I move money in different currencies few times a year — renovation costs on my family's place, contractor payments, transfers back and forth as the project moves along.
For years I just used my bank. Never thought twice about it. Then I actually compared the exchange rate my bank gave me against the real mid-market rate — and realized the "no fee" wire wasn't free at all. The markup was the fee, just hidden.
Switched to Wise. You see the real rate, the fee upfront, no surprises on the other end. Money usually lands same day or next.
If you're sending money anywhere internationally — Family abroad, paying overseas contractors — worth a look:
ps. You get to send $800 for free, and I'll get a small thank you fee.