How Double Conversion (Client Currency → USD → INR) Eats into Your Payments

It’s a borderless world today, and it’s never been easier to work with international clients, remote-collaborate, or receive support from loved ones overseas. But if you’ve ever had an international payment made directly into your bank account, you may have experienced a frustrating trend: the amount you ultimately receive is usually significantly less than what […]
Do Freelancers Need an Import Export Code (IEC) to Receive International Payments?

In an increasingly global economy, Indian freelancers are finding clients across borders with growing ease. Whether you’re a web developer working with clients in Canada, a consultant serving startups in Europe, or a writer delivering content to firms in Australia—cross-border income is now a natural part of freelance work. But a recurring question remains: Do […]
How Currency Conversion Fees Differ by Payment Method (Bank, Stripe, PayPal, etc.)

International trade and global commerce are the pillars of the globalized world today. Whether you are a small company receiving imports, a freelancer being paid by foreign clients, or an individual remitting money abroad to family, handling various currencies is unavoidable. But one essential component usually taken for granted in such transactions is the currency […]
Understanding FX Spread: The Hidden Cost Behind Currency Conversion

Have you ever sent money abroad or paid for something in another country only to find less money arrived than you expected? Or maybe an international payment took longer than a local one? This common frustration often points to a secret cost: the FX spread. The global money market is enormous. About $7.5 trillion moves […]
What Are Intermediary Banks, and Why Do They Eat into Your Payments?

Have you ever sent money across borders, only to find the recipient received less than expected? Or wondered why an international transfer sometimes takes longer than a local one? The answer often lies with intermediary banks—the unseen middlemen working behind the scenes of global financial transactions. These banks play a crucial role in moving money […]
Delay in Bank Realisation Certificate (BRC) – What to Do!

It’s crucial for Indian exporters to secure the Electronic Bank Realisation Certificate (E-BRC) as proof of payment from overseas buyers, which is essential for claiming export incentives and GST refunds. Delays in obtaining E-BRCs can significantly impact an exporter’s operations. This blog provides a comprehensive overview of common issues causing E-BRC delays and offers practical […]
How to Fix SWIFT Code Mismatch Errors

Working with international money transfers can be complicated. You might have issues sending or receiving money from abroad. This issue often occurs due to something called a SWIFT code mismatch error. Such errors can lead to longer waits, make you spend extra money, and be very frustrating. This guide will make it easy to learn […]
Managing International Trade: The Crucial Role of a Custom House Agent (CHA)

Global trade is central to the development of a nation. However, for most exporters, particularly newcomers to international trade, dealing with customs procedures and regulations can be extremely difficult. A Custom House Agent (CHA) or Customs Broker comes in handy at this point. What is a Custom House Agent (CHA) or Customs Broker? A CHA […]
TCS on Foreign Payments: An Essential Guide

The Indian government introduced Tax Collected at Source (TCS) on money sent abroad under the Income Tax Act, 1961. The main goal is to track funds leaving the country. It also helps reduce tax evasion on spending overseas. TCS is not an extra fee you lose. It acts like an advance tax. Your bank or […]
Understanding Nostro and Vostro Accounts in International Banking

When we talk about international banking, the terms Nostro and Vostro accounts might not be familiar to everyday customers. However, they play a key part in making cross-border money transfers work smoothly. These two terms – which come from Latin – actually refer to the same bank account, but seen from the viewpoint of two […]
Skydo Review: Understanding Fees and Exploring Alternatives

For Indian freelancers, consultants, and small businesses, successfully landing global clients is just one part of the equation. The subsequent process of receiving funds from abroad often introduces layers of complexity, including excessive fees, unfavorable exchange rates, and tedious compliance procedures. Identifying a payment platform that genuinely streamlines this process is not merely convenient—it’s essential […]
A Simple Guide to GST Refund Process for Exporters

If you’re an exporter in India, you’ve probably heard that you can get back the Goods and Services Tax (GST) you paid on the goods or services you sell abroad. This is because exports are treated as “zero-rated supplies” under GST. This means no GST is charged on the final export, but you can claim […]