The 20 most traded international currencies in 2025: A guide to diversify assets

Many Brazilian investors believe that the US dollar is the most valuable foreign exchange asset on the planet. This perception, although understandable, does not reflect the current reality of international markets. The truth is that there are several more valued and expensive currencies that surpass the greenback in strength and performance. Knowing these alternatives is essential for those looking to strengthen their portfolio in 2025.

Why diversify into foreign currencies?

Investing in currency assets is a smart strategy to protect wealth against the devaluation of the real and the effects of persistent inflation in Brazil. The continuous fluctuations of the Brazilian foreign exchange market make it imperative to seek refuge in currencies from solid and resilient economies.

The benefits of this investment modality include:

• Currency protection: Reduces exposure to real depreciation risks
• Access to stable economies: Allows participation in the growth of developed nations
• International liquidity: Facilitates transactions in dynamic emerging markets
• Strategic diversification: Complements other investments in the portfolio

The 20 most valued currencies in 2025

The ranking below considers the average quotation against the US dollar and recent economic indicators of each country:

1. Kuwaiti Dinar (KWD)
Quotation: 1 KWD = 3.30 USD

The Kuwaiti Dinar remains at the top of the global ranking of expensive currencies. This is due to the country’s vast oil reserves and the implementation of highly conservative fiscal policies that keep the currency extremely valued.

2. Bahraini Dinar (BHD)
Quotation: 1 BHD = 2.72 USD

The island’s diversified financial sector drives the strength of its currency, consolidating its position as the second most expensive currency in the world. Bahrain leveraged its strategic location to expand banking and investment operations.

3. Omani Rial (OMR)
Quotation: 1 OMR = 2.65 USD

Oman’s political stability attracts ongoing investments, especially in renewable energy sectors. This foreign confidence systematically strengthens the local currency.

4. Jordanian Dinar (JOD)
Quotation: 1 JOD = 1.52 USD

Jordan’s strategic alliances in the Middle East region consolidate the strength and credibility of its currency in international markets.

5. British Pound (GBP)
Quotation: 1 GBP = 1.35 USD

After Brexit, the UK recovered well, especially with the dynamism of the technology sector. Demand for British assets remains robust among global investors.

6. Gibraltar Pound (GIP)
Quotation: 1 GIP = 1.34 USD

Linked to the British currency, the Gibraltar pound benefits from international tourism and developed financial services in the region to maintain its valuation.

7. Cayman Islands Dollar (KYD)
Quotation: 1 KYD = 1.25 USD

The favorable regulatory environment for international financial operations and the offshore hub status consolidate the strength of this currency.

8. Swiss Franc (CHF)
Quotation: 1 CHF = 1.12 USD

During periods of geopolitical turbulence and economic uncertainty, the Swiss franc remains the preferred safe haven for global institutional investors.

9. Euro (EUR)
Quotation: 1 EUR = 1.10 USD

The European Union continues to heavily invest in digital transformation and environmental sustainability, maintaining the euro as a trusted asset for international investors.

10. US Dollar (USD)

Although it is no longer the most expensive currency in the world, the dollar remains the most recognized and widely used in international transactions. Its loss of primacy occurred due to recent inflation challenges but it remains fundamental in global financial markets.

11. UAE Dirham (AED)
Quotation: 1 AED = 0.30 USD

Dubai solidifies its position as an innovation epicenter in cryptocurrencies and financial technology, increasing demand for the Emirati dirham.

12. Singapore Dollar (SGD)
Quotation: 1 SGD = 0.75 USD

The robust technology sector and Singapore’s importance in Asian maritime trade sustain the continuous appreciation of this currency.

13. Norwegian Krone (NOK)
Quotation: 1 NOK = 0.11 USD

Exports of clean energy and ESG (environmental, social, and governance) investments attract capital from globally conscious funds.

14. Australian Dollar (AUD)
Quotation: 1 AUD = 0.70 USD

Natural resources and deepened trade partnerships with Asian countries continually elevate the relevance of the Australian dollar in markets.

15. Mexican Peso (MXN)
Quotation: 1 MXN = 0.06 USD

Implemented economic reforms and the growing trend of nearshoring to North America significantly strengthen the Mexican peso.

16. Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR)
Quotation: 1 MVR = 0.065 USD

The luxury tourism sector and ongoing infrastructure investments support demand for the archipelago’s currency.

17. Turkish Lira (TRY)
Quotation: 1 TRY = 0.04 USD

Despite characteristic volatility, Turkey offers interesting opportunities in commodities and emerging markets for aggressive investors.

18. Canadian Dollar (CAD)
Quotation: 1 CAD = 0.78 USD

Robust exports of oil and minerals ensure continuous stability for the Canadian currency.

19. Israeli New Shekel (ILS)
Quotation: 1 ILS = 0.28 USD

The world-class technology and startup ecosystem boost the economy and value the country’s currency.

20. Saudi Riyal (SAR)
Quotation: 1 SAR = 0.27 USD

The Vision 2030 project aims to diversify revenue sources beyond oil, strengthening long-term economic prospects.

What makes a currency expensive and valued?

The most valued currency in the world in 2025 remains the Kuwaiti Dinar. But what truly determines this classification? Several fundamental economic factors influence:

• Controlled inflation: Countries with low inflation maintain more valued currencies
• Market liquidity: Ease of trading affects currency value
• Macroeconomic stability: Strong institutions and consistent policies
• Exchange rate: Determined by international supply and demand
• Trade balance: Trade surpluses strengthen currencies
• External geopolitical factors: Conflicts, alliances, and trade agreements

Within the Latin American context, the new Peruvian Sol often ranks among the strongest currencies in the region, frequently surpassing the Brazilian real in exchange parity.

Which currencies offer the best investment opportunities?

Among the top 20 global currencies, the following are interesting options for Brazilian investors:

• Swiss Franc (CHF)
• Japanese Yen (JPY)
• US Dollar (USD)
• Canadian Dollar (CAD)
• Euro (EUR)

These combine safety, high liquidity, and potential appreciation or currency protection. It is important to note that this article exclusively addresses traditional country-linked currencies, not digital assets.

How to start investing in foreign currencies in 2025?

Investing in international currencies is accessible to Brazilian investors through specialized brokers. The process is relatively simple:

1. Open an account with a licensed financial institution: Look for established and regulated international brokerages
2. Study economic reports: Follow IMF publications and central banks to identify exchange trends
3. Implement diversification: Combine defensive currencies like the Swiss franc and Kuwaiti Dinar with opportunities in emerging currencies
4. Monitor global events: Wars, elections, and changes in monetary policies directly impact exchange markets

Important notice: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice or recommendations. Always consult a financial expert before making investment decisions.