When local currencies weaken rapidly, citizens face mounting pressure on everyday finances. Iran's rial has been experiencing sharp depreciation, compounded by recent policy shifts—the government's removal of subsidized exchange rates for import transactions has already driven a noticeable spike in grocery and consumer goods pricing. As the currency continues its downward slide, policymakers have struggled to deploy swift remedies. This pattern underscores why many in emerging markets increasingly explore alternative stores of value to hedge against currency erosion and preserve purchasing power.