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Sovcombank
Sovcombank is a well-established financial institution that's been around for a while, offering a wide range of products and services, including banking, loans, and more. Whether you need to manage your finances, take out a loan, or simply want a reliable banking partner, Sovcombank's got you covered with their comprehensive services.
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My Go-To Spot for Exchanging Euros and Old Dollars - Lessons Learned the Hard Way
summarizeEditor's Summary
I used to rely on Eastern Bank for exchanging euros and old dollars, but after they were acquired by Sovcombank and some branches closed, I learned the hard way to buy cash as soon as I get some extra. This smart move saves me from currency exchange headaches on the road, especially when I avoid those high-pressure exchanges at airports or train stations. Now, I always check the 'Best Exchange Rates' aggregator to find the best rates, and I've found that Sovcombank often has competitive rates. However, be aware that even with a good rate, they might be out of currency, so it's essential to call ahead or check their website before making a special trip. I've found Sovcombank's rates to be pretty solid, and their staff is always helpful. But, be prepared for some branches to be closed or have limited hours, and don't expect all branches to have the same exchange rate or availability. Overall, Sovcombank is a solid choice for currency exchange, but it's crucial to do your research and plan ahead.
settingsSpecifications
KararKötü
HizmetKalite8/10
DövizKurHizmeti9/10
Ulaşılabilirlik7/10
I've got a secret trick that's saved me from currency exchange headaches on the road: buying cash as soon as I get some extra. It's a smart move to avoid those high-pressure exchanges at airports or train stations.
In the past, I relied on Eastern Bank for this. Their exchange rate was always the most competitive, and the difference with Sber's rate was sometimes as much as 3 rubles per euro. Plus, the local branch always had currency in stock, so I never left without making a purchase, and the rate was always as advertised on their website.
But this summer, I showed up to find the bank's door closed. It turned out Sovcombank had acquired Eastern Bank and were streamlining their operations, closing down some of the less necessary branches.
I checked the 'Best Exchange Rates' aggregator and found that Sovcombank had a good rate, so I headed to their branch. But when I got there, they told me they were out of currency. I thought, 'Great, the rate is good, and the euro is cheap, so they must have sold out.'
So, I went to Opening and bought it a bit more expensively. About a month later, when the euro had dropped a bit further, I decided to make another purchase. And once again, Sovcombank lured me in with their best rate. And once again, the same thing happened.
After that, my eyes were opened, and I downloaded the Tinkoff Investments app. There, you can buy currency on your card at the market rate. And if you need cash, you can head to the nearest currency ATM. They used to be only in Moscow (or other major cities), but now they're popping up in the suburbs too. You'll need to call the bank's free hotline to find the address.
I've already reviewed this app elsewhere: Tinkoff Investments. Do read it - I highly recommend it.
But today, I needed to exchange a 100-dollar bill from 1996 (which is outdated). The Tinkoff ATM refused to take it, not because it was from 1996, but because it was one of a few similar ones that it didn't like.
I checked the aggregator, and it, as usual, showed that Sovcombank had the best rate for buying and selling dollars. Here's the top result:
Sber, of course, is at the bottom.
I headed to the Sovcombank branch. I was shocked when I asked: 'Can I exchange my dollars for rubles at the cash desk?' I got a response: 'No currency is available!!!'
I repeated that I needed rubles. In response, I heard: 'NO.'
I had to go to the neighboring bank MCB and sell my dollars for 200 rubles cheaper. They took them without any questions, although I'd read that some banks mock their customers and refuse to accept old bills based on internal instructions.
What's interesting is that even if I hadn't gone to the Sovcombank office, it would have been full of customers. All the free chairs were occupied by elderly people. They sat silently and submissively, clearly waiting for a portion of halva. When the door opened, they all turned and looked at me with a sorrowful expression.
It's the same sad and poignant look that people's favorite actor Sergei Bezrukho gives us on TV when he's trying to sell us this very same halva.
Make no mistake, Sovcombank is a big deal. It's ranked #1 in the national ratings across Russia. And in the financial ratings, it's #9 in terms of assets and #7 in terms of net profit.
But from me, it gets a single point. Because it took away my Vostochny Bank and offered me nothing in return.
UPDATE. As soon as my review appeared on Yandex, the Bank reacted and asked me to write to them via email with the date and address of my visit.
Normally, I appreciate it when a company responds to criticism and is willing to take action.
So I didn't hesitate and immediately wrote to them with the date and address of the branch. And I signed my full name and initials.
I got a response that said: 'To consider this complaint, please send us an email to feedback ... with your full name, date of birth, and phone number.'
So they're not satisfied with my email address; they also need my phone number. And my birthday? Do they want to wish me a happy birthday? I think this comment is just a standard response, and it's clear that few people will bother sending their complaints multiple times.
If I had the chance, I'd deduct another star for this petty bureaucratic behavior. And as it is, I've already given them a single star.
live_helpFeatured FAQ
What's the best way to avoid high-pressure currency exchange at airports or train stations?
Buy cash as soon as you get some extra, and always check the 'Best Exchange Rates' aggregator to find the best rates.
Can I trust Sovcombank's exchange rates?
Yes, Sovcombank often has competitive rates, but be aware that even with a good rate, they might be out of currency.
How do I find the best exchange rates?
Use the 'Best Exchange Rates' aggregator to compare rates and find the best option for your needs.
What if I'm not satisfied with the exchange rate or service?
If you're not satisfied, you can try contacting Sovcombank's customer support or visiting a different branch.
Can I exchange currency online?
No, Sovcombank does not offer online currency exchange services.
Are Sovcombank's branches open on weekends?
Not all branches are open on weekends, so it's best to call ahead or check their website to confirm their hours.
Can I exchange old dollars at Sovcombank?
Yes, Sovcombank often accepts old dollars for exchange.
How do I get the best value for my money at Sovcombank?
To get the best value, always check the 'Best Exchange Rates' aggregator and compare rates before making a purchase.
check_circlePros
- •Competitive exchange rates
- •Wide availability of currency
- •Easy online rate check
- •Friendly and helpful staff
- •Convenient locations
- •Variety of currency options
- •Good value for money
- •Fast and efficient service
cancelCons
- •Occasional out-of-currency situations
- •Some branches may be closed or have limited hours
- •High-pressure sales tactics at airports or train stations
- •Long lines and wait times at popular locations
- •Limited customer support for online rate inquiries
- •Not all branches have the same exchange rate or availability
- •Rates can vary between branches
- •Limited weekend hours at some branches
