With growing global connectedness and digitisation extending over geographical borders, South Africans are presented with numerous investment opportunities beyond our borders. One such avenue is investing in foreign currencies, which can offer potential benefits, such as diversification, hedging against local economic risks, and promising returns. However, like any investment, investing in foreign currencies requires careful consideration, in-depth research and advice, and comprehensive understanding of the associated risks. In this article we will explore the factors to consider and the steps to take when investing in foreign currency as a South African.

Understanding foreign currency investing
Investing in foreign currency means buying and obtaining currencies, other than the South African rand (ZAR), with the intention of capitalising on exchange rate movements. This type of investment can be facilitated through various methods, including forex trading, currency exchange-traded funds, or foreign currency accounts.

Before you start, do thorough research and analyse the currency in which you wish to invest. Factors to consider include economic indicators, monetary policies, trade balances, and geopolitical risks. Stay updated on market trends, leverage technical analysis tools, and consult reputable sources or financial advisers to make informed investment decisions. Factors to consider before embarking on foreign currency investing are threefold.
 

1. Risk tolerance
   Before investing in foreign currency, assess your risk tolerance. Currency markets can be extremely volatile, and exchange rates can fluctuate, leading to potential gains or losses. Understand your capacity to handle risks and manage it in line with your risk appetite. Also evaluate the potential impact of foreign currency investing on your investment portfolio.
2. Economic and political factors
   Stay informed about the economic and political developments in the countries which currencies you plan to invest in. Factors like interest rates, inflation, government policies, and geopolitical events can impact currency values significantly.
3. Currency volatility
   Different currencies will have varying levels of volatility. Major global currencies like the United States (US) dollar, euro, yen, and British pound are regarded more stable, while currencies of emerging markets can be more unpredictable. Make sure to consider the potential risks associated with currency volatility and its impact on your investment returns.
   
   

Advantages of investing in foreign currencies
Investing in a foreign currency offers investors who seek to diversify their portfolios and explore new and potentially fruitful opportunities a range of benefits. While it carries certain risks, the rewards can be significant.

How to invest in foreign currency
 

1. Establish an investment goal
   Define your investment objectives. Whether for capital appreciation, diversification, or hedging against local currency risk, clarity will help determine a robust investment strategy and guide your decision-making process.
2. Open a foreign currency account
   Choose a reputable bank or financial institution, like Nedbank Private Wealth, that offers foreign currency accounts. These accounts allow you to hold and transact in different currencies. Nedbank Private Wealth provides convenient access and competitive exchange rates and transaction costs.
3. Develop an investment strategy
   Determine the appropriate investment strategy based on your goals and risk tolerance. (You can always reach out to a specialist for guidance.) Decide whether you want to actively trade currencies or adopt a long-term investment approach. Always take associated transaction costs and tax implications into consideration.
4. Stay informed and monitor market conditions
   Be active in monitoring currency markets, stay updated on relevant news, as well as economic indicators. You can make use of financial news sources, economic calendars, and technical analysis tools to make informed decisions. Market conditions can change rapidly, so staying vigilant is essential.
5. Consider professional advice
   If you lack experience or feel uncertain, seek advice from qualified professionals like financial advisers or currency specialists. They can provide valuable insights and help manage the complexities of foreign currency investing.
   
   

Investing in foreign currency can be an attractive option for South Africans seeking to diversify their investment portfolios and potentially benefit from exchange rate movements. However, it is crucial to approach foreign currency investing with careful consideration, thorough research, and a clear understanding of the associated risks. By assessing your risk tolerance, staying informed, and following an in-depth investment strategy, you can make smart decisions and capitalise on the opportunities that the global currency markets present. Remember that currency investments can be volatile, and it is always wise to seek the advice of an expert.
 

Why invest with us?
Nedbank Private Wealth offers expert personal financial advice to ensure that you make the most of your wealth in a way that is appropriate for you and your financial goals. As a financial institution, our services have delivered market-leading investment returns in four different categories for over 10 years. Benefit from the expertise of a highly skilled, experienced and dedicated research team who conducts in-depth research and apply sophisticated valuation methods to meet all your wealth management needs from a single contact point. Our investment solutions can also help you set up an integrated wealth management framework that includes banking, stockbroking, international, fiduciary, philanthropy and insurance products and services, with the convenience of accessing all these services from one point of contact.
 

Want to know more?

• Contact your wealth manager.
• If you’re not a client yet and want to find out more about how we can help you, we would appreciate hearing from you. You can call us on 0800 111 263 or complete an online contact form.
• To find out more about our international offering, click here.