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Foreign Exchange

Foreign exchange is, simply, the trading of one kind of currency for another. The foreign exchange market has no central exchange, and is run primarily 'over-the-counter' by banks, companies and ordinary people who are constantly trading currencies. Investors and entrepreneurs can respond instantly, 24 hours a day, to changes in the foreign exchange market, which are invariably affected by economic, social and political occurrences.

There isn't a single exchange rate, but rather a number of different rates or prices depending on what banks or market makers are trading, and where they are doing so.

Among others, the main participants in the foreign exchange market are:

• Banks
• Commercial companies
• Hedge funds
• Foreign exchange brokers
• Investment management companies

Factors which influence the foreign exchange market are:

• Economies
• Government deficits or surpluses
• Trade levels and trends
• Inflation levels and trends
• Economic growth and health
• Political Conditions
• Market Psychology
• Speculation

In order to obtain a good deal on the exchange, using a currency broker is advisable. Not only can a currency broker provide a competitive exchange rate, they don't have the excess costs of high street bureaus or banks.

You can also use a 'watch' service, which allows you to set a target exchange rate, and, once that rate is reached, your broker will exchange the currency for you. Exchange rates fluctuate every minute and hour of the day, and a broker will always have their finger on the pulse, ensuring you get the best deal at the right time.

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