Guild Wars 2

So I recently moved from the USA to Europe and set my Gem Buying country from USA to UK.

The price for 4000 Gems went from $50 to £42.50.

At the current rate of exchange that is $66.

Decided to check Germany and 400 Gems is €50 which is $67.

Yet it seems that Hong Kong, China, Australia, South Africa and other ones I tried out all get to buy 4000 gems for $50.

Why is this?

I think you have to account for different prices/earnings ratios in the different countries, but that’s just an educated guess.

I’ve heard that Europe has some crazy taxes (i.e. VAT). Digital services purchases over the internet is subject to VAT. Perhaps that’s involved outside of any exchange rates?

In the UK I believe Anet is required to pay a VAT rate of 20% (which accounts for $10 in difference) in addition to any other fees or taxes applicable in the region. The same is likely true in Germany. In addition, currency conversions aren’t free.