Recap & Recording: XLcompass – FX & Treasury Risks Under Pressure

Key Takeaways

Alex Goraieb

Better FX execution starts with better information

“Ultimately, it’s about having full transparency on how to best execute any given trade.”

Alex explained that many corporates miss opportunities by relying on standard RFQ processes without understanding how trades are executed. Independent market data helps treasury teams compare execution methods, select the right counterparties, and reduce unnecessary trading costs. Better information leads to better conversations with banks and stronger decision-making.

AI helps treasury teams work faster, but people stay in control

“This is about augmentation, not replacing people.”

AI can review large amounts of market data, compare alternatives, and support treasury decisions in seconds. Alex stressed that treasury teams still need to validate the output and understand the reasoning behind every recommendation. Good data, reliable controls, and treasury expertise remain essential.

Nigel Owen

Treasury policies earn their value during periods of uncertainty

“This is your treasury policy’s World Cup final.”

Nigel encouraged treasury teams to trust the policies they have already put in place. Stressful markets are not the moment to rewrite investment limits or risk appetite. Strong governance allows treasury to respond consistently and gives management confidence that risks are being managed as intended.

Liquidity comes before yield

“You’re a treasurer, not a trader.”

Higher returns can be attractive, yet treasury’s priority remains protecting cash and keeping it available when the business needs it. Nigel noted that many organisations are shortening investment tenors to preserve flexibility as market uncertainty continues.

Jean-Pierre Renard

Good decisions depend on reliable information

“Make sure that you’re looking at the proper picture.”

Jean-Pierre emphasised that treasury systems should reflect the risks that matter most to each organisation. The right metrics differ from one business to another, whether the focus is FX, energy, liquidity, or supply chains. Treasury needs accurate information before decisions reach the boardroom.

Treasury earns a stronger seat at the table by answering business questions

“How big are the risks? Where are they sitting? Should we bear them?”

Treasury creates value when it helps management understand risk in business terms. Quantifying exposures, preparing scenarios, and explaining the financial impact of decisions allows treasury to contribute beyond daily operations.