THIS WEEK ABROAD
Why are Americans moving abroad in record numbers? A new magazine article tells the story of the U.S. exodus. Plus, we’re spotlighting our research on the five best debit cards to help you avoid ATM fees forever. (Seriously.)
We have everything you need to know in this week’s newsletter.👇
MUST-KNOW NEWS
THE NEW YORKER MAGAZINE: WHY AMERICANS ARE LEAVING
We’re finally going mainstream… sorta.
In a recent New Yorker report, teachers, veterans, freelancers, and professionals from across the U.S. describe why vague talk of “moving abroad someday” has turned into urgent action.
For many, politics provided the final push. But there’s more to the story than the never-ending political debate. Rising living costs, shaky retirement prospects, crime, and a subpar health-care system are also driving Americans abroad.
The article takes place in the Netherlands, where many expats are attracted to affordable health care, efficient public services, and a sense of social stability.
Immigration lawyers say this moment feels different from past election-year threats to leave. Today, more Americans are following through. Ironically, they are now emigrating for the same reasons generations once immigrated to the U.S. — safety, security, and the hope of a better future.
VIDEO OF THE WEEK
💳 AVOID ATM FEES FOREVER WITH THESE DEBIT CARDS
If there’s one thing that I wish someone told me before I went abroad, it’s that paying ATM fees is like flushing money down the toilet. That’s why every heavy traveler needs a debit card that reimburses you for ATM fees.
Our new video on the best debit cards for travelers provides up-to-date comparisons of six leading options. The key features considered are ATM fee rebates, foreign transaction fees, account fees, annual percentage yield (APY), and customer service.
Here's a summary of the top-rated cards:
• Schwab Bank Visa® Platinum Debit Card
Offers unlimited ATM fee rebates, no foreign transaction fees, and no account fees. Schwab boasts legendary customer service and physical locations. You will need to open a free brokerage account in order to apply for the checking account.
• Betterment Visa® Debit Card
Provides unlimited ATM fee rebates, no foreign transaction fees, and no account fees. However, note that Betterment is online only; no physical check deposits or in-person branches.
• Fidelity Cash Management Card
Offers unlimited ATM fee rebates, no account fees, and no foreign transaction fee. It also offers a 2% interest rate on your account balance, which is much higher than the other cards on this list.
• USAA Debit Card
Offers up to $10/month in ATM fee rebates, no account fees, and physical locations. However, it's only available to current/former U.S. military or the spouse/children of a current USAA member. Note that the card carries a 1% foreign transaction fee for purchases.
• NB Debit Mastercard®
Offers unlimited ATM fee rebates, no foreign transaction fees, and no account fees. It also has physical locations in the Boston area. However, the APY is low and customer service is not available on Sundays.
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