 2 visits per year and introduced new exclusions for cashback earnings.
Forex Markup Reduced
The foreign exchange markup fee on international transactions will be reduced from 3.5% to 1.99%. This is a positive change for the card and would allow users to make international spends without having to pay the standard 3.5% charge.
Airport Lounge Access Devalued
HSBC has revised the complimentary domestic airport lounge benefit.
Current Benefit
- 4 complimentary domestic lounge visits per calendar year
- Maximum 1 visit per calendar quarter
New Benefit (From 26 July 2026)
- 2 complimentary domestic lounge visits per calendar year
- Maximum 1 visit every six months
Cashback Removed for Select Categories
Transactions under the following Merchant Category Codes (MCCs) will no longer earn 1.5% cashback:
- Hospitals (MCC 8062)
- Local Transportation – Bus/Subway Transit (MCC 4111)
All other terms and conditions of the HSBC Live+ Credit Card remain unchanged.
Bottom Line
The latest changes are a mixed bag for HSBC Live+ Credit Cardholders. While the reduction in forex markup to 1.99% is a welcome improvement for international spending, the removal of 1.5% cashback on overseas transactions offsets much of that benefit. The reduction in complimentary airport lounge visits from 4 to 2 per year is another notable devaluation, especially for frequent travelers.
For users who primarily use the card for its 10% cashback on dining, grocery, and food delivery, the core proposition remains unchanged. However, the travel-related benefits have certainly become less attractive.