Charting new paths in FX risk management across Latin American markets

This article is written by EuroFinance

Latin America’s economic environment, with its unique challenges and opportunities, demands a tailored approach to FX risk management.  Companies like Roche Finanz AG and Holcim are not just adapting to these changes—they’re driving them.

The strategies employed by treasurers today are more crucial than ever, requiring an acute awareness of both the global financial landscape and the intricacies of regional markets. Latin America’s economic environment, with its unique challenges and opportunities, demands a tailored approach to FX risk management. By leveraging strong banking relationships, staying adaptable to shifts in U.S. monetary policy, and exploring innovative financial instruments like cryptocurrency, companies can position themselves to navigate these complexities successfully.

Companies like Roche Finanz AG and Holcim are not just adapting to these changes—they’re driving them. By centralising operations, establishing in-house banks, and enhancing cross-border connectivity, these organisations are setting new standards in treasury management.

At the 2024 EuroFinance Global Treasury Americas Miami conference Jesus Portillo, Senior cash manager at Roche Finanz AG a biotechnology company, and Carmelo Mendoza, Regional treasury manager at Holcim a Swiss multinational company that manufactures building materials, shared insights into the strategic approaches their teams have implemented. From optimising liquidity management to navigating the intricacies of foreign exchange risk, they reveal how their forward-thinking strategies are enabling their organisations to stay ahead in a complex and volatile market.

Centralisation and efficiency at Roche Finanz AG

Roche Finanz AG has adopted a highly centralised approach to its treasury operations, a strategy that has proven effective across its global and regional operations. Portillo highlighted that the company’s treasury functions, including front office, back office, and cash management, are all managed centrally. This setup ensures that processes are streamlined, efficient, and transparent, with the entire operation managed through a single ERP system.

“Everything is centralised,” Portillo emphasised, noting that the team, comprising over 25 members, oversees 450 affiliates worldwide, with a particular focus on Latin America where Roche works with two core banks. Despite the efficiency of this centralised model, Portillo acknowledged that the region is not without challenges, particularly in terms of connectivity and regulatory limitations. These challenges require constant engagement with banks to ensure that the solutions provided meet Roche’s stringent requirements for accuracy and efficiency.

Portillo also discussed Roche’s strategy of disintermediating banks through its in-house banking structure. While the company leverages its internal capabilities, it still relies on core banks for certain functions, particularly in Latin America. He noted that the company stresses connectivity and efficiency in its dealings with these banks, pushing them to meet the demands of the region’s dynamic environment.

Holcim’s approach to financial solutions and connectivity

Holcim, on the other hand, faces different challenges due to its diverse operations across various segments, including retail, roofing, and construction products. Mendoza explained that Holcim has had to adapt its treasury operations to support its broader business goals, particularly in providing financing solutions to customers. “Our main role as a company is to generate progress for people and the planet,” Mendoza said, underscoring the company’s commitment to supporting customers through tailored financial solutions.

Holcim’s approach requires close collaboration with banks to develop customised solutions that meet the needs of its diverse operations. However, Mendoza pointed out that working with banks in Latin America, especially in Central America, is not without its difficulties. The region’s banking systems are often complex and fragmented, making it challenging to establish the necessary connections for seamless financial operations. To overcome these challenges, Holcim has been moving towards identifying and partnering with core banks that can handle the majority of their treasury processes across the region.

Managing regional specificities: Argentina as a case study

Both Portillo and Mendoza touched on the complexities unique to certain countries in Latin America. Giving the example of Argentina, Mendoza pointed to the high levels of trapped cash and the restrictive regulatory environment. He noted that companies operating in Argentina need to be highly creative in managing their cash and navigating the regulatory landscape. Portillo echoed these sentiments, sharing how Roche has to come up with solutions, such as utilising real bonds, to free up funds.

Collaboration and innovation: the path forward

Despite the complexities, both treasury managers see significant opportunities in the region, particularly through collaboration with banks and leveraging technology. Portillo emphasised the importance of maintaining frequent, straightforward communication with banks to address limitations and explore new opportunities. He highlighted Roche’s ongoing efforts to standardise and automate processes across the region to improve efficiency and transparency.

Mendoza, meanwhile, stressed the importance of building strong, flexible partnerships with banks. He shared an example of how Holcim collaborated with a bank in Mexico to develop a financing environment tailored to the needs of their franchise network. This collaborative approach allowed Holcim to offer its customers better financial solutions, ultimately benefiting both the company and its clients.

Conclusion

The insights from Portillo and Mendoza underscore the complexity and dynamism of managing treasury operations in Latin America. The resilience of the U.S. economy and the Federal Reserve’s ongoing policy decisions will undoubtedly continue to influence Latin American markets, making it imperative for companies to stay ahead of the curve. Through careful planning and strategic foresight, treasurers can mitigate risks and capitalise on opportunities, ensuring their organisations remain stable and poised for growth in an increasingly interconnected world.

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November 4, 2024

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