Rates, Service & Business Fit: OFX vs Airwallex
Check how OFX and Airwallex differ on transparency, cost, and which type of business each one is aimed at for cross-border money.
If you move money often, the comparison that matters is total cost, speed to settlement, and whether the product model fits your finance workflow.
OFX suits occasional large transfers with phone support; Airwallex suits tech-led businesses needing API and multi-currency.
Before we show you a single number, know this: we are regulated, audited, and transparent. Our pricing is published. Our client funds are segregated. These aren't marketing claims — they're regulatory requirements we meet daily.
These aren't marketing claims — they're regulatory requirements we meet daily.
Quick comparison
| Feature | OFX | Airwallex | Unicorn Currencies |
|---|---|---|---|
| Currencies | 50+ | 60+ | 35+ |
| FX / Fees | Margin above mid-market (check provider for current pricing) | 0.5–1.0% above mid-market (check provider for current pricing) | Up to 70% cheaper vs traditional US banks |
| Monthly fee | $0 | $0 (Explore) / paid tiers available | No monthly fee |
| Settlement | 1–2 business days | Same-day for most corridors | Same-Day |
| Local accounts | Limited | 20+ currencies | with a local US bank account |
| Regulation | ASIC, FCA, FinCEN | ASIC, FCA, MAS licensed | FINTRAC registered · Bank of Canada RPAA registered |
| Best for | Consumers and SMEs doing occasional large transfers | Tech-savvy businesses needing API and multi-currency infrastructure | B2B import/export, £1M++ annually |
Verdict
OFX suits occasional large transfers with phone support; Airwallex suits tech-led businesses needing API and multi-currency.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a specialist alternative for import/export businesses?
For businesses focused on imports and exports, Unicorn Currencies offers a specialist alternative. Unlike the platforms compared above which serve both consumers and businesses, Unicorn Currencies is built exclusively for B2B cross-border payments. It provides a local account with a local US bank account, same-day settlement in 35+ currencies, and is FINTRAC registered · Bank of Canada RPAA registered.
Which platform is best for businesses processing £1M+ in annual FX?
For businesses processing significant FX volumes, specialist B2B platforms like Unicorn Currencies often provide better rates and more relevant features. Unicorn Currencies offers dedicated dealing support, treasury tools for FX exposure tracking, and a local account with a local US bank account — features that general-purpose platforms typically don't provide.
Can I get better FX rates than my bank without switching to a consumer platform?
Yes. Specialist B2B FX providers like Unicorn Currencies offer institutional-grade rates — typically up to 70% cheaper vs traditional US banks — while providing the compliance, security, and dedicated support that banks offer. Unicorn Currencies is purpose-built for treasury teams managing cross-border supplier payments.
Looking for a B2B alternative to both?
Unicorn Currencies is purpose-built for importers and exporters. Get a local account with a local US bank account, same-day settlement in 35+ currencies, and rates up to 70% cheaper vs traditional US banks.
FINTRAC registered · Bank of Canada RPAA registered.