Forex
Top 21 Strongest Currencies in the World in 2024
Written by Nathalie Okde
Updated 29 October 2024
Table of Contents
The strongest currency in the world means that it has the highest buying power among all other currencies.
A strong currency can buy more than another currency, whereas a weak one buys less. So, here are the top 21 strongest currencies in the world right now in 2024.
Key Takeaways
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Exchange rates between two currencies determine currency strength.
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Kuwaiti Dinar (KWD) is the strongest currency due to oil wealth.
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The Iranian Rial is the weakest currency in the world due to political instability and imposed sanctions.
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Forex trading involves buying one currency while selling another to profit from its relative strengths.
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Open Your Free AccountWhat Is Currency Strength?
Currency strength refers to the value of one currency compared to another. Think of it as a measure of how much "buying power" one currency has when exchanged for another.
When we say a currency is strong, it means that it can buy more of another currency, giving it more purchasing power. However, a weak currency buys less of another currency, which can lead to higher import costs and reduced buying power internationally.
How Is Foreign Currency Priced?
Foreign currency is priced based on the exchange rate, which represents the value of one currency relative to another. This also represents the currency strength.
For example, the EUR/USD= 1.09. So, 1 Euro buys 1.09 USD, making the Euro stronger than the US dollar.
The primary driver of exchange rate fluctuations is the supply and demand for a currency. If there’s a high demand for a currency, its value rises. On the other hand, if demand decreases or supply increases, its value will fall.
For example, if investors or companies want to buy more Kuwaiti Dinars (KWD) due to Kuwait's oil exports, the demand for KWD will increase, leading to an appreciation of the currency.
What Affects Currency Strength?
Several factors affect currency strength, including economic stability, interest rates, inflation rates, and political stability.
Economic Stability: A strong economy often leads to a strong currency, as investors trust that the currency will maintain or increase its value over time.
Kuwait’s economic stability, largely derived from its vast oil reserves, helps maintain the Kuwaiti Dinar as the strongest currency globally.
Interest Rates: Countries with higher interest rates tend to attract foreign investment, increasing demand for their currency.
For example, the Bahraini Dinar benefits from a stable monetary policy that keeps interest rates competitive, attracting foreign investors to the region.
Inflation Rates: Lower inflation rates typically boost currency strength, as purchasing power remains stable over time.
For example, Switzerland's low inflation rate has consistently supported the strength of the Swiss Franc, making it one of the most stable and preferred currencies during global economic uncertainty.
Political Stability: Stable governments foster investor confidence, making the currency more attractive and thereby increasing its value.
For example, Switzerland and Oman both benefit from stable political environments, which, in turn, protect the value of their respective currencies, the Swiss Franc (CHF) and Omani Rial (OMR).
On the other hand, Iran suffers from major political instability and imposed sanctions making it the weakest currency in the world.
What Are the Top Strongest Currencies in the World in 2024?
Below is a list of the top strongest currencies in the world in 2024:
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Kuwaiti Dinar (KWD)
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Bahraini Dinar (BHD)
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Omani Rial (OMR)
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Jordanian Dinar (JOD)
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British Pound (GBP)
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Gibraltar Pound (GIP)
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Cayman Islands Dollar (KYD)
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Swiss Franc (CHF)
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Euro (EUR)
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United States Dollar (USD)
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Canadian Dollar (CAD)
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Brunei Dollar (BND)
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Singapore Dollar (SGD)
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Australian Dollar (AUD)
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New Zealand Dollar (NZD)
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Hong Kong Dollar (HKD)
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Libyan Dollar (LYD)
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Falkland Islands Pound (FKP)
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Bermudian Dollar (BMD)
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Aruban Florin (AWG)
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Bahamian Dollar (BSD)
1. Strongest Currency in 2024: Kuwaiti Dinar (KWD)
Source: Wikipedia
The Kuwaiti Dinar is currently the world's strongest currency. When writing this article, KWD/USD = 3.26, which shows how strong the dinar is.
The main reason behind this strength is Kuwait’s oil industry, which plays a massive role in fueling the economy. Kuwait sits on one of the largest oil reserves in the world, and with such a small population, the country has a higher per capita income that helps keep the dinar strong.
