Wise vs HSBC — Pricing, Fees & B2B Features Compared (2026)
HSBC charges international wire fees of £4–£30 plus an FX markup that typically ranges from 1.5–3.5% above mid-market, depending on your banking tier and relationship. Wise charges 0.33–0.57% at the real mid-market rate with no wire fees. On a £100,000 supplier payment, HSBC's hidden spread could cost £1,500–£3,500; the same payment through Wise costs £330–£570. HSBC offers relationship banking, trade finance products, and letters of credit that Wise doesn't. But for straightforward international transfers, the pricing gap is enormous.
Wise typically offers better FX rates and faster settlement; HSBC offers full banking relationship and trade finance.
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 | Wise | HSBC | Unicorn Currencies |
|---|---|---|---|
| Currencies | 40+ | Multiple | 35+ |
| FX / Fees | Mid-market rate + 0.33–0.57% fee | Typically 2–4% above mid-market for FX (check with bank) | Up to 70% cheaper vs traditional US banks |
| Monthly fee | $0 (one-time setup fee may apply) | Account and service fees apply | No monthly fee |
| Settlement | 1–2 business days | 2–5 business days (SWIFT) | Same-Day |
| Local accounts | 9 currencies | Yes (via branch network) | with a local US bank account |
| Regulation | FCA authorised, FinCEN registered | FCA, global banking licences | FINTRAC registered · Bank of Canada RPAA registered |
| Best for | Freelancers and SMEs wanting transparent mid-market rates | Businesses with existing HSBC relationship and complex banking needs | B2B import/export, £1M++ annually |
Verdict
Wise typically offers better FX rates and faster settlement; HSBC offers full banking relationship and trade finance.
Frequently asked questions
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 than high-street banks — while providing the compliance, security, and dedicated support that banks offer. Unlike consumer platforms, Unicorn Currencies is purpose-built for treasury teams managing cross-border supplier payments.
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.