A remittance is an act of sending money, either in person or by electronic means, to someone else. Remittances are a form of international transfer of funds to individuals or companies. They are often sent by migrants to their families in their home countries, as a form of support. Remittance services are provided by banks, money transfer companies and other financial institutions.
Remittances are an important part of the global economy, with many countries relying on them for development and aid. According to the World Bank, remittances have grown steadily since 1990 and have become an important source of income for individuals, households and countries alike. In 2017, migration and remittances to developing countries reached their highest level ever, with $466 billion in recorded flows.
The main advantages of sending remittances are:
1. Speed: Sending money electronically is often much faster than sending cash. It is often possible to transfer money within 24 hours, which is not possible with conventional methods.
2. Low cost: As a result of competition in the market, the cost of sending remittances has been steadily declining. Fees are often lower than the cost of bank transfers or international money orders.
3. Convenience: Sending money to other countries is often easier than sending cash or travelers checks. Remittances can be sent quickly and securely with the help of a mobile phone.
4. Flexibility: Most remittance services offer various payment and delivery options, such as door-to-door delivery, bank transfers, cash pickups and mobile wallets.
5. Security: Using a regulated remittance service is much safer than sending money through the mail. The funds are usually tracked until they reach their destination.
Despite these advantages, there are still some risks involved when sending remittances. Exchange rates can fluctuate, and fees may vary from one service to another. Furthermore, corruption is a problem in some countries, so it is important to choose a service that is trustworthy and safe.
In conclusion, sending remittances is a convenient and cost-effective way to transfer money overseas. It is often much faster than traditional methods, and can be done safely with the help of a regulated service provider. For these reasons, remittances are an essential part of the global economy and are likely to remain so in the future.