The most expensive money in the world in 2025: Meet the 20 most valuable currencies

2026-01-06 18:20:36

You probably think that the dollar is the most valuable money that exists. But get ready for a surprise: there are much more expensive currencies circulating around the world, and some of them can be excellent choices to diversify your investments this year.

When we talk about currencies with higher purchasing power, the scenario is quite different from common sense. The dollar, euro, and pound stand out, but they are not necessarily the most expensive money in the world. This is a reality that surprises many Brazilian investors, especially because investing in foreign currencies has become a trend in 2025.

Why diversify into foreign currencies?

Persistent inflation and the devaluation of the real make it clear: protecting assets in international currencies is a solid strategy. When you allocate resources in strong currencies, you can:

Safeguard capital from local market volatility
Access robust and expanding economies
Take advantage of liquidity in emerging markets with growth potential

This is not just an option; it’s a necessity for those seeking returns beyond the domestic horizon.

Ranking: The 20 most valued currencies of 2025

Based on average exchange rates against the dollar and recent economic indicators, here is the full picture:

Position 1 - Kuwaiti Dinar (KWD): 1 KWD = 3.30 USD

Leads the list as the most expensive money in the world in absolute value, supported by huge oil reserves and strict fiscal management.

Position 2 - Bahraini Dinar (BHD): 1 BHD = 2.72 USD

Strengthened by a diversified financial sector and modern infrastructure.

Position 3 - Omani Rial (OMR): 1 OMR = 2.65 USD

Political stability and investments in clean energy attract international capital.

Position 4 - Jordanian Dinar (JOD): 1 JOD = 1.52 USD

Strategic regional relationships reinforce its solidity.

Position 5 - British Pound (GBP): 1 GBP = 1.35 USD

Post-Brexit recovery and advances in the tech sector boost demand.

Position 6 - Gibraltar Pound (GIP): 1 GIP = 1.34 USD

Linked to the British pound, thriving with tourism and financial services.

Position 7 - Cayman Islands Dollar (KYD): 1 KYD = 1.25 USD

Flexible regulatory environment for financial operations.

Position 8 - Swiss Franc (CHF): 1 CHF = 1.12 USD

Considered a refuge during times of geopolitical turbulence.

Position 9 - Euro (EUR): 1 EUR = 1.10 USD

European integration in digitization and sustainability maintains its relevance.

Position 10 - US Dollar (USD)

Although not the most expensive money currently, it remains the most traded globally. It has lost prestige due to recent crises and inflation but continues to be fundamental in protection portfolios against the devaluation of the real.

Position 11 - UAE Dirham (AED): 1 AED = 0.30 USD

Dubai consolidates its position as an epicenter of cryptocurrencies and fintech.

Position 12 - Singapore Dollar (SGD): 1 SGD = 0.75 USD

Technology and maritime trade drive its growth.

Position 13 - Norwegian Krone (NOK): 1 NOK = 0.11 USD

Clean energy exports attract ESG investments.

Position 14 - Australian Dollar (AUD): 1 AUD = 0.70 USD

Natural resources and Asian integration elevate its value.

Position 15 - Mexican Peso (MXN): 1 MXN = 0.06 USD

Reforms and nearshoring reinforce competitiveness.

Position 16 - Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR): 1 MVR = 0.065 USD

Premium tourism and infrastructure expansion.

Position 17 - Turkish Lira (TRY): 1 TRY = 0.04 USD

Present volatility but opportunities in commodities.

Position 18 - Canadian Dollar (CAD): 1 CAD = 0.78 USD

Oil and mineral exports ensure stability.

Position 19 - Israeli New Shekel (ILS): 1 ILS = 0.28 USD

Startup ecosystem and tech innovation.

Position 20 - Saudi Riyal (SAR): 1 SAR = 0.27 USD

Economic diversification through Vision 2030 reinforces the currency.

What makes a currency expensive and valuable?

The most expensive money in the world is not determined solely by its numerical value. Factors such as controlled inflation, liquidity, macroeconomic stability, exchange rate, and trade balance position make up the complete picture.

In Latin America, the Peruvian Nuevo Sol stands out as a comparatively strong currency against the Brazilian real.

Best currencies to allocate resources in 2025

If you want to start, consider:

Swiss Franc (pairs like AUD/CHF)
Japanese Yen (AUD/JPY)
US Dollar (AUD/USD)
Canadian Dollar (AUD/CAD)
Euro (EUR/USD)

These combinations offer liquidity and moderate volatility for trading and investment.

Step-by-step to invest in international currencies

Step 1: Open an account with a reliable international broker regulated clearly.

Step 2: Research IMF reports and central banks to identify medium-term trends.

Step 3: Build a diversified portfolio combining defensive currencies (CHF, KWD) with growth emerging currencies (MXN, TRY).

Step 4: Monitor geopolitical news, monetary policy decisions, and economic events impacting exchange rates.

Remember: this content is for informational purposes. Consult specialists before allocating resources.

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