Something is cruising through New York City and it’s riding in NYC’s wealthiest pockets. The Magnises Card– a 2 by 3 inch, smooth, metallic, credit card that rewards its owner with New York City’s best exclusive deals and benefits.
When college drop out, whiz-kid Billy Macfarland, launched the card in 2013, he sought to change the face of credit card rewards. Sure, flight perks were nice and great hotel deals were convenient, but he wanted to reward his card members with something different and unique, something far more gratifying than a cheap hotel room. Curbing the Magnises Card’s rewards in a social life-centric direction, he sought to create a network experience, a community.
It’s important to know that this slick, black card isn’t actually a credit card. It’s more of an impressive payment tool, a way to doll up your everyday Wells Fargo or American Express card. The card actually works by taking your previous credit or debit card information and activating it onto the Magnises Card. However, the card isn’t just solely about presentation, it’s about the benefits.
So what exactly does this little black card offer to its members? Well, some of the perks include reservations at the best restaurants in NYC, guaranteed memberships to any sports club or gym in the city, secured access to the most exclusive venues, and reservations to various cocktail parties, dinners, and concerts hosted by Magnises itself. And it doesn’t stop there. Any Magnises member can get access to the Magnises Townhouse at Abingdon Square at any time to relax, grab a coffee, network, or just visit the West Village townhouse that their magical black card gifts them. But hey, this beautiful West Village townhouse isn’t just a chill, coffee pit stop. Apparently the house is jam-packed with great art, games, and liquor – giving the Magnises members a swanky place to throw parties. And if all that isn’t enough, the Magnises also offers monthly perks like VIP access to the MTV Music Video Awards, or a chance to be in Afrojack’s next music video.
You’re probably asking yourself, where do I sign up? Unfortunately, the Magnises Card membership has a selective application process. Membership is targeted at young entrepreneurs, young business owners, and “Zuckerberg types.” In fact, eighty-five percent of cardholders are between 21 and 29 years old. Yes, okay, the membership is a little exclusive, but don’t lose hope my fellow astute Barnard and Columbia students! The main trait Magnises values? Brains. They’re looking for smart people with a great education. So why not apply? The application form has a variety of questions asked from where you shop, to your annual income, to what you do for fun. Anyone can apply, except it should be noted that membership is by referral only. In addition to the application, if accepted, there is a $250 annual fee to be in the Magnises clique. I’m sure for anyone accepted, this is not too grand of a toll.
Founder Billy MacFarland essentially reminds us that when it comes to most things in life, popularity matters. The ultimate test and the final decision, McFarland suggests, is based on whether the rest of the group thinks you are cool enough.