Exchange rates determine how much money your family receives
Understanding how they work empowers you to make smarter decisions and get more value from every transfer.
1. What Is an Exchange Rate?
An exchange rate is the value of one currency compared to another.
Example:
£1
British Pound
30 SLE
Sierra Leone Leones
This means: For every £1 you send, your recipient gets 30 Sierra Leone Leones (approximately, rates vary daily).
💡 Simple rule: A higher exchange rate = more money for your family. Always look for the best rate!
2. Why Exchange Rates Change
Exchange rates fluctuate constantly based on global economic factors:
Inflation
When prices rise in a country, its currency value typically decreases relative to others. Higher inflation = weaker currency.
Global Markets
International trade, investments, and economic news affect currency demand and supply, causing rates to rise or fall.
Government Policy
Central banks set interest rates and monetary policies that influence currency strength and exchange rates.
Supply and Demand
If more people want to buy British Pounds with Leones, the Pound becomes more valuable (and vice versa).
📊 Key takeaway: Exchange rates change daily (sometimes hourly) based on these factors. That's why checking live rates before sending money is important.
3. How Companies Make Money from Exchange Rates
⚠️ Many providers hide their profit in the exchange rate
They advertise "low fees" but secretly reduce the exchange rate to make hidden profit.
How the Trick Works:
Real Market Rate:
£1 = 31 SLE
(The actual mid-market exchange rate)
What Some Providers Offer You:
£1 = 27 SLE
(They keep the 4 SLE difference as hidden profit)
💸 On a £100 transfer, this 4 SLE difference costs you:
400 SLE (about £13)
That's £13 taken from your family without you realizing it!
🚨 This is why a "no fee" or "low fee" service can still be expensive if they give you a poor exchange rate.
SendHome offers live, transparent rates
We show you the real market-aligned rate updated constantly. No hidden margins.
Check live GBP → SLE rates now →4. How to Get the Best Exchange Rate
Check Live Rates Before Sending
Always compare the rate offered to the real market rate. Use transparent platforms that show live, updated rates.
Avoid Banks for International Transfers
Banks typically offer the worst exchange rates with 3-5% markup. Digital platforms are far more competitive.
Be Skeptical of "Today Only" Special Offers
Pressure tactics are a red flag. Legitimate services offer consistently competitive rates, not artificial urgency.
Use Fast Mobile-Money Platforms
Digital services like SendHome offer better rates because they have lower overhead costs than traditional banks and cash transfer shops.
💡 Pro Tip: Calculate the Total Recipient Amount
Don't just look at fees or rates separately. Calculate:
Amount You Send - Fees × Exchange Rate = Amount Family Receives
The provider that delivers the most money to your recipient is the best choice, regardless of how they split fees and rates.
Understanding Makes a Difference
By understanding how exchange rates work, you can:
Save money on every transfer
Spot hidden fees and poor rates
Make informed decisions
Compare providers accurately
Maximize value for your family
Every extra Leone helps
Avoid scams
Recognize unrealistic promises
💚 Knowledge is power — use it to get the best value for your family
Check Live GBP → SLE Rates Now
See exactly how much your family will receive with SendHome's transparent, market-aligned rates.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Exchange Rates
What is an exchange rate and why does it matter?
An exchange rate is the value of one currency compared to another (e.g., £1 = 30 SLE). It matters because it determines how many Sierra Leone Leones your family receives for each British Pound you send. A higher rate means more money for your family.
Why do exchange rates change constantly?
Exchange rates fluctuate based on: inflation rates in each country, global market conditions and trade, government monetary policies and interest rates, and supply/demand for each currency. These factors cause rates to change daily or even hourly.
How do companies hide profit in exchange rates?
Many providers advertise low fees but secretly reduce the exchange rate below the real market rate. For example, if the real rate is £1 = 31 SLE, they might offer you 27 SLE and keep the 4 SLE difference as hidden profit. On a £100 transfer, this costs you about £13.
How can I get the best exchange rate for Sierra Leone?
To get the best rate: (1) Check live rates and compare to real market rates, (2) Avoid banks which typically have 3-5% markup, (3) Use transparent digital platforms like SendHome with market-aligned rates, (4) Calculate the total amount your recipient receives, not just the fee.