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RealtyCast Global #9 Mastering Currency Exchange for International Property Investment with Christian Assal

RealtyCast Global #9: Mastering Currency Exchange for International Property Investment with Christian Assal

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Welcome to episode #9 of RealtyCast Global – a global connection to all things real estate, hosted by Hugh Gilliam, president of Global Property Pros.

When it comes to international property investment, the importance of understanding currency exchange cannot be overstated. RealtyCast Global’s latest episode featuring Christian Assal from Currencies Direct offers an in-depth look at how foreign exchange markets can be the deciding factor between success and failure in real estate investments abroad.

Christian Assal brings to light the often-overlooked aspect of foreign property investment – the exchange rate. He explains how choosing a specialized foreign exchange company over traditional banks could result in significant savings. This is particularly crucial given that currency exchange rates are influenced by a multitude of factors including interest rates, economic data, and geopolitical events.

As the global economy continues to evolve, so too does the landscape of investing. The episode delves into the unpredictable nature of the foreign exchange market, especially following impactful economic events like the recent surge in lumber prices. Christian provides strategic advice on managing currency exposure through methods such as diversification and hedging, highlighting the importance of aligning investment risks with one’s personal risk tolerance.

The podcast doesn’t shy away from the latest hot topic in the investment world – cryptocurrencies. Christian discusses the volatility of Bitcoin’s value and the potential dangers of making emotional investment decisions. The episode also makes bold predictions about the evolution of online trading platforms, mobile app innovations, and the pivotal role of blockchain technology in ushering in a financial revolution.

Furthermore, the conversation takes a turn towards regulatory futures, stressing the significance of staying informed on current events to make educated decisions in foreign exchange investments. This insight is particularly valuable for those looking to capitalize on the shifts in the digital investment landscape.

Christian Assal’s expertise shines through as he discusses how Currencies Direct provides competitive rates and faster delivery times, saving clients considerable amounts of money on currency conversions. The company’s focus on undercutting traditional banking fees presents a compelling case for investors to reconsider their approach to international fund transfers.

The podcast wraps up with a discussion on the future of foreign exchange and investing, emphasizing the need for regulatory compliance in the cryptocurrency space and the continued advancement of trading tools and security measures. Christian’s bullish outlook on the future of investment platforms and blockchain technology promises exciting times ahead for global investors.

Overall, the episode serves as a comprehensive guide for anyone looking to navigate the complex world of currencies and international property investment. It underscores the critical role of currency exchange knowledge in maximizing investment returns and offers a roadmap for investors to thrive in the digital era.

Make sure to listen to other episodes of RealtyCast Global.

For real estate agents looking to expand their business internationally, expose existing listings to a global pool of buyers, and connect with new clients, check out Global Property Pros.

For Property Buyers & Sellers seeking assistance in the international market, check out RealtyHive’s property marketing solutions.

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About the Guest – Christian Assal:

Christian Assal is the Business Development Executive with Currencies Direct.  Currencies Direct is a premier option for your clients to exchange their currency securely and effortlessly.  We assist foreign buyers and sellers by offering them far better rates of exchange than they receive from their bank when making transfers, we have multiple routes for your clients to choose from when transferring their now secure exchange, with of course one of the top foreign exchange firms in the industry to ensure risk mitigation.

This provides an additional service you can offer your clients, and even better, we allow you and your clients to keep their focus on the excitement of buying a beautiful property, all the while knowing that Currencies Direct has the transfers handled throughout from the first contact until the close. Your clients can always speak with me and ask any questions all along the way.

In addition, we have an affiliate partner program that is designed specifically for agents like you and is free for you and your team.  The program enables your clients to take advantage of our exchange rates saving them large amounts of money when transferring funds internationally.  We can manage and update you and your client on the entire payment process from first contact to close, and provide you and title companies transfer confirmations, all while ensuring your clients receive the best exchange rates.   We also offer optional RESPA-approved referral fees for introductions to clients who utilize our services if that is something you are interested in. 