But there’s more to it than just oil. Kuwait’s government has been smart about how it manages its wealth. Instead of just relying on oil exports, they’ve invested wisely to ensure the country’s long-term financial stability.
With low inflation and solid foreign reserves, they’ve created a strong foundation that keeps the Kuwaiti Dinar firmly at the top of the global currency rankings.
2. Second Strongest Currency in 2024: Bahraini Dinar (BHD)
Source: Wikipedia
The Bahraini Dinar is another top performer, thanks to its strong financial sector and oil exports. For reference, when writing this article, BHD/USD = 2.65.
Bahrain has strategically positioned itself as a financial hub in the Gulf region, attracting significant foreign investment.
Beyond oil, Bahrain’s diversified economy—with banking, tourism, and finance playing key roles—helps maintain the dinar’s strength. The country’s political stability and well-thought-out economic policies also contribute to the high value of the Bahraini Dinar, making it one of the strongest currencies globally.
3. Third Strongest Currency in 2024: Omani Rial (OMR)
Source: Wikipedia
The Omani Rial benefits from Oman’s substantial oil exports and prudent fiscal policies. For reference, when writing this article, OMR/USD = 2.60.
While oil continues to be a cornerstone of Oman’s economy, the government has made significant strides in diversifying its economic base.
Sectors such as tourism, logistics, fisheries, and manufacturing are becoming increasingly important as part of Oman’s long-term plan to reduce its dependency on oil.
Oman's relatively low population helps ensure that the country’s wealth is distributed efficiently, contributing to the Rial's strong position. The government's fiscal discipline, such as careful budgeting and maintaining foreign reserves, plays a critical role in stabilizing the currency.
Despite global market fluctuations, Oman’s focus on economic stability and sustainable growth keeps the Omani Rial highly valued in international markets.
4. Jordan Dinar (JOD)
Source: Wikipedia
The Jordanian Dinar might not come from an oil-rich country, but it’s still one of the strongest currencies globally. For reference, when writing this article, JOD/USD = 1.41.
Jordan has built its currency’s strength through a combination of strategic geographic location and political stability. It sits at the crossroads of Asia, Europe, and Africa, Jordan’s location makes it an attractive hub for trade and logistics, drawing foreign investment and international aid.
Beyond its location, Jordan has diversified its economy, focusing on sectors like tourism, pharmaceuticals, financial services, and information technology, which have helped maintain the value of the dinar.
The government’s sound fiscal management and efforts to control inflation also play a vital role in ensuring currency stability.
5. British Pound (GBP)
Source: Wikipedia
The British Pound, one of the oldest currencies in the world, remains strong due to the United Kingdom’s diversified and advanced economy. For reference, when writing this article, GBP/USD = 1.27.
The UK is home to one of the largest and most influential financial hubs, London, which plays a pivotal role in maintaining the pound’s value.
Despite recent challenges like Brexit, the UK's financial services, education, and manufacturing sectors continue supporting the Pound’s value.
Moreover, the pound's significance in global finance, especially in foreign exchange markets, makes it a widely traded currency. The Bank of England, one of the world’s oldest central banks, implements monetary policies that help stabilize the economy and inflation, ensuring the currency's strength in international markets.
This legacy of stability and global trust ensures that the British Pound remains one of the strongest currencies despite economic pressures.
6. Gibraltar Pound (GIP)
Source: Wikipedia
The Gibraltar Pound pegged at par with the British Pound, derives its strength from Gibraltar’s stable economy. For reference, when writing this article, GIP/USD = 1.27.
Although Gibraltar is a small British Overseas Territory located on the southern tip of Spain, its currency holds significant value thanks to Gibraltar’s stable economy. The GIP is primarily used in Gibraltar, though British Pounds are also accepted.
Gibraltar’s status as a significant financial center, coupled with its strategic location at the entrance to the Mediterranean, contributes to the GIP's stability and value. Additionally, its reputation as a low-tax jurisdiction with a strong financial services sector attracts businesses and foreign investment.
7. Cayman Islands Dollar (KYD)
Source: Wikipedia
The Cayman Islands Dollar is strong due to the island's status as a significant offshore financial center. For reference, when writing this article, KYD/USD = 1.20.
The territory’s favorable tax policies attract a plethora of banks and hedge funds, which helps maintain the high value of the KYD against other currencies.
