Large business transfers come with increased currency risk. Working specifically with a currency broker, that will account manage your transfer can make a huge difference.

Exchange rates will be agreed ahead of transfers, but will be better than using a traditional business bank account. Fees will also be lower, or non-existent, and the money should arrive at the intended destination quicker as well.

Often, tools like forward contacts will be used for any planned payments in the future.

Large business transfers and currency brokers

Using a currency broker offers a range of benefits against other types of business transfer companies, and banks.

Account managed
Account managed

Currency brokers offer an account-managed money transfer service. This can give you a range of benefits - notably support on larger, complex transactions.

In some cases, support is available 24/7, in others, it is office hours in the country the broker operates from.

They will be able to offer insights into currency fluctuations and at times provide currency forecasts and advise on when is best to make a transaction.

Tailored currency risk strategy
Tailored currency risk strategy

Currency brokers can offer tailored risk management solutions and strategies for businesses with high levels of cross border currency risk.

These risk strategies can include forward contracts and limit orders.

Companies like Moneycorp will also conduct an FX audit and currency risk audit to give an idea of the best approach for long term currency management risk.

Legal and tax obligations
Legal and tax obligations

Working with a currency broker will aid in legal and tax obligations being met. This can be through fulfilling them with the currency broker or ensuring the transaction is set up correctly.

In most cases, this can also be self managed, however having a currency broker to hand is relatively helpful.

Exchange rates and fees
Exchange rates and fees

Most currency brokers do not charge fees, but be aware the hands on service can come with a slightly higher exchange rate than a digital provider.

As an example, Airwallex charges a 0.5% markup across the board, whereas the TorFX markup starts at 0.4%, but can be as high as 1.5%.

Why opt for a currency broker over a standard bank account

Cheapest and fastest ways to send large amounts
Currency risk is reduced
Specialists for things like M&As

Be clear on

Exchange rates aren't always available until you discuss the transfer

The rate and fee paid to a currency broker is agreed in advance, but may not be the same for every transaction.

On a case by case basis it pays to shop around, or agree a rate with a currency broker for a set period of time.

This can be done through a forward contract, but be aware a company is legally obliged to fill this type of order.

Support is hands on, but it differs

Depending on the level of support needed, different companies may be more appropriate.

For example, some will offer 24/7 support over the phone, others will give you a dedicated account manager - usually available in office hours.

The right option is based on your business, both have merits.

Large transfers are subject to additional checks

Timeframes for sending large amounts of money can be a little longer than smaller, regular payments.

AML checks and KYC are of particular note when using a currency broker.

Also, timezones will have an impact on transfer speed.

They’re not FX companies

Just to be clear, a currency broker is not an FX broker. There is no overlap with trading within these companies and all are regulated to action money transfers within the countries they operate.

The providers

Compare currency brokers

Compare providers
The right currency broker is different for every business. We always recommend comparing to get a clear picture of what is on offer, vs what it is your business needs.
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Use cases

Currency brokers are used by many different company types across the world. Here are some examples of where they have been used.

Recapping large transfers

  • Currency brokers offer a better deal for large transfers than banks

  • Currency brokers will work with you put in place currency risk management strategies

  • Currency brokers provide account management, or 24/7 over the phone support

  • Currency brokers often charge no fees, and exchange rates can start from as little as 0.4%