Euro Currency 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 efficiently and securely with your international currency transfers.
Do You Need Euros for a Purchase in France?
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 contracts, forward contracts, limit orders) to meet 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 at 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 Euro Rates & Daily Currency News (21st August 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, last updated on August 21st at 11:08 AM London time (GMT).Pound Sterling (GBP) Supported By Improved Consumer Confidence
The pound (GBP) strengthened against most major currencies yesterday, supported by signs of improving UK consumer confidence. This improvement suggests that households may be feeling more positive about the economic outlook, which helped lift Sterling.However, the pound’s gains were limited by a rise in UK government borrowing costs, as bond yields moved higher again after falling earlier in the week. This created some caution among investors.
Today, weaker UK retail sales have placed the pound under pressure at the start of the session. If the latest UK Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) figures also disappoint, Sterling could face further losses. For buyers converting pounds into euros for a property purchase in France, this may be an important time to monitor exchange rates closely.
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Today, the UK Pound exchange rate for £1 (GBP) = €1.16710 euros / $1.36586 USD
Euro (EUR) Weighed Down By Energy Price Concerns
The euro (EUR) struggled to make clear progress yesterday, with no major Eurozone economic data available to guide the market. Sentiment towards the single currency was also affected by renewed concerns about higher energy prices and their potential impact on European industry.Today, attention will turn to the latest Eurozone PMI figures. If the data show that private-sector activity remains strong, the euro could receive support. For French property buyers holding euros, a firmer euro may help provide more stability when comparing international currencies.
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Today, the Euro exchange rate for €1 (EUR) = 0.85681 GBP/ 1.17030 USD
US Dollar (USD) Falls As US Debt Reaches $40 Trillion
The US dollar (USD) remained under pressure on Thursday, with exchange rates falling to fresh multi-month lows. Investors reacted cautiously after reports showed that US national debt has reached $40 trillion for the first time, raising concerns about long-term public finances.Later today, the latest US PMI figures may offer some support to the dollar if they show that the American private sector remains resilient. Stronger-than-expected data could help the US dollar recover some ground.
For buyers transferring US dollars into euros for a French property purchase, recent dollar weakness may affect the final amount received in euros, making timing and exchange-rate guidance particularly important.
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Today, the US Dollar exchange rate for $1 (USD) = 0.85448 euros
Canadian Dollar (CAD) Supported By Higher Oil Prices
The Canadian dollar (CAD) moved higher yesterday, helped by a continued rise in global oil prices. As Canada is a major energy producer, the Canadian dollar often benefits when oil prices strengthen.Today, Canada’s latest retail sales figures could influence the currency’s direction. Economists expect sales growth to slow sharply, which may signal weaker consumer demand and put some pressure on the Canadian dollar.
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Today, the Canadian Dollar exchange rate (CAD) = 0.62162 euros
Australian Dollar (AUD) Strengthens In Positive Market Conditions
The Australian dollar (AUD) gained ground overnight, supported by weaker demand for the US dollar and improved investor confidence. As the Australian dollar is often linked to wider market sentiment, it benefited from the more positive trading environment.If this positive mood continues, the Australian dollar may extend its gains. However, any decline in global confidence could limit further progress.
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Today, the Australian Dollar exchange rate (AUD) = 0.61195 euros
Planning Your Property Purchase
Whatever your starting currency, careful planning is essential when buying a home in France and converting into euros. Following major economic updates, political developments, and central bank decisions can help you choose an appropriate time to secure your exchange rate. Working with a specialist can also help you protect your budget, manage risk, and avoid unpleasant surprises between agreeing on a price and completing your purchase.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 FX 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 an old-fashioned 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, regardless of your currency and time zone.
Currency Trends Update: January–July 2026
GBP/EUR Strength in 2026 (January–July)
In the first seven months of 2026, the GBP/EUR exchange rate has shown resilience and has generally increased, rising about 4.8% since January. The pound reached a peak of €1.238 in late June, driven by better-than-expected UK economic results, proactive fiscal policies under Prime Minister Andy Burnham, and a stabilising political climate. The lowest point of €1.135 in early January reflected brief uncertainty, but the currency has since recovered strongly due to positive domestic developments.Andy Burnham’s appointment as Prime Minister has been a major factor in Sterling’s strength. His focus on fiscal responsibility, along with Chancellor John Healey’s commitment to fiscal rules, has boosted investor confidence in the UK economy. Moreover, stronger-than-expected UK GDP growth, healthy retail sales, and improving PMI figures have supported the pound, indicating economic resilience despite global issues.
By early July, the GBP/EUR rate stayed above €1.21, buoyed by optimism about the government’s pro-growth policies and the Bank of England’s (BoE) cautious, data-driven monetary approach. The BoE’s careful stance has helped manage market expectations and decreased volatility.
For comparison, these positive changes could save nearly £24,000 when buying a €500,000 property, compared to the lowest rates earlier in the year. This stability and strength in the pound demonstrate the advantages of a timely currency strategy for international buyers and investors.
USD/EUR Stability in 2026 (January–July)
For American buyers and investors dealing in dollars, the USD/EUR exchange rate remained relatively stable during the first seven months of 2026. This stability resulted from a balanced mix of geopolitical developments, clear monetary policies, and energy market conditions. The US dollar reached a high of €0.975 in late January, driven by safe-haven buying amid tensions in the Middle East. As diplomatic efforts advanced and energy markets stabilised, the USD value dropped to €0.910 by July, strengthened by solid US economic data.In April and May, the USD/EUR rate rose amid optimism about a US-Iran ceasefire and positive US economic indicators, including strong GDP growth and a resilient labour market. By early July, the rate remained supported by ongoing safe-haven demand and expectations of a cautious Federal Reserve policy.
For example, a €500,000 property purchase that would have cost around $513,000 at the January peak now costs about $549,000. This shift represents a $36,000 reduction for USD buyers, thanks to dollar stabilisation and euro strength. These trends highlight the importance of timing and currency strategy in cross-border deals, with current conditions favouring USD holders looking to invest in Europe.
Key Takeaways for 2026 (January–July)
- GBP/EUR: Strength driven by UK political stability, fiscal prudence, and strong economic data. The pound has benefited from Burnham’s pro-growth policies and the BoE’s balanced approach, leading to reduced volatility and improved investor confidence.
- USD/EUR: Stability supported by geopolitical progress, strong US economic performance, and Fed policy clarity. The dollar has found a balanced footing, aiding USD investors in European markets.
- Impact on Transactions: Currency movements have favoured buyers in recent months, with GBP strength reducing costs for UK investors abroad and USD stability benefiting American buyers in Europe.
Investors and businesses should take advantage of the current favourable conditions while staying alert to central bank policies, geopolitical changes, and economic indicators to improve currency strategies in 2026.