Aside from finance, tourism is also a key contributor to the Cayman Islands' economy. The territory is a popular destination for tourists, particularly from the United States, and the stable value of the KYD makes it a reliable currency for both tourists and investors.
8. Swiss Franc (CHF)
Source: Wikipedia
The Swiss Franc is known for its stability and safety and is often seen as a "safe haven" currency. For reference, when writing this article, CHF/USD = 1.10.
Switzerland’s economy is characterized by low inflation, low unemployment, and high GDP per capita, which all contribute to the franc’s reliability.
Switzerland’s strong economy, political neutrality, and highly developed banking sector ensure that the Franc remains a preferred currency for investors looking for security during uncertain times.
The Swiss Franc’s strength is also bolstered by Switzerland’s strict monetary policies and conservative financial management. Its banking sector, known for its discretion and stability, attracts global wealth, further enhancing the currency’s value.
9. Euro (EUR)
Source: Wikipedia
The Euro, used by 19 of the European Union’s member countries, is one of the world’s major currencies. For reference, when writing this article, EUR/USD = 1.08.
The economic strength of the Eurozone, which includes powerhouses like Germany and France, underpins the value of the Euro. Its wide acceptance and use in international trade also fuels its strength.
The Euro’s value is underpinned by the collective economic power of the Eurozone, which benefits from highly industrialized and diversified economies.
The European Central Bank (ECB) plays a critical role in maintaining the stability of the Euro, implementing policies that aim to control inflation and foster economic growth across the member states.
Despite facing challenges like varying economic conditions among its members, the Euro remains one of the most trusted and widely used currencies.
10. United States Dollar (USD)
Source: Wikipedia
The United States Dollar is the most widely used currency in the world, benefiting from the vast and diverse US economy.
As the primary reserve currency governments and institutions hold globally, the USD is pivotal in international trade and finance, ensuring its strength and stability.
The US economy, being the largest in the world, drives demand for the dollar, which is used to price many key commodities, including oil and gold.
The strength of the US Dollar is supported by the US Federal Reserve’s monetary policy and the country's vast, diverse economy. The US Dollar dominates global trade and finance, with over 60% of foreign reserves held in USD by central banks.
Its stability, liquidity, and trustworthiness make it the preferred currency for international transactions and investments.
11. Canadian Dollar (CAD)
Source: Wikipedia
The Canadian Dollar is bolstered by Canada’s rich natural resources, especially oil. For reference, when writing this article, CAD/USD = 0.73.
Canada is one of the largest exporters of oil, and the strength of its dollar often correlates with global oil prices. The country’s strong banking system and stable political environment also support the value of the CAD.
In addition to natural resources, Canada maintains strong trade ties with the United States, and the CAD is frequently traded on global markets. Canada’s sound fiscal policies and strong banking system help ensure that the CAD remains a stable and attractive currency for investors and traders.
12. Brunei Dollar (BND)
Source: Wikipedia
The Brunei Dollar benefits from Brunei’s wealth in oil and gas reserves. For reference, when writing this article, BND/USD = 0.74.
The small population and the government’s substantial investment income help maintain the BND's high value. It’s also pegged to the Singapore Dollar, adding to its stability.
13. Singapore Dollar (SGD)
Source: Wikipedia
The Singapore Dollar is strong due to Singapore’s economy and status as a global financial hub. For reference, when writing this article, SGD/USD = 0.74.
The country’s strategic location, stable political environment, and sound economic policies contribute to the SGD’s strength, making it a favored currency in Asia.
The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) employs a unique approach to managing the currency, using a managed float system to ensure stability and avoid extreme fluctuations. This careful oversight, combined with Singapore’s strong fundamentals, keeps the Singapore Dollar consistently strong.
14. Australian Dollar (AUD)
Source: Wikipedia
The Australian Dollar is supported by Australia’s rich natural resources, including minerals and agricultural products. For reference, when writing this article, AUD/USD = 0.66.
These resources make Australia a key exporter in global markets, particularly to countries like China, which is one of Australia’s largest trading partners.
The AUD is one of the most traded currencies in the world, benefiting from the stability of Australia’s economy and its strong trade relationships.
