USD INR ₹ 88.03
GBP INR ₹ 105.28
CAD INR ₹ 58.92
Articles

UPI - Xoom's Real Time Money Transfer For NRIs

Updated on January 21, 2022 02:54 pm
Xoom's UPI

Xoom, a PayPal international digital money transfer service, announced its integration with the National Payments Corporation of India's Unified Payments Interface (UPI), a real-time payment system facilitating inter-bank transactions in India.

According to the Ministry of External Affairs of India, there are 32 million Non-Residential Indians (NRIs) and Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs). With the UPI integration, NRIs and PIOs living in countries such as the United States (US), Canada, United Kingdom (UK), and the rest of Europe can now remit money to their family and friends in India in an instant.

UPI is a real-time payment system developed by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) and regulated by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to facilitate inter-bank transactions.

UPI interface facilitates money transfers without having to source or share bank account details and works by transferring funds between two bank accounts on a mobile platform. Other benefits of the UPI interface include:

  • Instant money transfer round the clock 24 by 7 and 365 days since it is completely digital
  • No need for bank account numbers and IFSC codes, you only need the UPI identity (ID) of your recipient in India
  • Recipients of money transfers can link multiple bank accounts to receive payments using a single UPI ID. Or set up a default bank account to receive the payments

How Does Xoom's UPI Work?

UPI payments make use of Virtual Payment Address (VPA). The VPA is essentially the user's financial address that is linked to the bank account of their choice. There is no need to remember details like IFSC code, beneficiary account number, net banking ID for sending or receiving money.

To access the UPI service, users must have a bank account with a bank that supports UPI payments. The user's mobile number needs to be registered with the bank account for verification purposes. Once the bank account gets verified, the VPA is created.

With Xoom, customers can select the UPI payment method and enter the Indian recipient's UPI ID or VPA to transfer money overseas instantly, around the clock.

With the integration of UPI, Xoom customers can now transfer money to 66 banks across India, including leading banks such as State Bank of India and ICICI Bank.

According to the NPCI, UPI handled a total of 2.23 billion transactions worth Rupees 4.16 trillion in December 2020, breaching the 2-billion mark for the third straight month.

The new service will provide more convenience and more options to Xoom customers and enable NRIs and PIOs to send money online to families back in India securely and seamlessly.



Real-time Payments and International Remittances to India

Remittances have lifted millions of people around the world from extreme poverty and serve as a lifeline for many households. Remittances have a positive impact on healthcare, education, emergencies, and entrepreneurship.

India is the top recipient of remittances in the world, followed by China, Mexico, and the Philippines. India has been the focus market for Xoom and has helped many NRIs and PIOs save on money transfer fees and get a higher exchange rate.

A pioneer in digital remittances, Xoom is one of the most secure and the fastest way to send money, pay bills, and reload phones for loved ones in over 160 countries globally.

Vice President and General Manager, Xoom, Julian King shared, "Xoom is a pioneer in creating fast, innovative, and secure digital money transfers. Real-time payments via UPI in India have been a critical and essential payment tool during the pandemic and emerged as one of the most popular payment methods in the country.

"India is an important market for us. We are delighted that Indian diaspora across many markets can now use UPI to send remittances back to their loved ones back home with Xoom."

About Xoom

Xoom, a PayPal service, is a digital money transfer provider based in San Francisco, California. Xoom offers a convenient way to send money, reload prepaid mobile phones, and pay bills for family and friends around the world in a fast, secure, and cost-effective way, using your mobile phone, tablet, or desktop computer. Using Xoom, customers can send money to over 160 countries, including Mexico, India, the Philippines, and throughout Europe, Asia, and Africa.

 23735 views
Rate article:
(5.0)
 
 
Money Transfer FAQ's
Related Articles
Wise Travel Card
The Wise Travel Card: Your Perfect Companion for International Travel

