Wire Transfer True Cost Calculator

Compare banks vs fintech to expose hidden exchange rate markups (spreads).

Transfer Details

Better Option
Fintech App
Recipient gets +49.80 more

Provider A

Offered Rate:0.8878
True Cost of Spread:35.00
Total Real Cost (Fee + Spread):60.00
Final Recipient Amount:865.61
You lose 6.0% of your money to fees

Provider B

Offered Rate:0.9200
True Cost of Spread:0.00
Total Real Cost (Fee + Spread):5.00
Final Recipient Amount:915.40
You lose 0.5% of your money to fees

International Wire Transfer True Cost Calculator

Calculate the true cost of international wire transfers by analyzing exchange rate markups and hidden bank fees.

The Hidden Costs of Sending Money Abroad

When transferring money internationally, banks often advertise "Zero Fees" while hiding the true cost in poor exchange rates. This practice is known as an exchange rate markup or spread.

How the True Cost is Calculated

  • Flat Fees: The upfront fee charged by the sender or receiver bank (e.g., $15 outgoing wire fee).
  • Exchange Rate Spread: The difference between the mid-market rate (the real exchange rate) and the rate offered by the provider.
  • Total True Cost = Flat Fees + (Spread % × Transfer Amount)

Bank vs Fintech Comparison

Traditional banks typically charge a flat fee plus a markup of 3-6% on the exchange rate. Modern fintech services (like Wise or Revolut) often charge no exchange rate markup, using instead a transparent, slightly higher upfront flat fee. Our calculator helps you compare these models to find the cheapest route for your specific transfer amount.

Frequently Asked Questions