Travelex Research Reveals Increase in International Trade Volumes and Payments Activity

WASHINGTON, June 14 /PRNewswire/ -- Businesses globally have seen a slight increase in international trade volumes over the past year, indicating that companies may expect a simultaneous boost in international payments activity. Travelex Global Business Payments' research, conducted by Treasury & Risk magazine, released today revealed that senior finance executives found more than 25% of their total monthly payments are international payments.

Interestingly, while 65% of respondents categorized themselves as U.S. or North American businesses, 72% of respondents reported making and receiving international payments.  Further, 81% noted that they saw differences in their clients' payment needs from region to region.  When asked about the top three factors to ensuring a company's stability in doing business in other regions, respondents cited an increase in overall business volumes, the ability to manage international payment risks, and implementation of a risk management strategy in order of importance.  

"The one-size-fits-all approach to payments is a thing of the past.  Decision makers in growing businesses recognize the need for innovative solutions that help them better manage their payment process, achieving increased visibility and predictability throughout the process," said David Sear, Divisional Managing Director of Travelex Global Business Payments.  "These findings underscore the impact that today's globalization is having on how companies do business and manage their payments around the world."

The Travelex Global Business Payments study also uncovered payment challenges that still exist for domestic and international businesses, alike.  Over one quarter (26%) of respondents cite delayed confirmation of payments and/or receivables as the number one pain point when making or receiving international payments.  One in five (20%) cited lack of visibility on international payments and receipts, followed by being unprepared for exposure to currency fluctuations (15%).    

Sear added, "This research shows that there is still work to be done to help global corporations create and implement payment solutions that are truly tailored for their business.  At Travelex, we are committed to helping companies implement effective and scalable global payment solutions that can meet their needs as their business grows."

Research findings are available to members of the press for review. To request the findings, or

to arrange an interview with Mr. Sear, please contact Kristen Lewko at +1-212-850-5756 or [email protected].

Methodology

The research study was conducted by Treasury & Risk magazine in February 2010. The sample size included more than 700 senior level finance decision makers, representing both U.S. and international companies with annual revenues over $500 million.

About Travelex Global Business Payments

Travelex is a global foreign exchange specialist providing the payment and receipt of domestic and international funds for businesses of all sizes.  For more than 30 years, Travelex has provided clients with sophisticated market knowledge, leading edge technologies and practical and innovative solutions tailored to individual requirements.

Every year, Travelex processes payments around the world for over 35,000 businesses to one million beneficiaries.

For more information, visit www.travelexbusiness.com/na.  In the United States, services are provided by Travelex Global Business Payments, Inc. or Travelex Currency Services, Inc.  In Canada, services are provided by Travelex Canada Limited.

SOURCE Travelex Global Business Payments