What is the most expensive currency in the world? Top 20 currencies ranking for 2025

Many people believe that the dollar, euro, and pound are the most expensive, but the reality is quite different. There are much less known currencies that reach much higher exchange rates in the international market. For those considering diversifying investments and protecting assets in 2025, knowing this ranking is essential.

Why invest in foreign currency now?

Persistent inflation in Brazil and the devaluation of the real make diversification into foreign currencies increasingly important. Investors seek:

• Protection against exchange rate volatility
• Exposure to stable economies
• Access to highly liquid markets
• Preservation of purchasing power

Strong currencies offer an additional layer of asset security that the local currency alone cannot guarantee.

The ranking of the most expensive currencies in 2025

Middle Eastern currencies: the champions of appreciation

The Kuwaiti Dinar remains the most expensive currency in the world, with an exchange rate close to 3.30 USD. This is a direct result of its enormous oil reserves and conservative fiscal policies that ensure stability.

Right behind is the Bahraini Dinar (2.72 USD), driven by a diversified financial sector. The Omani Rial (2.65 USD) also stands out, benefiting from political stability and investments in renewable energy.

The Jordanian Dinar (1.52 USD) completes the quartet of the most valued Arab currencies, strengthened by strategic alliances in the region.

European and North Atlantic currencies

The British Pound (1.35 USD) regained strength after Brexit, with increasing investments in technology. The Gibraltar Pound (1.34 USD), linked to the British, also benefits from tourism and financial services.

The Swiss Franc (1.12 USD) remains a safe haven in times of international geopolitical uncertainty.

The Euro (1.10 USD) continues to be strong thanks to European investments in digitization and sustainability.

High-value dollars and parallel currencies

The US Dollar (1.00 USD) lost its position as the most valued currency but remains the most recognized and used in global transactions. Market crises and inflation have reduced its relative strength.

The Cayman Islands Dollar (1.25 USD) benefits from its status as a tax haven with attractive regulations for international investors.

Strong emerging economy currencies

Singapore stands out with its dollar (0.75 USD), driven by technology and maritime trade. The Australian Dollar (0.70 USD) gains relevance with natural resources and Asian trade partnerships.

The Canadian Dollar (0.78 USD) maintains stability through oil and mineral exports. In Latin America, the Mexican Peso (0.06 USD) gains strength with economic reforms and nearshoring trends.

Other valued currencies

The Norwegian Krone (0.11 USD) attracts ESG investments through clean energy exports. The UAE Dirham (0.30 USD) consolidates Dubai as a cryptocurrency and fintech hub.

The Israeli New Shekel (0.28 USD) grows with a startup and innovation ecosystem. The Saudi Riyal (0.27 USD) benefits from the Vision 2030 project that diversifies revenues.

The Maldivian Rufiyaa (0.065 USD) appreciates with luxury tourism and infrastructure. The Turkish Lira (0.04 USD) shows high volatility but offers opportunities in commodities.

What makes a currency expensive and valued?

Several factors determine a currency’s value in 2025:

• Controlled inflation rates
• Liquidity and trading volume
• Economic stability of the issuing country
• Favorable exchange rate
• Positive trade balance
• Global macroeconomic factors

The Kuwaiti Dinar tops the list precisely because it combines all these elements: abundant natural resources, a diversified economy, and robust fiscal policies.

The best combinations for investing

For those seeking currency diversification, the most interesting combinations include:

• Swiss Franc (safe haven)
• Japanese Yen (Asian stable currency)
• US Dollar (global benchmark)
• Canadian Dollar (sound market)
• Euro (strong economic bloc)

Combining strong currencies (like CHF and KWD) with emerging ones (MXN, TRY) creates a balanced portfolio with potential returns and security.

How to start in 2025?

Brazilian investors have access to exchange platforms that allow trading these currencies affordably:

1. Open an account on a trusted exchange platform
2. Consult IMF and central bank reports
3. Diversify between strong and emerging currencies
4. Follow global events (wars, elections, monetary policies)
5. Regularly review your position

Geopolitical events, central bank decisions, and economic trends significantly impact exchange rates. A well-planned strategy considers all these factors.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice.