Foreign exchange broker Currency Index launches new International Payments site

by Charlotte Ashton United Kingdom

Confusing, time consuming and expensive are just some of the words that can be used to describe international payments. If you’re looking to save time and money when sending or receiving international money transfers, whether you are an individual or business, independent foreign exchange broker Currency Index’s new resource can help.

Brought to you by award-winning industry experts, the recently launched site www.international-payments.co.uk helps clients make international payments for the first time providing useful information sorted by currency and country, to help overseas property buyers navigate the field of foreign payments with ease.

As well as the latest market rates for most major currencies, www.International-Payments.co.uk  allows users to learn how to avoid the many pitfalls associated with overseas transfers. Sending money traditionally through banks has long been fraught with delays, high charges and poor exchange rates, but with a useful FAQ page and information on new criteria such as the European SEPA standard, first-time users will be able to see at a glance the different types of transfers that are available as well as pick up money-saving information on exchange rates and charges in the UK and abroad.

Robin Haynes, Managing Director of Currency Index comments,

“With the launch of International Payments, we are putting power back into the hands of consumers, who will be able to do their homework about an overseas payment and make sure they get good value for money instead of falling foul of uncompetitive rates and hidden charges from banks. For too long, currency transfers have been a cash cow for high street banks who rely on customers’ ignorance when it comes to the speed and cost that should be expected when making overseas payments.”

The new site also contains information on regulation in the currency industry and invites users to request a free no-obligation quote for their transfer from Currency Index by simply submitting their details at the top of the page. This will then put a user in touch with a specialist at the FSA-Authorised UK currency company who will be on hand to help with their international payments, whether regular or one-off, and large or small.

International Payments also carries a daily news blog with the latest jargon-free currency news, to help consumers understand what is affecting exchange rates – information which could save them even more money if they buy or sell their currency at the right time.

The site, which is free to use and does not require any registration or personal details is the perfect resource for those looking to make the right decisions when it comes to international payments.

For more information about the newly launched international payments resource, contact Robin at Currency Index on 0800 043 2623 or visit www.currencyindex.co.uk.

 

WiFi, a safe and guest reviews are key to renting out your Spanish holiday home

by Charlotte Ashton Spain

Spain has become a land of opportunity for property investors, according to representatives at the recent MIPIM property conference in Cannes, France which comes as good news for those who already own a holiday rental in Spain. For those who want more bookings for their property, we find out what features are key to renting out a Spanish holiday home.

España Breaks, a boutique website advertising holiday rentals all over Spain compiled data from across their portfolio in January 2012 and discovered some stand out features that help raise interest among potential guests.

In the gadget stakes, España Breaks data identified that while devices such as satellite television and games consoles increase rental interest, WiFi and internet access led the way with 19% of guests in January 2012 enquiring for properties that offered these essential features.

Meanwhile, when it comes to property size, 37% of enquires were made for properties with only one bedroom while 23% desired two. With this in mind, España Breaks identified that the majority of holidaymakers travel in groups of four people or less, and along with not wanting to pay the higher rental rates a large property can require, accounts for the lack of interest in larger properties.

Further research shows that properties with reviews from past guests gain more enquiries. Indeed, reviewed properties generated 36% more renter enquiries in January 2012. España Breaks also examined the effect on enquiries levels for un-reviewed property, revealing 40% less enquiries than average.

Finally, when it comes to creature comforts, properties with a secure safe where renters can shelter their valuables was of great importance in January’s enquiries, with 21% requesting this key feature. Taking second spot was the humble hair dryer which increased enquiry levels by 17%.

Robin Haynes, MD of award-winning foreign exchange specialists, Currency Index comments,

“Those who currently rent their Spanish property should take note of these top tips. WiFi and internet access for example are key features within a property nowadays as renters want to use their smartphones for accessing social networking sites, uploading photos or indeed checking the latest exchange rates while guest reviews make all the difference to securing future renters.

“Those who are considering buying rental property will be pleased to know that prices in the traditional favourite location of Spain have reduced significantly for British buyers in the last 6 months, due to the combined effect of a cheaper Euro, and lower local prices.”

For more information about exchange rates and buying currency, contact Robin at Currency Index on 0800 043 2623 or visit www.currencyindex.co.uk.

 

AB Property Marketing now representing award-winning FX company, Currency Index

by Charlotte Ashton United Kingdom

Getting 2012 off to a flying start, as of 1st January, leading property PR agency, AB Property Marketing (ABPM) will be representing FX specialists, Currency Index.

Adding to their ever expanding client base, ABPM is delighted to have been appointed by the OPP award-winning foreign exchange and currency service provider based in Rickmansworth.

Commenting on the appointment, Director of ABPM, Charlotte Ashton, says,

“We are thrilled to be working with Robin Haynes and the team at Currency Index. The financial considerations when purchasing a property abroad are just as important as the home itself and it is vital that buyers are aware of the process involved when buying in another currency and know where to get the best deal, especially with current volatility in the euro zone.”

Formed in 2008 by industry experts, Currency Index prides itself on providing individuals and businesses with a superior foreign exchange service and competitive exchange rates compared to what is usually offered by high street banks and other currency companies.

Trust, transparency and professionalism are at the core of Currency Index with the company becoming one of the first currency brokers to become an Authorised Payment Institution under FSA regulations in 2009. Currency Index enjoys strong partnerships within the industry, for example with TheMoveChannel.com and is called upon frequently for expert opinion on regulation in the industry.

Headed up by MD, Robin Haynes, Currency Index only employs the most experienced and knowledgeable staff to assist clients be they overseas property buyers, importers, exporters and any other company or individual looking to obtain money-saving exchange rates combined with good old fashioned service.

Robin Haynes, MD, explains,

“In a highly competitive sector such as FX it is important to shout loudly about a service as superior as ours. Working with ABPM, our aim is to educate buyers on the process of currency exchange, make them aware of any issues and ultimately ensure they get the best deal and best service possible.”

What can Currency Index offer the media?

  • Expert currency market comment from MD, Robin Haynes
  • Commentary on current euro zone situation
  • Step by step guide to buying foreign currency
  • Commentary on regulation issues within FX
  • Monthly Consumer Currency Exchange Index
  • Best Currency Buys
  • B2B / trade commentary

For more information on Currency Index please contact Charlotte Ashton at ABPM on +44 (0) 207 952 7227