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Currency guides

Plain-English guides to getting a fair exchange rate and avoiding unnecessary fees.

What Is the Mid-Market Exchange Rate? The mid-market rate is the 'real' exchange rate banks trade at. Here's what it means, where to find it, and why you rarely get it. Why Is My Bank's Exchange Rate Worse Than the One Online? Your bank's exchange rate looks worse than Google's for a reason: the spread, fees and a few traps like dynamic currency conversion. Here's how to spot them. How to Avoid Hidden Currency Fees Abroad and on Transfers Practical ways to cut the cost of exchanging money: compare total cost, skip the airport, refuse DCC, and use the right account or card. When Is the Best Time to Exchange Currency? Nobody can reliably time exchange rates, but a few sensible tactics help you avoid the worst moments and reduce risk on larger amounts. Travel Money: How to Pay Abroad Without Overpaying A simple approach to travel money: mix card and cash, always pay in local currency, use a low-fee card, and skip the airport bureau. What Is a Currency Spread? The spread is the gap between the buy and sell price of a currency — and the main way providers make money on exchange. Here's how it works. How to Send Money Abroad: A Step-by-Step Guide Sending money overseas? Compare the total cost, choose the right provider, and avoid the spread traps. A practical step-by-step.