What is the most expensive currency in the world? 20 investment options for 2025

Do you really know which are the strongest currencies on the planet? Many Brazilians believe that only the US dollar, euro, and British pound dominate the international market, but the reality is quite different. There are much more valued currencies circulating in smaller and much more robust economies than we imagine.

The most expensive currency in the world is not the dollar. This is a truth that surprises Brazilian investors accustomed to thinking only of the dollar and euro as references. Investing in foreign currency has become a trend in 2025, especially for those who want to protect their assets against inflation and the devaluation of the real.

Why diversify investments in international currencies?

The Brazilian real faces constant challenges of devaluation and persistent inflation. In this context, investing resources in foreign currencies has become a smart strategy for the modern investor.

Internationally valued currencies offer clear advantages:

• Real protection against real volatility
• Access to developed and emerging economies with high potential
• Genuine diversification of the investment portfolio
• Taking advantage of opportunities in markets with strong liquidity

The trend is that investments in foreign currencies will continue to attract Brazilian capital throughout 2025, especially with global economic uncertainties.

The 20 most valued currencies on the planet in 2025

Based on average quotations against the dollar and recent macroeconomic indicators, here is the complete ranking:

1. Kuwaiti Dinar (KWD) — 1 KWD = 3.30 USD
The most expensive currency in the world maintains this position thanks to enormous oil reserves and extremely conservative fiscal management of the country.

2. Bahraini Dinar (BHD) — 1 BHD = 2.72 USD
The diversified financial sector drives continuous appreciation.

3. Omani Rial (OMR) — 1 OMR = 2.65 USD
Political stability and investments in renewable energy attract external capital.

4. Jordanian Dinar (JOD) — 1 JOD = 1.52 USD
Strategic geopolitical alliances in the Middle East strengthen its demand.

5. British Pound (GBP) — 1 GBP = 1.35 USD
Post-Brexit recovery and technological innovation boost its global demand.

6. Gibraltar Pound (GIP) — 1 GIP = 1.34 USD
Linked to the British pound, benefits from tourism and robust financial services.

7. Cayman Islands Dollar (KYD) — 1 KYD = 1.25 USD
Tax haven status with an attractive regulatory environment for international investors.

8. Swiss Franc (CHF) — 1 CHF = 1.12 USD
Considered a safe haven during periods of global geopolitical instability.

9. Euro (EUR) — 1 EUR = 1.10 USD
The European Union invests heavily in digital transformation and sustainability.

10. US Dollar (USD)
Although no longer the most expensive currency in the world, it remains the most well-known and widely used in international transactions. Its power was once indisputable, but economic crises and inflation in recent years have diminished its previous supremacy. Still, it remains the preferred choice of global investors to hedge against inflation.

11. UAE Dirham (AED) — 1 AED = 0.30 USD
Dubai consolidates itself as the epicenter of cryptocurrencies and fintech.

12. Singapore Dollar (SGD) — 1 SGD = 0.75 USD
Advanced technology and maritime trade drive constant appreciation.

13. Norwegian Krone (NOK) — 1 NOK = 0.11 USD
Clean energy exports attract ESG-focused investments.

14. Australian Dollar (AUD) — 1 AUD = 0.70 USD
Natural resource wealth and Asian trade partnerships increase relevance.

15. Mexican Peso (MXN) — 1 MXN = 0.06 USD
Economic reforms and the nearshoring phenomenon expand its regional strength.

16. Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR) — 1 MVR = 0.065 USD
High-end tourism and investments in tourism infrastructure.

17. Turkish Lira (TRY) — 1 TRY = 0.04 USD
High volatility but offers opportunities in commodities.

18. Canadian Dollar (CAD) — 1 CAD = 0.78 USD
Oil and mineral exports ensure currency stability.

19. Israeli New Shekel (ILS) — 1 ILS = 0.28 USD
Robust tech sector and startup ecosystem drive the economy.

20. Saudi Riyal (SAR) — 1 SAR = 0.27 USD
Vision 2030 plan diversifies revenue sources beyond oil.

What determines if a currency is expensive and valued?

The most expensive currency in the world is not just the one with the highest numerical value relative to the dollar. Deep economic factors determine this classification:

• Controlled inflation: Currencies of countries with low inflation maintain purchasing power
• Available liquidity: The easier it is to trade the currency, the higher its valuation
• Economic stability: Strong institutions and predictable policies attract investors
• Favorable exchange rate: Determined by international supply and demand
• Positive trade balance: Exporting countries have stronger currencies
• External macroeconomic factors: Conflicts, disasters, and political changes impact quotations

In Latin America, the Peruvian Nuevo Sol often surpasses the Brazilian real in valuation, demonstrating that there are interesting regional alternatives.

Better currency options for exchange operations

Brazilian investors find real opportunities in these currency pairs:

• Swiss Franc — AUD/CHF
• Japanese Yen — AUD/JPY
• US Dollar — AUD/USD
• Canadian Dollar — AUD/CAD
• Euro — EUR/USD

Important to note: this article only covers traditional currencies linked to sovereign nations. Digital assets like Bitcoin, although potentially attractive, are outside the scope of this analysis.

Step-by-step to invest in international currencies

Step 1: Open an account on a reliable international exchange platform

Step 2: Study reports from the IMF and central banks to identify macroeconomic trends

Step 3: Implement a diversification strategy combining defensive currencies (CHF, KWD) with higher-risk emerging currencies (MXN, TRY)

Step 4: Constantly monitor global events, as wars, elections, and monetary policies significantly alter quotations

Important notice: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute formal investment advice. Consult a specialist before allocating resources.