Currency Transfer Service
International Money Transfers and Euro Rates
If you need to convert UK pounds, US dollars, or other currencies into euros to transfer funds for a property purchase in France, we recommend our trusted foreign exchange partners: Currencies Direct and Xe Currency.These leading specialists in international money transfers have over fifty years of combined experience and are FCA-authorised providers. They offer secure, commission-free transfers and competitive exchange rates. Whether you’re buying property in France, making regular overseas payments to Europe, or you need to repatriate euros back home, our partners provide expert guidance to help you maximise your exchange rate and avoid fees.
Discover how we can help you with your international currency transfers efficiently and securely.
Need Foreign Currency to Buy a French Property?
Are you wondering about options for securing euros for your property purchase in France? Depending on the amount and timescales involved, there are different types of options (spot contract, forward contract, limit order) for your currency requirements. International markets are, by definition, volatile, and currencies fluctuate constantly; it's not always easy to keep track of the market or know where to turn for advice.We receive daily enquiries about money transfers, primarily for euros, as well as for UK pounds, US dollars, and other foreign currencies, for property purchases, deposits, and pension payments. We are also finding that professionals and companies are becoming more savvy with their transfers, especially for overseas invoice payments.
Our Foreign Exchange Service for France
Your dedicated English-speaking account manager will work with you according to your specific schedule and keep you informed at every step. They can, for example, promptly notify the notary when your funds have been transferred to their account. You will not have to endure the frustrating automated call answering service with your bank and navigate the app on your smartphone to learn that, after all, it is not that easy to make overseas payments with a high-street bank.
Today's Exchange Rates & Daily Currency Report (18th of May 2026)
Our FX experts bring you today's updates on international markets and the euro's interbank mid-market rates. Here's a quick rundown of how global major currencies and key interest rates are performing, updated today, May 18th, at 10:23 AM London time (GMT).Pound (GBP) Under Pressure Amid Ongoing Political Uncertainty
The pound (GBP) remained subdued on Friday, with Sterling continuing to face headwinds after a challenging week for the UK currency. Persistent political uncertainty weighed on GBP exchange rates, with speculation that Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham could return to Parliament to challenge Prime Minister Keir Starmer adding to investor caution.Today, speeches from two Bank of England (BoE) policymakers could influence the pound’s performance. Any indication of further interest rate increases may offer support to Sterling. Conversely, if BoE officials highlight concerns regarding the UK’s fiscal and economic outlook, this may exacerbate market unease and place additional pressure on the currency.
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Today, the UK Pound exchange rate for £1 (GBP) = €1.14874 euros / $1.33707 USD
Euro (EUR) Lacks Direction in Data-Light Environment
The euro (EUR) traded mixed on Friday, as a scarcity of Eurozone economic data left the single currency without a clear catalyst. While the relatively safer euro held firm against higher-risk currencies, it underperformed against stronger peers, underscoring its dual role as both a defensive and risk-sensitive asset.With Eurozone data releases limited at the start of this week, the euro may continue to trade without a decisive directional bias and is likely to remain driven by broader market risk sentiment and external developments.
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Today, the Euro exchange rate for €1 (EUR) = 0.87052 GBP/ 1.16383 USD
US Dollar (USD) Holds Firm After Strong Weekly Performance
The US dollar (USD) extended its gains on Friday, as ongoing risk aversion underpinned demand for the safe-haven currency. Rising interest rate expectations also provided support, as markets increasingly priced in a Federal Reserve rate hike amid persistent inflationary pressures.Today, overall risk appetite is expected to be the primary driver of USD movement. Should market sentiment remain cautious, the dollar may strengthen further as investors seek safety. Conversely, any improvement in risk appetite could limit further upside for the ‘greenback’.
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Today, the US Dollar exchange rate for $1 (USD) = 0.85923 euros
Canadian Dollar (CAD) Supported by Elevated Oil Prices
The crude-linked Canadian dollar (CAD) held firm at the end of last week, supported by elevated oil prices. As a commodity-sensitive currency, the ‘loonie’ continued to benefit from the recent strength in the energy complex.Today, oil price dynamics will remain central to CAD performance. If crude prices sustain their upward trajectory, the Canadian dollar may see additional support, reflecting its close correlation with energy markets.
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Today, the Canadian Dollar exchange rate (CAD) = 0.62523 euros
Australian Dollar (AUD) Soft as Risk Sentiment Remains Fragile
The Australian dollar (AUD) softened at the start of this week’s session, as a risk-off tone weighed on the risk-sensitive currency. The ‘Aussie’ has since recovered part of its initial losses, highlighting its ongoing sensitivity to shifts in global risk sentiment.If risk appetite remains subdued, the AUD may continue to experience bouts of volatility and downside pressure. However, any improvement in market confidence could help stabilise the currency or enable it to recoup further ground. Investors will closely monitor geopolitical developments and key economic indicators for additional direction.
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Today, the Australian Dollar exchange rate (AUD) = 0.61512 euros
Converting to Euros Using a Smartphone
Did you know that most modern smartphones feature currency converters in their calculators? For example, the most recent iPhones and Samsung cellphones feature a built-in currency converter in their Calculator app; however, this feature varies by model and, of course, the software version. Here's how to access them on Samsung and iPhone devices:With an iPhone
- Open your calculator
- Input the amount you wish to convert
- Click on the bottom left calculator icon
- Drag it to the right to the convert mode
- Then, choose your currency to convert
With a Samsung Device
- Open the Calculator app
- Tap the three-dot menu in the top corner
- Select "Unit Converter" (or "conversions")
- Look for "Currency"
- If prompted, update the exchange rates online
Expert Advice & EUR Rates
Our award-winning property portal was featured on the UK's This is Money website. See below a few testimonials from clients who have saved money using our currency service."I secured a fantastic rate thanks to "my-french-house" and their currency transfer service. We received excellent advice and customer service when we needed to convert our currency into euros for our property purchase in France." Andy
"We have completed the final transfer of euros for my French house purchase. We received great rates and excellent service. We're delighted that we have set up repeat monthly payments to our accounts over here." Cath H.
Money-Saving Tips for International Transfers
It's smart to plan and set up your currency trading account before embarking on your property viewing trip. Doing so will demonstrate to the vendor and the estate agent that you are motivated and organised.This step becomes increasingly critical in this market, as banks are not supplying mortgages and sellers are seeking cash buyers. Vendors are wary of buyers who need to sell before they can buy; they are looking for motivated buyers who are ready to commit.
Are you using a bank for money transfers to France or Europe? Learn how you could save with our FX service compared to your high-street bank. Our currency partners offer competitive rates and fast service, delivering a high level of customer service, commission-free.
GBP/EUR Volatility in 2026 (January–May)
In the first five months of 2026, the GBP/EUR exchange rate has been notably volatile, moving by around 6.5% since the start of the year. The pound peaked at €1.225 in late February, driven by shifting expectations for Bank of England monetary policy and geopolitical developments. However, it fell to €1.142 in mid-March, as rising energy costs and political instability in the UK weighed on Sterling.In April, the GBP/EUR rate remained subdued, as UK political uncertainty (including local elections and leadership concerns) and mixed economic data (e.g., retail sales and PMI figures) kept the pound rangebound. By early May, the exchange rate stabilised slightly but remained under pressure from global risk sentiment and expectations of BoE policy.
To put this into perspective, these fluctuations could result in a difference of nearly £31,500 when purchasing a €500,000 property, underscoring how currency movements can significantly affect large transactions. This volatility highlights the importance of timing and currency risk management for international buyers and investors.
USD/EUR Volatility in 2026 (January–May)
For American citizens and investors trading in dollars, the USD/EUR exchange rate has been highly volatile in the first five months of 2026, reflecting geopolitical tensions, shifting monetary policy expectations, and energy market fluctuations. The US dollar peaked at €0.968 in January, driven by safe-haven demand amid escalating tensions in the Middle East. By early March, it had fallen to €0.875, as a changing Federal Reserve policy outlook and energy market instability weighed on the currency.In April, the USD/EUR rate fluctuated further, as optimism about a US-Iran ceasefire and mixed US economic data (e.g., GDP misses and labour market reports) reduced safe-haven demand. By early May, the exchange rate remained sensitive to developments in the Middle East, with fresh doubts over peace talks providing temporary support for the dollar.
To illustrate the impact, a €500,000 property deal could have cost approximately $516,500 at the January peak, compared with $571,500 at the March low, a $55,000 difference attributable solely to currency movements. These trends highlight the importance of timing and currency strategy for international transactions.
Negotiate a Better Deal
Having an account already set up when submitting your purchase offer can significantly increase your chances of negotiating a better deal for your dream French property.Compare and Trade Global Currencies
There may be rules and restrictions that apply based on your location, amount, and the destination of your wire transfer. At My-French-House.com, we believe you should have options to choose the service that suits your budget. Start managing your exposure with our long-standing partners at Currencies Direct, who have been awarded ‘Best Currency Broker’ in the 2024 Good Money Guide Awards.
