Exchange Rate Spreads — Mid-Market vs What You Pay

Published May 1, 2026

Mid-market rates (often published by central banks) sit between the bid and ask in wholesale FX. Retail rates you get at a kiosk, airport, or card processor include spread + fees to cover risk and operations.

Why your bank is “worse” than Google

Google shows indicative mid quotes. Banks buy high and sell low around that mid — the difference is their revenue.

Practical workflow

Use our Currency Converter for relative moves between two currencies.
Compare your provider’s all-in cost (rate + flat fee) for the amount you actually send.

Compliance note

Never rely on a free web rate for tax, legal, or audit filings unless your authority accepts that source and timestamp.

Why your bank is “worse” than Google

Google shows indicative mid quotes. Banks buy high and sell low around that mid — the difference is their revenue.

Practical workflow

Use our Currency Converter for relative moves between two currencies.
Compare your provider’s all-in cost (rate + flat fee) for the amount you actually send.

Compliance note

Never rely on a free web rate for tax, legal, or audit filings unless your authority accepts that source and timestamp.