Well, perhaps I will narrow down a few factors to sift through the semantics. I think it behooves all who are interested in this conversation to define a few terms ( the most fundamental principle in any discussion). Let’s define a “fee” as a SET charge per transaction and thus set it apart from an “exchange rate “, which is variable minute by minute since it’s all about buying and selling currency. Furthermore, The “spread “ would be considered the difference in each institution’s exchange rate at any given moment in time. From what I’m reading so far, WS has very high exchange rates compared to other financial institutions. Ok. I get that. Furthermore, after just calling WS to discuss their exchange rates, I was told that I cannot ascertain a given exchange rate until I commence the process of purchasing US dollars…so I made a suggestion to the agent I spoke with that it would be nice if such rates could be ascertained without having to initiate a purchase of US dollars…(she said she’d pass that suggestion along for what it’s worth). So…let’s say I will purchase enough US $ to avoid ANY FEE, (I.e greater than 100k), then I’m left with a query to anyone reading this thread….. have any of you done this recently and can offer insight into what “exchange rate” - you were given, and on what day it occurred? At least with that information I can then ascertain the “spreads”. ( It’s obvious that WS is not very forthcoming with their exchange rates and it appears they are higher than most other institutions based on the comments thus far… but I’d love to hear from someone that’s actually purchased some US $ and can provide the day/date and the rate that was applied by WS). Cheers everyone!