Forward Currency Contracts for £250k+ Transfers
At Lucid, every forward contract is structured personally by a CISI Chartered FX specialist. We don’t just process the transaction, we help you decide whether a forward contract is the right tool for your situation, when to lock in, and how to align the maturity with your timeline
- ︎ ︎︎CISI Chartered Member
- £250k+ Specialist
- Up to 12 Months Ahead
- Safeguarded Client Funds
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How We Help
Why Choose Forward Contracts
Forward contracts work exclusively for clients with planned, committed future transfers — typically £250,000 or more. Not because smaller transfers can’t use them, but because at £250,000+, currency movements over a 3-12 month period genuinely move the needle on what you receive.
A typical £500,000 transfer can swing £25,000-£50,000 either way during a 4-month sale or purchase period. On £5 million, that’s £250,000-£500,000 of pure currency risk. This is why wealth managers, solicitors, and private clients use forward contracts to remove that risk from the equation.
Whether you’re locking in GBP to EUR for a French villa completion, GBP to USD for a planned investment, or GBP to AED for a Dubai property purchase, your dedicated specialist structures the contract around your timeline. From the first call to the final settlement.
How Lucid Handles Your Forward Contract
Transparent Pricing, Always
No hidden markups. No surprise fees at settlement. The rate we lock in is the rate you pay, and we show you exactly how it compares to what your bank would charge.
Personal FX Strategy
We map out your forward contract around your deadlines. Forward contracts, spot trades, market orders — we explain every option clearly and recommend the right one for your situation.
1:1 Support
No call centres. No bots. You speak to the same person every time, an experienced FX specialist who knows your account and manages your contract personally.
Built to Help Everyone Win
We focus on value, not volume. Your clients get trusted support. You offer more without doing more. And we all grow, without pushy sales or broken trust.
Founded by a CISI Chartered FX Specialist
Lucid was founded by David Huggett, a CISI Chartered FX specialist with 14+ years in foreign exchange. Dave spent a decade in institutional FX before building Lucid — because he kept seeing the same problem: HNW clients moving life-changing sums through banks or brokers who treated them like retail customers.
“Forward contracts are one of the most useful tools in foreign exchange — but also one of the most misunderstood. Too many providers sell them as the answer to every problem. They’re not. A forward contract is brilliant when you have a confirmed future commitment and certainty matters more than potentially squeezing a better rate. That’s what I built Lucid to deliver — clear, honest advice on whether a forward is right for you, then flawless execution if it is.”
Dave Huggett
Founder, CISI Chartered FX Specialist
“We used Lucid for a forward contract on our French property purchase. The peace of mind knowing exactly what we’d pay regardless of how markets moved was worth every penny. David and his team made the process effortless and locked in a fantastic rate.”
Susan B
United Kingdom
“Our investment transfer to Switzerland required precision and timing. Lucid provided both. David’s insights into rate movements and tailored advice allowed us to optimise the transfer value. It’s refreshing to work with a team who genuinely understand high-value transactions.”
Rodger R
United Kingdom
“Our family office has worked with Lucid for several years to manage cross-border currency movements. Their understanding of complex structures and timing has been invaluable. The service is efficient, personal, and entirely professional — a trusted partner for every high-value transfer we execute.”
Joseph N
United Kingdom
“Our family office has worked with Lucid for several years to manage cross-border currency movements. Their understanding of complex structures and timing has been invaluable. The service is efficient, personal, and entirely professional — a trusted partner for every high-value transfer we execute.”
Joseph N
United Kingdom
“I needed to transfer a significant sum to diversify my investment portfolio overseas. Lucid provided clear guidance on timing and rate management, achieving a much stronger return than expected. Their expertise and discretion made the process feel effortless — exactly what you want from a private FX partner.”
Harry C
Majorca
“I use Lucid regularly for high-value transfers related to investments and personal projects. Their consistency, responsiveness, and market insight set them apart. It’s rare to find a financial partner that combines technical skill with genuine personal service — Lucid achieves both.”
Catherine J
Spain
Forward Contracts: Common Questions, Straight Answers
What is a forward currency contract?
A forward currency contract is an agreement to exchange one currency for another at a fixed rate, on a specific date in the future — typically anywhere from 3 days to 12 months ahead. You agree today’s rate now, pay a small deposit (5-10%), and settle the balance when the contract matures. The rate doesn’t change in between, removing currency risk from your planned transfer.
When should I use a forward contract instead of a spot trade?
Use a forward contract when you have a confirmed future commitment (a property completion date, a planned investment, a regular supplier payment) and need budget certainty.
Use a spot trade when you need funds moved immediately, or when your timeline is genuinely flexible and you’re comfortable with currency risk. Lucid specialists help you decide based on your specific situation — not all transfers benefit from a forward contract.