Australia’s stable economy and sound fiscal policies also contribute to the strength of the AUD.
The Reserve Bank of Australia actively manages monetary policy to ensure low inflation and economic stability, making the AUD a popular choice for investors looking for exposure to commodities and the Asia-Pacific region.
15. New Zealand Dollar (NZD)
Source: Wikipedia
The New Zealand Dollar gains strength from the country’s stable economy and significant agricultural exports. For reference, when writing this article, NZD/USD = 0.61.
New Zealand’s political stability and attractive investment environment also maintain the NZD's value.
16. Libyan Dinar (LYD)
Source: Temehu
The Libyan Dinar is relatively strong due to Libya’s substantial oil reserves. For reference, when writing this article, LYD/USD = 0.21.
Despite political instability, the value of the LYD remains supported by the country's oil exports. Efforts to stabilize and rebuild the economy continue influencing the Dinar’s strength.
17. Hong Kong Dollar (HKD)
Source: Wikipedia
The Hong Kong Dollar is bolstered by Hong Kong’s status as a major financial center. For reference, when writing this article, HKD/USD = 0.13.
Pegged to the US Dollar, the HKD benefits from Hong Kong’s robust banking sector, open economy, and strategic location, which ensure its stability and value.
18. Falkland Islands Pound (FKP)
Source: Leftover Currency
The Falkland Islands Pound (FKP) is the official currency of the Falkland Islands, a British Overseas Territory located in the South Atlantic Ocean. Its exchange rate is pegged at par with the British Pound Sterling (GBP), meaning 1 FKP is equivalent to 1.27 USD.
Like the British Pound, the FKP is a strong currency, benefiting from the UK's stable economy and long-standing financial strength. The Falkland Islands issue their own coins and banknotes, but British Pounds are also widely accepted on the islands.
The Falkland Islands' economy is relatively small and relies primarily on fisheries, tourism, and agriculture. The strength of the FKP is indirectly tied to the health of the British economy, as the Falkland Islands depend heavily on imports from the UK.
The currency's stability makes it a reliable medium of exchange for the islanders, who also benefit from the solid backing of the British financial system.
Although the FKP is not frequently traded internationally, its value remains secure thanks to its link with the British Pound.
19. Bermudian Dollar (BMD)
Source: Lacurrency
The Bermudian Dollar (BMD) is the official currency of Bermuda, a British Overseas Territory in the North Atlantic. It has an exchange rate pegged at 1:1 with the US Dollar, meaning 1 BMD = 1.00 USD.
This peg ensures that the Bermudian Dollar remains stable and in line with the value of the US Dollar, which is beneficial for Bermuda’s close economic ties to the United States.
Bermuda also accepts US Dollars as legal tender, making transactions between the two currencies seamless.
Bermuda’s economy is heavily reliant on international business, particularly in insurance and reinsurance, as well as tourism.
The Bermudian Dollar is not widely traded on global currency markets, but its stability allows Bermuda to maintain a favorable environment for both tourists and investors, reinforcing its reputation as a financial hub in the region.
20. Aruban Florin (AWG)
Source: Wikipedia
The Aruban Florin (AWG) is the official currency of Aruba, a small Caribbean island and constituent country of the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
The Aruban Florin is pegged to the US Dollar, with an exchange rate of 1 AWG = 0.56 USD, offering stability for the island’s economy, which heavily depends on tourism from the United States.
Aruba’s central bank carefully manages the peg, ensuring that the florin remains relatively stable compared to fluctuations in global markets.
Aruba’s economy is driven by tourism, hospitality, and some oil refining activities, with most goods and services being imported. The peg to the US Dollar simplifies trade and financial transactions, especially given the large number of US tourists who visit the island each year.
21. Bahamian Dollar (BSD)
Source: Lacurrency
The Bahamian Dollar (BSD) is the official currency of the Bahamas, a nation composed of more than 700 islands in the Caribbean.
Similar to Bermuda, the Bahamian Dollar is pegged 1:1 to the US Dollar, meaning 1 BSD = 1.00 USD.
The Bahamas relies heavily on tourism, particularly from the United States, and the 1:1 peg to the US Dollar makes transactions smooth and convenient for American tourists.
The Bahamas is also a significant offshore financial center, and the stability of the BSD contributes to the country's reputation as a safe place for investment.
