What is the mid-market exchange rate?

The mid-market rate is the midpoint between the buy and sell prices of two currencies on the global market — the “real” rate you see on Google or Reuters, before any margin. Transparent neobanks convert at or near this rate on weekdays and disclose any markup; traditional banks typically bury a margin in a worse rate.

Are neobank FX fees cheaper than a traditional bank?

Usually, yes. Many European neobanks convert at the mid-market rate up to a monthly free allowance, then charge a small percentage fee (often 0.5%–1%) and may add a weekend markup. Traditional banks more often apply a 2%–3% margin baked into the rate. Always check the free allowance and the weekend surcharge for your plan.

How long does an international transfer take from a neobank?

Within the EU, SEPA transfers settle in one business day and SEPA Instant in seconds. Currency conversions and non-SEPA transfers depend on the corridor and can take from minutes to a few business days, depending on the provider and destination.

Is the money I convert or hold in these accounts protected?

It depends on the provider’s licence, not the action. Balances at a full-banking-licence neobank are covered by the Deposit Guarantee Scheme up to €100,000; balances at an e-money provider are safeguarded in segregated accounts but not DGS-insured. Each guide flags the distinction for the provider involved.

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How-to guides — currency actions from Europe

132 independent guides. One per verb × currency combination.

Each guide covers one currency action (buy, sell, send, receive, exchange, convert, save, invest, lend, borrow, hedge, withdraw) from a European neobank base account. The mid-market FX rate, transparent fees, settlement times, and the DGS/FSCS/safeguarding distinction are detailed on every page. No sponsored placements.

Send

Receive

Convert

Exchange

Buy

Sell

Save

Invest

Hedge

Lend

Borrow

Withdraw

Currency actions: common questions

What is the mid-market exchange rate?: The mid-market rate is the midpoint between the buy and sell prices of two currencies on the global market — the “real” rate you see on Google or Reuters, before any margin. Transparent neobanks convert at or near this rate on weekdays and disclose any markup; traditional banks typically bury a margin in a worse rate.
Are neobank FX fees cheaper than a traditional bank?: Usually, yes. Many European neobanks convert at the mid-market rate up to a monthly free allowance, then charge a small percentage fee (often 0.5%–1%) and may add a weekend markup. Traditional banks more often apply a 2%–3% margin baked into the rate. Always check the free allowance and the weekend surcharge for your plan.
How long does an international transfer take from a neobank?: Within the EU, SEPA transfers settle in one business day and SEPA Instant in seconds. Currency conversions and non-SEPA transfers depend on the corridor and can take from minutes to a few business days, depending on the provider and destination.
Is the money I convert or hold in these accounts protected?: It depends on the provider’s licence, not the action. Balances at a full-banking-licence neobank are covered by the Deposit Guarantee Scheme up to €100,000; balances at an e-money provider are safeguarded in segregated accounts but not DGS-insured. Each guide flags the distinction for the provider involved.