Fixed Exchange Rates: Lock Your Rate for 48h | CurrencyFair

Written by CurrencyFair | Feb 19, 2026

Planning a move from sunny Australia to the historic UK, or simply sending support to family abroad? At CurrencyFair, we know that while the destination is exciting, the logistics of moving money can feel like a bit of a hurdle.

When making international payments, the exchange rate is the heart of the transaction. Even small market fluctuations can leave you wondering exactly how much will land in your recipient's account. Our 48-hour fixed exchange rate is a tool designed to give you total certainty and peace of mind.

What is a Fixed Exchange Rate?

Definition: A fixed exchange rate is a feature that allows a customer to lock in a specific currency price for a set period (in this case, 48 hours), protecting the transaction from market volatility while funds are being transferred.

When you toggle the fixed rate option on, you hit the "pause" button on the volatile currency market. Whether the rate dips or dives in the following two days, the price you saw when you booked is the price you get.

 

Key Benefits of Using Fixed Rates in 2026

 

Feature

Without Fixed Rate

With CurrencyFair Fixed Rate

Price Certainty

Rate fluctuates until the moment of exchange.

Rate is guaranteed for 48 business hours.

Budget Accuracy

Hard to predict final "to-the-cent" totals.

Know exactly how much will be received.

Stress Level

High—requires constant "rate watching."

Low—set it, send it, and forget it.

Market Protection

Vulnerable to sudden economic drops.

Shielded from 48 hours of market shifts.

How to Secure Your Rate (Step-by-Step)

For big life moments like buying property overseas or paying tuition, follow these simple steps to ensure your rate stays locked:

  1. Select Your Currency Pair: Choose from our 20+ available currencies.
  2. Toggle Fixed Rate "On": This activates your 48-hour price guarantee.
  3. Transfer Your Funds: Instruct your bank to send your money to CurrencyFair immediately.
  4. Track Your Transfer: Use the CurrencyFair app (available on iOS and Android) to see when your funds land and the transfer completes.

The "Safety Net" for Your Peace of Mind

We understand that banks don't always move as fast as you do. To make the process manageable and supportive:

  • Weekends are Excluded: If you book a rate on Friday, it remains fixed until Tuesday. We don't count Saturdays and Sundays, giving your bank time to process the transfer.
  • The 3% Protection Rule: In the rare event of extreme market volatility (a move of 3% or more), we protect you by cancelling the transaction. We’ll notify you by email so you can re-instruct at the best possible current rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are fixed rates available for all currencies?

Fixed rates are available for most major currency pairs, with the current exceptions of MXN, VND, and KRW.

What happens if my money arrives after the 48-hour window?

If your funds arrive late, we will exchange your money at the best available rate at that moment, provided the rate hasn't dropped by more than 3% from your original quote.

Is there a fee to use the fixed rate feature?

No, theres no additional fee for fixing the rate

Ready to take the uncertainty out of your next transfer?

 Log in to see how much you could save with a locked-in rate today. Don't have an account with us yet, you can sign up below.

 

 
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