What is treasury management and how does it work

Treasury management refers to the strategic management of a company’s financial assets, liabilities, and cash flows. It involves overseeing various financial aspects to ensure optimal utilization of funds and effective risk management. 

The primary objectives of treasury management include:

• Maximizing liquidity
• Minimizing financial risks
• Optimizing financial performance

Key functions of treasury management

Cash management

Effective cash management is at the core of treasury management. In today’s global business environment, businesses need the ability to pay suppliers in the right currency while avoiding over-the-top transaction fees for their cross-border payments. While the traditional method was to use a bank for cash management and international money transfers, today there are various methods for managing cash flow worldwide. 

Risk management

Treasury management also encompasses risk mitigation and management. This includes identifying and assessing financial risks such as interest rate risk, foreign exchange risk, credit risk, and liquidity risk. This is important for any business and in particular businesses that work globally. 

Capital structure and financing

Another important function of treasury management is managing a company’s capital structure and financing activities. Treasury professionals determine the optimal mix of debt and equity, evaluate funding options, and execute financing transactions to support business objectives. They work closely with stakeholders, including banks and investors, to secure necessary funding at favorable terms.

Treasury operations

Treasury operations involve the day-to-day execution and administration of treasury activities. This includes managing bank accounts, processing payments and receipts, maintaining relationships with financial institutions, and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements. Efficient treasury operations contribute to enhanced financial control and streamlined cash management processes.

Treasury management and foreign exchange

Exchange rates play a crucial role in treasury management, particularly in the context of foreign exchange transactions and the management of foreign exchange risk. 

Exchange rates determine the value of one currency in relation to another. They represent the rate at which currencies are exchanged in the global foreign exchange market. Exchange rates are influenced by various factors, including interest rates, inflation rates, geopolitical events, and market sentiment. They are dynamic and can fluctuate significantly over time.

What is foreign exchange risk?

As mentioned, exchange rates are constantly shifting. This means that if your business relies on multiple currencies, you are at risk of losing the value of your money due to exchange rate shifts. 

Understanding this risk is important for anyone involved in cross-border transactions so that they can build systems to avoid relying heavily on any one type of foreign currency.

Do small or medium-sized businesses need to be concerned about treasury management?

Yes! Treasury management is important for any business, no matter the size. Freelancers and marketplace owners that find themselves constantly sending money overseas in various currencies, need to make sure that they are using the proper platforms to do so, in order to remain safe, save money, and minimize frustration and wait times. 

Frequently asked questions