Paystand vs Wise — Pricing, Fees & B2B Features Compared (2026)

Most comparison pages are written by one of the companies being compared. We publish this because we believe you deserve honest information — even when it favours our competitors.

We also show where both fall short for importers and exporters — and where we've built something different.

Quick Verdict

Paystand focuses on B2B payment network; Wise on international transfers.

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.

Regulated by
Bank of Canada
PSP under RPAA
Registered with
FINTRAC
MSB: C100000159
Client funds held in
Segregated Tier-1 accounts
Never co-mingled
Published pricing
0.5% spread + £5
No hidden markups. Ever.

These aren't marketing claims — they're regulatory requirements we meet daily.

Quick comparison

FeaturePaystandWiseUnicorn Currencies
CurrenciesMulti-currency40+35+
FX / FeesCheck provider for current pricingMid-market rate + 0.33–0.57% feeUp to 70% cheaper vs traditional US banks
Monthly feeSaaS pricing$0 (one-time setup fee may apply)No monthly fee
SettlementVaries1–2 business daysSame-Day
Local accountsLimited9 currencieswith a local US bank account
RegulationUSFCA authorised, FinCEN registeredFINTRAC registered · Bank of Canada RPAA registered
Best forB2B payments and receivables automationFreelancers and SMEs wanting transparent mid-market ratesB2B import/export, £1M++ annually

Verdict

Paystand focuses on B2B payment network; Wise on international transfers.

Frequently asked questions

Is there a specialist for import/export with local accounts?

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.