Money transfer services are vital to the global economy, and they’ve been undergoing rapid change in recent years. Traditional incumbent Western Union processes over $70 billion per year, but it’s facing competition from fintech newcomers like Transferwise and Xoom. As these firms grow, they’re working to differentiate themselves from Western Union by offering services that are easier for customers to use and have lower fees.
These services allow people to transfer cash with the tap of a button, and they often support many different currencies and destinations. They also tend to have lower transfer fees than banks. In some cases, the difference between what an online service charges and what a bank charges can be significant. This makes it well worth taking the time to compare features, fees and options before picking a provider.
A good way to start comparing is to look at the total transfer cost. This includes both the upfront fee and the exchange rate markup. You can then find a provider that offers the lowest total cost for your specific needs. Another good tip is to check the speed of the service you need. While some providers can offer instant transfers, others may take up to 24 hours.
Some of the best money transfer services provide excellent customer support, either on the phone or via chat. This can be particularly helpful if you have questions or issues with a transaction. They can also provide updates and guidance about market developments that might affect your transfer.
In addition, the best services have apps that let you transfer funds with the touch of a button. This makes them ideal for busy people who want to keep track of their spending and savings while on the go. In addition, these services usually offer a variety of payment methods, including credit and debit cards.
One of the biggest benefits of using a money transfer service is that it gives you peace of mind that your money is in safe hands. This is especially important if you’re sending money to someone you don’t know, or if you aren’t comfortable giving out your banking information to a stranger.
Using a digital money transfer service also means you’ll have a record of your activity, which can be useful for budgeting. If you’re splitting a restaurant or cell phone bill, for example, it can help to know exactly how much you owe and how much your recipient will receive.
The world of money transfer services can be complicated and confusing, but it’s essential to understand the various options available and how they work. By taking the time to compare features, fees and coverage, you can pick the best option for your needs.