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Hedging currency risk Hedging exchange rate risk Hedging currency risk Hedging foreign currency risk

Hedging currency risk: protection against exchange rate fluctuations and more planning security

Currency risks affect anyone who invests internationally or conducts business abroad. These risks can have a significant impact on returns due to exchange rate fluctuations. One Well thought-out currency hedging can help you keep your assets more stable. In this article, you will find out when and how hedging is worthwhile and which methods work best.

Table of contents

What is currency risk and why is it important?

The Currency risk refers to the risk of losses caused by Exchange rate fluctuations arise when you invest in foreign currencies. As exchange rates are constantly changing, the value of your assets can fluctuate - even if the underlying values do not change. For many investors, but also for SMEs linked to international markets, for example Currency hedging This is crucial for making profits predictable and minimising risks.

Types of currency risks: a brief overview

There are three main types of currency risk:

  • Transaction risk: Arises from the settlement of transactions in foreign currencies.
  • Translation risk: Occurs when foreign assets have to be converted.
  • Economic risk: Currency fluctuations can impair competitiveness and affect the market value of your investments.

How currency fluctuations can affect your returns

Exchange rate fluctuations are often unpredictable and can reduce your returns. For example, a weak USD against the Swiss franc This means that investments in US equities are worth less. On the contrary, a strong foreign currency can increase your return. It therefore makes sense for many investors to Exchange rate risk and to think about possible safeguards.

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The most important methods for hedging currency risk

There are various hedging strategies:

  • Forward exchange transactions (forwards): The price is set for a future date, which provides planning security.
  • FX forward and options: These financial instruments offer flexibility to manage the exchange rate risk.
  • Foreign currency investments: Often a popular way for private investors to protect themselves against Foreign currency risks secure.

Is hedging right for private investors?

For private investors, currency hedging can make sense, but the Costs an important factor. Hedging reduces the risk, but often also reduces potential returns. The decision depends on your Risk tolerance and the size of your portfolio. If you have high assets in foreign currencies a hedge can make perfect sense.

What is a forward exchange transaction and how does it work?

Forward exchange transaction allows you to convert currencies to a set course to buy or sell at a certain point in time. This protects you against possible exchange rate changes. The interest rate difference between the two currencies and the current spot rate play a role here. Companies often use forward exchange transactions to protect their Invoicing and stabilise payments.

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For companies: The role of the costing base and margin

A good basis for calculation helps, Exchange rate changes and their influence on the Margin reduce the risk of losses. With a targeted currency strategy, companies can optimise their cash flows and reduce the Competition risk lower. This avoids unexpected losses and ensures a secure value in the Home currency secured.

SME case study: Hedging exchange rate fluctuations in practice

Many SMEs use Forward exchange transactions for long-term planning. A company that buys in USD could use FX forwards, for example, to hedge against the EUR exchange rate. This creates a stable basis for pricing and minimises the risk of currency fluctuations.

Investor case study: Hedging currency risk for Swiss private investors

  • Situation: A Swiss private investor has invested a considerable portion of his portfolio in US dollar (USD) based shares. Due to the Exchange rate changes between USD and CHF he is concerned about possible losses if the USD depreciates sharply.
  • Target: The investor would like to Reduce currency riskto achieve a certain stability in his portfolio without selling US equities.
  • Solution: The investor decides in favour of the Hedging through forward exchange transactions (FX forwards). This allows him to exchange USD for CHF at a fixed rate, which gives him Planning security if the dollar depreciates.
  • Result: Through the forward transaction, the investor receives a fixed exchange ratewhich cushions potential losses in the event of a depreciation of the USD. This means that investors can continue to monitor the performance of their US equities with peace of mind and at the same time benefit from a certain degree of protection against exchange rate fluctuations.
  • These Strategy shows how foreign exchange transactions can provide valuable hedging for international assets. Especially when, as in this case, a significant proportion of the capital is invested in a foreign currency Hedging creates more stability and minimises the risk of abrupt losses in value in the portfolio.

What are the costs of currency hedging?

Currency hedging is generally not free of charge. Costs are incurred through Premiums and Surcharges depending on volatility and interest rate differences. In addition, the fees for the Processing depending on Currency pair differ. It is therefore important to analyse the costs and ensure that the benefits outweigh the costs.

Another way to reduce the currency risk is to reduce the currency risk, Investments in various foreign currenciescurrencies. Instead of investing in just one foreign currency such as the US dollar, the investor can also buy shares in euros, pounds sterling or other stable currencies, for example. This diversification reduces the risk of a single currency fluctuation having a major impact on the entire portfolio. Through the distribution across different Currency pairs This allows the exposure to individual currencies to be reduced, which can lead to a more stable performance.

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Conclusion on the topic of currency risk hedging

Currency hedging offers stability, but can also reduce potential profits. SMES and Private investors with a high foreign currency exposure can benefit, as they can hedge Plan better and minimise risks. Especially with highly competitive markets this can be decisive. However, the costs should be considered and alternatives reviewed.

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