How far ahead can I lock in an exchange rate?
Lucid offers forward contracts for up to 12 months ahead on major currency pairs (GBP, EUR, USD, AED, CHF, AUD, CAD, JPY, and others). For some exotic currencies, the maximum forward window may be shorter — typically 3-6 months. Your specialist will confirm the available timeframe for your specific currency pair.
How much deposit do I pay for a forward contract?
Typically 5-10% of the contract value, depending on the currency pair, market volatility, and contract duration. The deposit secures the rate and is held against the contract — it’s not a fee. The remaining balance is settled at maturity (or earlier if your timeline shifts forward).
What happens if my completion date moves earlier or later?
Forward contracts have flexibility built in. If your transfer comes forward, you can settle the contract early at no penalty. If it moves later, the contract can typically be extended (subject to a small adjustment for the change in interest rate differentials between the two currencies). We coordinate this directly with your solicitor or advisor as needed.
What if exchange rates move in my favour after I lock in?
You’re committed to the rate you locked in. If markets move 2% in your favour, you don’t benefit — but equally, if they move 5% against you, you’re protected. The trade-off is removing risk in exchange for giving up potential gain. For most large planned transfers, that certainty is more valuable than speculation.
How does Lucid pricing compare to banks for forward contracts?
Bank margins on forward contracts typically range from 1.5-3% above the interbank rate. Lucid charges 0.3-0.8% on contracts of £250,000 and above. On a £1 million forward contract, that’s a saving of £7,000-£25,000 versus the typical bank rate. Larger contracts save proportionally more.
Are my funds safe with a forward contract?
Yes. All client funds — including forward contract deposits — are held in safeguarded accounts through Currency Cloud, an FCA-authorised electronic money institution (FRN: 900199), completely separate from Lucid’s operational accounts. This structure is mandated by UK regulation.
What’s the minimum size for a forward contract with Lucid?
Lucid’s minimum forward contract is £250,000. Below this level, the savings versus other providers don’t justify our specialist model. For smaller forward contracts, most mass-market currency brokers offer suitable services.
How quickly can I set up a forward contract?
Most clients can have a forward contract booked within 24-48 hours of initial contact. Account setup is the longest part — once your account is active, locking in a rate happens within minutes during market hours. For urgent situations, your specialist can prioritise same-day setup.
Can I have multiple forward contracts running simultaneously?
Yes. Many of our corporate and wealth management clients run multiple forward contracts to hedge different commitments at different times. We can structure rolling forward contracts for regular payment schedules, or staggered contracts for phased property purchases. Your specialist designs the structure around your specific needs.
Who We Help
Forward Contracts: Built Around Your Timeline
Whether you’re locking in for a property completion, investment timing, or business commitment, every forward contract is structured by an expert who understands high-value requirements.
Overseas Property Buyers (£250k–£20M)
Property Sellers Repatriating Funds
- Selling abroad? Fix your sterling proceeds now
- Spain, France, Portugal, Italy
- Eliminate currency uncertainty during sale period
Business & Corporate FX
- Hedge planned supplier or service payments
- Protect margins from currency volatility
- Multi-leg forwards for regular payment schedules
Real Savings
Real Protection on £250k+ Forward Contracts
Currency markets typically move 5-10% during a 3-6 month sale or purchase period. On larger transfers, that movement translates directly to your bottom line. A forward contract removes that risk entirely.
| Transfer Size | Currency Risk Without Forward | Forward Contract Cost | Risk Eliminated |
|---|---|---|---|
| £250,000 | £12,500 – £25,000 | £750 – £2,000 | £10,500 – £23,000 |
| £500,000 | £25,000 – £50,000 | £1,500 – £4,000 | £21,000 – £46,000 |
| £1,000,000 | £50,000 – £100,000 | £3,000 – £8,000 | £42,000 – £92,000 |
| £5,000,000 | £250,000 – £500,000 | £15,000 – £40,000 | £210,000 – £460,000 |
Risk figures based on typical 5-10% currency movement over a 3-6 month period. Forward contract cost reflects Lucid’s typical 0.3-0.8% margin. Your specialist will show you the exact margin before you commit — always.
Forward Contracts
Forward Contracts. Built Around You.
Lucid uses forward contracts across a range of high-value situations. Some clients are buying property abroad and need to lock in their GBP cost months before completion.
Others are managing corporate treasury and hedging planned supplier payments. In every case, the approach is the same: understand the situation first, then build a contract around it.
That means no rushed decisions. No pressure to lock in now if waiting makes more sense. Just clear advice, honest pricing, and a forward contract that matures exactly when and where it needs to.
We Help
Corporate Clients
Skip the usual FX headaches and get reliable, strategic support.
Private Clients
Make high-value overseas transactions with confidence.
Partners
Grow your business, improve client relations.