Citibank Delays and Missing Funds in Expatrio SWIFT Transfer for Blocked Account

I recently initiated a SWIFT transfer of $12,617.49 USD on March 7, 2024, to open a blocked bank account in Germany through Expatrio. However, the funds were delayed for two weeks at the intermediary bank, Citibank (SWIFT code: CITIUS33), with no clear explanation of their status. When Expatrio finally confirmed receiving the funds, I noticed discrepancies in the amount transferred.

The USD I sent had appreciated against the euro during the delay, and Expatrio should have received the full equivalent of €11,417. However, not only did Expatrio receive less than expected, but additional fees of $177 and €90.49 were also deducted. Despite numerous follow-ups with my bank and Expatrio over two weeks, I was left without clear answers or resolution.

Frustrated, I requested to cancel the transfer and switch to Fintiba for my blocked account. Ironically, the same night I filed for cancellation, Citibank processed the transfer, adding to the confusion. This experience has highlighted major issues with Expatrio’s choice of intermediary banks, and I demand accountability for the missing funds and the financial losses I incurred due to these delays.