Traveling abroad comes with many exciting opportunities, but managing your money efficiently can sometimes be a challenge. This is where the Wise Travel Card becomes an invaluable tool. This prepaid travel card allows you to spend in multiple currencies, avoid high fees, and make your travel experience smoother. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the Wise prepaid card, how it works, and why it’s one of the best travel cards available today.What is the Wise Travel Card?The Wise Travel Card, also known as the Wise prepaid card, is a prepaid travel card designed to help you manage your money when traveling abroad. Unlike traditional credit cards, this card lets you load money in different currencies before your trip, making it easy to pay for services and products in local currencies without dealing with high exchange rates.How Does the Wise Travel Card Work?The Wise Travel Card works by allowing you to convert your money into several currencies at the real exchange rate. You can load money onto the card before you travel, and once you’re at your destination, you can spend it in the local currency without paying extra fees. This makes it one of the best credit card alternatives for travel.For example, if you’re traveling to Europe, you can convert your home currency into Euros through the Wise account, load the Euros onto your card, and use the card to pay for everything from meals to souvenirs without any hidden fees. It’s a seamless way to manage your money on the go.Why Choose the Wise Prepaid Travel Card?There are many reasons to choose the Wise prepaid travel card over other options:Low Fees: Unlike traditional credit cards, the Wise travel card doesn’t charge high foreign transaction fees or markups on exchange rates.Real Exchange Rates: Wise uses the real mid-market exchange rate, which is often better than what most banks or credit card companies offer.Global Usability: The card works in over 150 countries, and you can hold more than 50 currencies on your Wise account.Security: You can freeze and unfreeze the card anytime using the Wise app, which adds an extra layer of security.How to Get a Wise Travel CardGetting a Wise prepaid travel card is easy. You need to sign up for a Wise account, complete a simple verification process, and then apply for the card through the Wise app or website. Once approved, the card will be delivered to you, and you can start using it as soon as you load money onto it. If you’ve ever wondered how to get a Wise travel card, the process is straightforward and can be completed within a few days.Is the Wise Travel Card Good for You?The Wise Travel Card is a great choice for many types of travelers. Whether you are going on a short vacation or traveling for business, the Wise card offers flexibility, lower fees, and global access, making it an excellent tool for managing your travel expenses. It’s also ideal for people who want to avoid the high fees associated with credit cards while traveling internationally. Many Wise travel card reviews from users confirm that it’s a good alternative to traditional credit cards.What Makes the Wise Card Stand Out?When comparing the Wise prepaid card to other travel cards, you’ll notice several advantages. First, it’s one of the few cards that offer the real exchange rate with no hidden charges. Second, it’s easy to manage through the Wise app, where you can track your spending, freeze your card, and convert currencies instantly. This level of transparency and convenience is why many consider the Wise card for travel to be the best choice.Are Prepaid Credit Cards Good for International Travel?Yes, prepaid credit cards like the Wise card are excellent for international travel. They offer control over spending, lower fees, and safety since you can only spend what you load onto the card. You don’t have to worry about incurring debt or paying high-interest fees, as is often the case with traditional credit cards. So if you’re wondering, “Are prepaid cards good for travel?” the answer is a resounding yes, especially when it comes to the Wise card for traveling.How to Apply for a Wise Travel CardTo apply for a Wise travel card, simply sign up on the Wise website or download the Wise app. After completing a quick verification process, you can apply for the Wise prepaid travel card. The card will be sent to you by mail, and you’ll be ready to use it once you load money onto it.Conclusion: Why the Wise Travel Card is the Best Option for TravelersIn conclusion, the Wise travel card stands out as one of the best prepaid travel cards on the market. It offers low fees, real-time exchange rates, global access, and user-friendly features through the Wise app. If you’re asking, “Is the Wise travel card good?” or “Which credit card is best for travel?” then the Wise card should be high on your list. Whether you’re looking for a reliable way to manage your travel funds or want to avoid the hidden fees of traditional credit cards, the Wise card for travel is a smart choice.

Understanding USD to PHP
Understanding USD to PHP Exchange Rates in 2024

For many immigrants or individuals supporting their families in the Philippines, understanding the fluctuations in USD to PHP exchange rates is very tricky. Navigating the intricacies of these rates involves examining a spectrum of economic, political, and social factors.CompareRemit is here to make life easier for you, so you can make the best decision with little to no hassle on your part. In this guide, we'll unravel the complexities surrounding USD to PHP exchange rates, providing valuable insights to empower you in making informed decisions for your money transfers.​​Interest Rates: The Currency Tug-of-WarOne of the primary factors that influence exchange rates is  interest rates. When the U.S. Federal Reserve adjusts interest rates, it sends ripples through the currency market. Generally, higher interest rates attract foreign investment, strengthening the USD against the PHP. For individuals, keeping an eye on interest rate differentials between the U.S. and the Philippines can offer insights into potential shifts in exchange rates.Inflation: The Balancing ActInflation, the rise in the price of goods and services, plays a pivotal role in currency valuation. Countries experiencing lower inflation rates often witness an appreciation in their currency. Comparing inflation rates between the U.S. and the Philippines allows you to gauge the potential strength of the USD. A lower inflation rate in the U.S. compared to the Philippines may contribute to a stronger USD.Government Policies: Shaping Economic StabilityGovernment decisions and economic policies, both domestic and international, have large impacts on exchange rates. Policies promoting economic stability, prudent fiscal management, and sound monetary measures contribute to a stronger currency. Staying informed about the policies of both the U.S. and the Philippines will allow you to gain an understanding of the economic health and help predict dips and rises in exchange rates. Trade Balances: A Global PerspectiveThe dynamics of global trade, including exports and imports, definitely impact currency values. A country with a trade surplus, exporting more than it imports, may see a stronger currency. It might be very tedious to stay up to date with trade imbalances between the U.S. and the Philippines, but doing so can serve as an indicator of potential exchange rate movements.Historical Data: Patterns and PredictionsAnalyzing historical USD to PHP exchange rate trends can reveal patterns and provide insights. While past performance doesn't guarantee future results, understanding how rates responded to similar economic, political, or social events can guide your decisions. Historical data offers a valuable tool for predicting potential movements in exchange rates.Practical Tips for Informed Money TransfersStay Informed: Regularly follow financial news and updates from both the U.S. and the Philippines to understand the broader economic context. Regularly read our blogs to stay up to date with all the major money transfer news. Utilize Reliable Tools: Use CompareRemit’s online comparison tool and email alerts to track real-time exchange rates, ensuring you get the best value for your money transfers.Seek Professional Advice: Consulting financial experts or using professional services can provide personalized insights tailored to your specific situation, enhancing your decision-making process.In conclusion, comprehending the factors influencing USD to PHP exchange rates empowers you to make informed decisions when sending money to the Philippines. By staying attuned to economic indicators, leveraging historical data, and adopting a proactive approach, you optimize your money transfers, securing a more stable financial future for your loved ones.

