Barclays

Understanding FX

Here is a general overview of FX

What is FX?
At the most basic level FX is changing one currency into another currency. Some of the reasons people exchange currency might be:

• To use when they are in another country
• If they are making a significant purchase that has to be conducted in a specific currency
• Seeking opportunities to invest in products using a different currency

FX videos

View our online FX videos:

• The basics of foreign exchange
• I want to buy a house in another currency
• I want to make regular payments in a different currency
• I want to manage my overall FX exposure as I'm holding a lot of different currencies

Where should I turn to inform my FX decisions?
We provide a range of research and scenarios within these online modules. You can also speak with our team who can provide you with information to help inform your decisions.

Understanding FX: a case study¹ of Gabe

Gabe is a French national residing in France, and he wants to know more about the basics of FX . He has changed money for various international business assignments in the past, but he knows there must be more to the foreign currency market than this.

His FX research
Gabe starts by doing some research:

• Identifying some short and long term factors that can affect currency rates
• Collating background information on FX
• Increasing his understanding of the FX market and how it works
• Getting a current view of the FX market
• Analysing the potential risks

His next steps
What decisions Gabe makes regarding his currency also depend on his personal circumstances, such as:

• His capacity for risk
• What his short or long terms goals are and how this fits into his overall portfolio

As Gabe is an existing client of Barclays International he talked through his objectives with an experienced International Investment Adviser who provided specific investment advice. He also spoke to a Barclays International Treasury Specialist who presented him with important information to help inform his decision to carry out a transaction.

More information and how to apply for our services

As you can see from the case study¹ of Gabe his decision was based on many factors that are unique to him. If you want to find out more information and discuss your FX options with our team please contact us.

If you are not currently a Barclays International client, but are interested in our FX services you will first need to apply for our banking services, which you can do by calling +44 (0)1624 684498^† or accessing our online application by pressing the button below.

If you are an existing client and would like to find out more information please either contact your Relationship Manager, call us on +44 (0)1624 684498^† or complete a call back request form.

Please note: access to our Treasury Specialists is via a three-way conference call. Clients who do not have a Relationship Manager and require a call with a Treasury Specialist or want to conduct a FX forward should either:

• Hold assets of £50,000 with us, or
• Intend to transact a minimum £50k (or currency equivalent)