Buy And Sell Currency Rates -
: The price at which the bank sells foreign currency to you. This is the rate you pay when you need foreign cash for an upcoming trip.
: The gap between these two rates. A narrower spread generally indicates a more competitive deal. How to Read the Board buy and sell currency rates
Understanding buy and sell currency rates is essential for travelers and traders to ensure they get the best value. The "Golden Rule" is that ; the difference between them, known as the spread , represents the profit margin for the exchange provider. Core Definitions : The price at which the bank sells foreign currency to you
: The price at which a bank or money changer buys foreign currency from you. If you have leftover foreign money from a trip, this is the rate you use to get your local currency back. A narrower spread generally indicates a more competitive
: This is what you receive. It is the lower number. If you are bringing USD back to exchange it for your home currency, look here. Live Major Market Rates (April 28, 2026)
: This is what you pay. It is the higher number. If you want to buy USD with your local currency, look here.
When looking at an exchange board, providers often use the perspective of "We" (the institution):