Money from India to UK
Best Way For An NRI to Repatriate Money From India to UK

 When it comes to repatriating large sums of money from India, it puts every NRI in a situation where he has to consider different obligations regarding monetary cross-transfer. Taxation, reliability and transfer timelines are a few things that influence these decisions.Personal finances have to be dealt with delicately and ensured that there is no loss during the due process of remittances. There are various options available in the marketplace today, be it via traditional banking or the modern ways of online transfers.CompareRemit offers a platform that allows you to compare different players in the market and pick the best rates that suit your needs.Repatriation from an NRE AccountAs a component of the liberalization scheme of the Reserve Bank of India, remitting funds from India has become relatively easier. Balances in NRE (Non-Resident External) accounts are freely repatriable. No formalities or requisite permissions are required for remittances abroad be it any amount. Funds in accounts are usually funds deposited from abroad or current income like interest or dividends on investments made through foreign funds.Repatriation from an NRO accountBalances in NRO (Non-Resident Ordinary) accounts are subject to certain conditions. The remittance of USD 1 million per financial year from NRO accounts is allowed subject to certain procedural formalities. NRO account balances include income earned locally or certain capital account transactions. Form 15-CA and 15-CB need to be submitted before a remittance can go through.Read more on difference between NRE and NRO account on CompareRemit.The Traditional Option - BanksThe most sought after choice for remittances to the UK are banks. Banks are the most popular means of transferring money to the UK because:There is a high level of trust owing to the various government regulations.Familiarity and the comfort of knowing the neighborhood-friendly banker.There are two ways one could remit funds using banking services:Online - If your bank has given you access to internet banking and allows repatriation through online instructions.In-Person - One could walk into the bank yourself and have the formalities completed there and then and have the satisfaction of seeing it to its destination with a receipt in your hand.However, it is important to note that INR to GBP/GBP to INR exchange rates may not always be competitive. The transfer fees can be high and the charges, not always transparent.Selection of Remittance Service ProviderShould you want to avoid remitting through banks, approaching a marketplace of money changers would be the next best option. A selection of remittance service providers should be made based on the following:- Transfer chargesSpeed of transferExchange ratesCharges on the conversion of currency (INR to GBP)Freeze option on exchange rate while process requirements are completedFlexibility of payment optionsAlternative Options for Remittance from India to UKWise - UK based transfer service supporters - Wise incorporates credit cards/debit cards, SWIFT, international transfers to bank accounts, domestic wire transfers and more. Wise offers competitive exchange rates for pound to rupee or rupee to pound conversions. It assures fast and low-cost online money transfers from India to the UK.ExTravelMoney - One of the easiest services for transferring funds from India to the UK, they also offer the facility of booking orders online.Western Union - In four easy steps available online and your money is sent from India to the UK. They offer competitive rates and faster transfers as well.Thomas Cook - Provides the best foreign exchange rates besides giving the assurance of secure and timely remittances for specific purposes.BookMyForex - With zero commission and zero charges, they claim to send money from India to the UK at guaranteed lowest exchange rates. The time span for the transfers to be effective is 12 to 48 hours.To select the right money transfer service one should keep the cost and time factors in mind. Convenience at a reasonable cost should be the mantra for selecting a suitable remittance service provider.

Download the CompareRemit App
Download the CompareRemit App
Personalize your CompareRemit experience with your preferred corridor and receive target exchange rate notifications, seamless transitions to partner apps, and real-time comparisons of top remittance providers at your fingertips.
Personalize your CompareRemit experience with your preferred corridor and receive target exchange rate notifications, seamless transitions to partner apps, and real-time comparisons of top remittance providers at your fingertips.

Get Listed or Advertise

Download Our Free App

Try our faster, enhanced mobile app for a better experience

CompareRemit App