Exchange Rates
Large amounts of international trade and many limits and sums
insured for Marine insurance contracts are negotiated in a currency
other than Australian Dollars (A$).
Fluctuating rates of exchange between currencies are common with
most entities exposed to this area implementing forms of hedging or
risk management to reduce the likely impact on their business.
Where rapid and significant variances occur together, the best laid
hedging and risk management plans may not be sufficient to completely
eliminate impact on a business.
This bulletin highlights some of the exchange rate issues which may impact Marine insurance covers.
Currency and Trade
The currency of the United States of America (US$) is recognised as the
international currency of trade, shipping and to a lesser
extent,aviation. Some other currencies, notably the Euro have a showing
in trade contracts however, the US$ is predominant.
Sale and purchase agreements will often impose the trade currency of
choice as US$ which eventually leads most non-USA domiciled traders,
sellers or buyers into a foreign currency transaction and exposure to
exchange rate fluctuation.
Business plans, projects and actual transactions which establish profit
or transaction margins on an expected exchange rate level can be eroded
or extinguished where rapid exchange rate fluctuation occurs.
Likely Marine Impact
(where exposed to foreign currency or overseas supply)
- Hulls - revaluations may be desirable as machinery/parts cost increase.
- Cargo
- Limits of liability may need review and a watch put on turnover and
sendings to ensure a blowout in figures does not give the insured a
surprise at time of adjustment.
- Liability Limits - may need review.
Claims Impact
Claims requiring payment in foreign currency will need conversion from
A$ with resultant monitory impact to the claims record of the insured.
The replacement of components and parts sourced from overseas may
attract inflationary influences due to exchange rate fluctuation.
Insurer Capacity
Insurer per risk capacities will often be established on an annual
basis following renewal of treaty reinsurance. Rapid and significant
variations in exchange rates can lead to short term capacity
constraints on risks with large limits or sums insured in foreign
currency.
Where rapid and significant exchange rate variations occur, care should
be taken to accurately assess and react to any adverse impact on
insurance coverage.
Disclaimer: This bulletin is for information purposes only and is not legal advice.