Strongest Currencies in 2024 - Summary Table (Rank, Currency, Country, Symbol)
Below is a summary of the strongest currencies in the world in 2024.
Rank |
Currency |
Country |
Symbol |
1 |
Kuwaiti Dinar |
Kuwait |
KWD |
2 |
Bahraini Dinar |
Bahrain |
BHD |
3 |
Omani Rial |
Oman |
OMR |
4 |
Jordanian Dinar |
Jordan |
JOD |
5 |
British Pound |
United Kingdom |
GBP |
6 |
Gibraltar Pound |
Gibraltar |
GIP |
7 |
Cayman Island Dollar |
Cayman Islands |
KYD |
8 |
Swiss Franc |
Switzerland |
CHF |
9 |
Euro |
Eurozone Countries |
EUR |
10 |
United States Dollar |
United States |
USD |
11 |
Canadian Dollar |
Canada |
CAD |
12 |
Brunei Dollar |
Brunei |
BND |
13 |
Singapore Dollar |
Singapore |
SGD |
14 |
Australian Dollar |
Australia |
AUD |
15 |
New Zealand Dollar |
New Zealand |
NZD |
16 |
Hong Kong Dollar |
Hong Kong |
HKD |
17 |
Libyan Dollar |
Libia |
LYD |
18 |
Falkland Island Pound |
Falkland Islands |
FKP |
19 |
Bermudian Dollar |
Bermuda |
BMD |
20 |
Aruban Florin |
Aruba |
AWG |
21 |
Bahamian Dollar |
Bahamas |
BSD |
Trading Currency Pairs
Speaking of the strongest currencies in the world, you can actually trade currencies to profit from their varied strength. Currency trading, also known as forex trading, is the largest financial market in the world, with over $6 trillion traded daily.
Currencies are always traded in pairs, meaning you’re buying one currency and selling another. For instance, when trading the EUR/USD pair, you buy euros while selling US dollars.
The first currency in the pair is the base currency, and the second is the quote currency. The pair’s price tells you how much of the quote currency you need to buy one unit of the base currency.
Moreover, forex trading operates across global exchanges 24 hours a day, five days a week. This round-the-clock activity makes the Forex market dynamic and highly liquid, and it, therefore, holds great profit potential.
Conclusion
The world's strongest currencies, such as the Kuwaiti Dinar, Bahraini Dinar, and Omani Rial, play significant roles in global finance. Solid economies, strategic financial policies, and, in many cases, substantial natural resources like oil often fuel their strength.
Understanding these currencies and the factors contributing to their strength provides valuable insights into global economic dynamics. Moreover, as mentioned above, you can trade these currencies for potential profit.
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Table of Contents
FAQs
The strongest currency in the world is the Kuwaiti Dinar (KWD). Its high value is primarily due to Kuwait's vast oil reserves, which generate significant revenue.
The high value of the Kuwaiti Dinar is primarily attributed to Kuwait's substantial oil reserves and the revenue they generate. Additionally, Kuwait has a relatively small population and a well-managed economy, which helps maintain the Dinar's strong value against other currencies.
The weakest currency in the world is the Iranian Rial (IRR). Iran's currency struggles are due to severe economic sanctions, high inflation, and political instability, which combine to keep the value of rials extremely low compared to other global currencies.
The IRR/USD exchange rate is 0.000024, which is extremely low. You’d need 42,225 Iranian Rial to buy just one dollar.
The most stable currency is the Swiss Franc (CHF). Switzerland's political neutrality, robust economy, and highly developed banking sector make the Franc a "safe haven" currency. Investors navigate towards it during global economic uncertainties, maintaining its stability and reliability.
The Swiss franc (CHF) is often considered the safest currency in the world. Its reputation for stability and reliability makes it a preferred choice for investors during global economic uncertainty.
The most commonly traded currencies are the US Dollar (USD), the Euro (EUR), and the Japanese Yen (JPY). The US Dollar dominates global trade and finance, while the Euro is widely used across Europe and in international transactions. The Japanese Yen is also highly traded due to Japan's significant role in global trade.
Other frequently traded currencies include the British Pound (GBP), the Australian Dollar (AUD), and the Swiss Franc (CHF).
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