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For access to your online account please contact your personal account manager, alternatively email team@regencyfx.com.
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For access to your online account please contact your personal account manager, alternatively email team@regencyfx.com.
As global trade and overseas property purchases increase, more individuals and businesses are moving large sums of money across borders. Traditionally, banks have been the default option. However, for high-value or time-critical international transfers, specialist currency brokers are increasingly the smarter choice.
This guide explains why using a currency broker rather than a bank can deliver better pricing, faster settlement and more personalised support.
Banks often apply hidden margins to exchange rates, alongside wire fees, intermediary bank charges and unclear settlement costs. These charges can significantly increase the true cost of an international transfer, particularly for larger amounts.
Currency brokers provide transparent FX pricing, typically offering rates much closer to the interbank market. Fees are clearly disclosed, making it easier to understand the true cost of a transaction.
For large transfers, even a small difference in the exchange rate can translate into thousands of pounds saved.
International bank transfers commonly rely on the SWIFT network, which can result in settlement times of two to five business days and delays caused by intermediary banks.
Specialist FX brokers use local payment rails and pre-funded accounts, allowing many major currency transfers to settle on the same day or the next business day. This speed and reliability are particularly valuable for time-sensitive payments such as overseas property completions or supplier payments.
Fast settlement provides certainty and reduces any issues that could be caused by delayed funds.
Security is critical when transferring large sums internationally. Reputable currency brokers are fully regulated and operate segregated client accounts.
This means client funds are held separately from the broker’s operating capital and are protected in line with regulatory requirements. Safeguarding provides peace of mind and ensures funds are handled securely throughout the transfer process.
Exchange rates fluctuate constantly and for large or future-dated payments this volatility can materially impact costs.
Currency brokers offer a range of hedging tools designed to manage FX risk, including:
These tools are particularly valuable for overseas property buyers, SMEs and organisations seeking budget certainty and protection from currency fluctuations.
Banks often provide generalised support through call centres or relationship managers who may not specialise in foreign exchange.
Currency brokers focus exclusively on FX and international payments meaning you benefit from a dedicated FX account manager who understands your requirements, provides market insight and supports complex or high-value transactions.
This specialist support is especially important for six-figure and seven-figure transfers, regulated transactions and businesses managing ongoing currency exposure.
Rates in the image shown are for guidance purposes only. Please get in touch for an up-to-date quote.
Modern currency brokers combine digital efficiency with human expertise. Secure self-service FX portals allow you to book trades, track payments and access reporting in real time, while still having direct access to an experienced specialist when required.
This balance delivers operational efficiency without sacrificing control or expert guidance.
Currency brokers typically charge between 0.2% and 1.5% above the mid-market rate, while banks often markup 2–5%. This difference can add up quickly, especially on high-value transfers. The larger the amount, the more significant the savings.
On a €300,000 transfer, a bank charging a 4% markup could cost around €12,000 in fees. This saving could end up being enough to purchase a brand new kitchen in your new house.
Brokers specialise in foreign exchange and access rates close to the interbank market. Banks often include hidden markups to cover overheads. Brokers pass their lower costs directly to clients.
Most brokers are transparent, including their cost in the exchange rate or charging a small flat fee. Banks, on the other hand, often layer additional wire fees and intermediary charges. With a broker, you know the full cost upfront.
Even on smaller transfers, brokers usually offer better rates than banks. For €50,000, you could save over €1,000 compared to a bank. The savings grow substantially as the transfer size increases.
Regency FX specialises in high-value and complex foreign exchange requirements. Our services are designed for individuals and organisations that need more than a basic international payment.
Benefit from:
Banks remain a familiar option for international transfers, but for larger amounts and more complex requirements, specialist currency brokers offer clear advantages. Better pricing, faster settlement, risk management tools and expert support can make a meaningful difference to both cost and certainty.
For anyone transferring significant sums internationally, choosing the right FX partner is a critical financial decision.
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