Cyber bargain hunters enjoying dollars
The holiday season is just around the corner and for internet shoppers, Christmas time has arrived when the Australian soared.
Cyber shoppers are now enjoying purchasing items like perfume, digital cameras, and books from US and Europe as buying online has now become cheaper without the added hassle of going out.
Australian dollar has recorded its highest point since the currency was launched on the foreign exchange markets in 1983. Its value has reached 99.18 US cents at 10:30m (AEDT) the previous night after it has played around 99 US cent mark during the European trading.
Bargain hunters are now saving hundreds of dollars after rummaging the internet and ringing around. Parents who are conscious of their budgets can now grab a Bugaboo Bee Stroller for only $969.94 which already includes the fees and shipping, a far cry from its original price which was $1119.95.
A book from Amazon, which is usually delivered in a week or two, is now $10 cheaper compared to its original price.
Craig James, CommSec chief economist stated that there is no other better time to purchase items from the US than now, when the Aussie dollar is strong and is still expected to get stronger. He further stated that along with the growth of Aussie dollar, consumers’ confidence in online shopping is also increasing. There are also businesses setting up in the US who are discussing with companies who only used to ship to the US to also send items to Australia.
However, consumer should not also forget that they can also buy items from stores in the country who are also offering competitive and discounted prices. eBay Australia stated that a 60 per cent spike on their UK and US sites are observed whenever the Aussie dollar rise.
Consumer magazine Choice has posted a warning about purchasing overseas online. A spokesperson said that consumers should be prepared for extra fees and surcharges which includes a conversion fee in currency and the shipping charges.
