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Union Bank provides answers to frequently asked questions about foreign exchange services.
down arrow How can Union Bank's foreign exchange services help my business?
down arrow How can I prevent volatile exchange rates from reducing my company's income from foreign receivables?
down arrow What type of foreign currency products does Union Bank provide?
down arrow What is the benefit of sending a wire in a foreign currency instead of in U.S. dollars?
down arrow Can I accept domestic payments in foreign currencies?
How can Union Bank's foreign exchange services help my business?
  • Our approach is to gain an understanding of your risk tolerance and goals to develop a customized strategy for your business
  • We have experts in Foreign Exchange who can evaluate your needs
  • Based on the information from your evaluation, we work with you to develop a plan to manage international financial obligations
  • We use a variety of services and products that can help minimize foreign currency exposure, increase profits, and streamline business processes
  • Once your foreign exchange risk management plan is developed, we monitor the markets and provide ongoing information to assist you in taking advantage of opportunities, given current conditions and your goals
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How can I prevent volatile exchange rates from reducing my company's income from foreign receivables?

Numerous methods exist for protecting the U.S. dollar value of foreign-derived sales. Union Bank's foreign exchange advisors are specialists in developing hedging strategies tailored to your specific situation. Review risk management and incoming payment services, or contact a Foreign Exchange Advisor at 1-800-325-9422.

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What type of foreign currency products does Union Bank provide?

We offer spot, forward, flexible-forward (window), and option contracts for major and exotic currencies. In addition, we offer foreign currency accounts, both demand and time deposits, to help streamline your operations and optimize your assets.

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What is the benefit of sending a wire in a foreign currency instead of in U.S. dollars?

If your company is billed in a foreign currency, it is more cost-effective to send wire payments in that foreign currency. The payee will receive the exact foreign amount for a known U.S. dollar amount based on the exchange rate. In addition, if your banking relationship is with Union Bank, we can provide real-time exchange rates and lower fees for foreign currency wires, both online and through our foreign exchange desk. We provide efficient wire services for your domestic and international needs.

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Can I accept domestic payments in foreign currencies?

Yes. Union Bank has banking relationships that cover most traded currencies. When we receive incoming wires, we can either convert the funds into U.S. dollars and credit your Union Bank account or leave the funds in the foreign currency and credit the payment into a Union Bank foreign currency demand account or foreign currency time deposit. Learn more about our foreign currency accounts.

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There can be substantial risks and volatility involved in investing in foreign currency markets, including the possible loss of principal.  These risks are the sole responsibility of the customer. The Bank is not responsible for such losses, and FDIC insurance does not cover losses associated with such risks.  Foreign currency products may not be suitable for risk averse business entities.  You should purchase foreign currency products only upon your own independent determination that such products are appropriate for you based on your transaction objectives and risk tolerance, and after consulting with qualified advisors as you deem appropriate.  For more information about the risks of transacting in foreign currencies, request a copy of All About Business Accounts & Services disclosure and agreement.

The information provided by our foreign exchange staff is for informational purposes only based on sources that we believe to be accurate and reliable. This information should neither be considered an investment recommendation or advice, nor an assurance or guarantee of future exchange rate movements or trends.

Foreign currency demand accounts and foreign currency time deposits offered by Union Bank of California, N.A. are FDIC insured within permissible limits.  Other foreign currency products offered by Union Bank of California, N.A., such as forward contracts, are neither bank deposits nor FDIC insured.

© 2008 Union Bank of California, N.A. All rights reserved. Member FDIC.
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Call 1-800-325-9422 to speak with a foreign exchange advisor

 
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