Connect with Christian on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisassal

Contact Christian: christian.assal@currenciesdirect.com

About the host – Hugh Gilliam:

Hugh Gilliam co-owned a national transportation company, created a land development business, and worked as a general contractor in residential and commercial construction for over two decades. Hugh also co-founded an international distribution company and successfully negotiated and contracted with 135 sales representatives in the United States, Canada, France, Brazil, Japan, and the Netherlands.

Today, Mr. Gilliam is affiliated with RealtyHive, LLC where he serves as Director of International Real Estate and President of Global Property Pros. His duties include involvement in commercial and residential transactions, plus promoting marketing systems and lead generation platforms.

He is also co-founder of the luxury digital magazine, DOORWAYS INTERNATIONAL, powered by RealtyHive, which serves as a platform for Brokers and Buyers throughout 70 countries.

Hugh’s Designations Include:

  • Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist
  • Certified Distressed Property Export
  • Certified International Property Specialist
  • Certified International Investment & Immigration Specialist
  • Transnational Referral Certification

Hugh’s Memberships Include:

  • Georgia Association of REALTORS
  • National Association of REALTORS
  • International Real Estate Federation (FIABCI-USA)
  • Asian Real Estate Association of America

Investing in Real Estate vs. Stocks

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To invest in real estate or in the stock market: that is the question. Investing is perhaps the greatest way to truly grow your financial portfolio. But which between property and stocks, which route should you take?

RealtyHive is here to explore both investment options. Answer the following questions to narrow your focus!

Would you rather play it safe or take some risks?

A game of cards can tell you a lot about yourself. When betting, are you more likely to put it all on the line, confident that others’ circumstances will work in your favor? Or are you more likely to hold back and bet conservatively, even if you have a great hand?

Honor whatever your comfort level is with risk-taking and investing to some degree. Especially for first-time investors, this might not be the time to go all the way in — but it’s not the time to hold everything back, either.

For some, starting out small in the stocks can feel safer because they control how much (or how little they put in). For others, investing in real estate can feel safer because it’s an asset that they can tangibly see. If you’re more comfortable putting in a lot of money off the bat, a real estate investment might be best for you.

How much time do you want to spend on your investment?

Very little? Investing in the stocks is likely your best bet, especially if you’re starting out. Whether you hire a financial advisor or simply put money in the market and monitor it, investing in stocks will take considerably less time than in real estate.

Want to make this investment a side hustle, a passion project, or a full-blown career? Real estate investing is the way to go. Flipping or renting out houses takes a lot of time. While you could eventually get to a point of hiring a team of property managers, it will take awhile to get there.

What’s your timeline — how quickly do you want to see results?

This is a bit tricky to answer because seeing a return on your investments will undoubtedly take time. However, you have more control of when you want to pull out of the stocks than real estate investing. By that, we mean you could theoretically make a profit in a single day for your stocks and decide to sell (though most financial planners wouldn’t recommend this).

It will take longer to make money in real estate. Even if you’re into flipping houses, this takes longer than profiting from day trading. Most houses take years to gain value. If you’re impatient, investing in stocks might be the better solution for you.

What can you make better guesses on?

Have you done a lot of research and feel more comfortable starting out in the stocks? Are you living in an area that’s about to become the next trendiest city to live? It’s truly up to you to know which investment will have the best chances of panning out — though as always, there’s no guarantee.

What’s your end goal?

When do you want to retire? What’s the number in your bank account that you’re trying to hit? Where are you trying to travel to? What lifestyle are you trying to live? 

Figuring out your goals is a crucial piece to investing. If you love the idea of making small gains (and losses) over time, stocks are your best bet. If you’re looking forward to retiring with a hefty chunk of change from selling a property that has appreciated wonderfully in value, real estate is for you.

In the event that all goes well, you can make a heftier chunk of change from selling real estate later on than you can from stocks. But that comes with a hefty amount of work. Once you have some goals in mind, you’ll be more able to determine the best course of action.

We know that stocks and real estate investing are no small topics. As always, RealtyHive is driven to help people achieve their goals. Look through our listings today to find your next (or first!) investment property!