
Which Is the Cheapest Currency in the World? – The Top 10
The cheapest currency to date is the Lebanese pound, followed by the Iranian rial. Discover other weak currencies worldwide in our top 10.

Nobody likes to see their money lose value overnight, but it often happens—especially in Latin America. However, in some countries, a currency maintains its purchasing power over time without sharp variations, and that’s what we call a stable currency.
So, which is the most stable currency in the world today?
The direct answer is: the Swiss franc. This is the legal tender of Switzerland and Liechtenstein, and it is also used in certain areas of Europe. For example, you can use it in Campione d’Italia, a small Italian enclave, or in Büsingen am Hochrhein in Germany.
Now, if you’re wondering why is it the most stable? — the reasons are explained in this article. You’ll also find out about other currencies that fall into this category and how they differ from other strong currencies.
The Most Stable Currencies in the World | |
Currency | Reason |
Swiss franc | Safe haven, low inflation, and institutional stability |
Japanese yen | International liquidity and low inflation |
Norwegian krone | No net debt and backed by energy resources |
Euro | Second global reserve currency and wide acceptance |
Singapore dollar | Disciplined monetary policy and strong regional confidence |
A stable currency is one that preserves its value over time, inspiring confidence in locals, investors, and markets.
Why is the Swiss franc the most stable currency?
The Swiss franc is synonymous with stability due to its:
Historically low inflation.
Strong financial system.
Sound monetary and economic policy.
But to go into detail, here are the two main reasons, according to the Swiss National Bank (SNB):
Inflation in Switzerland has remained low for years within a reliable political environment. This has allowed interest rates to stay below those of other economies.
As a result, the franc becomes even more attractive compared to other currencies.
In times of global uncertainty, the franc appreciates significantly and is viewed as a safe haven. During critical moments, many investors choose it even when returns are lower—because they value the security it provides.
In general, it’s considered a refuge currency thanks to its history of low inflation and prudent monetary policy. That’s why in times of global instability, the CHF stands out for preserving purchasing power.
Extra fact: the currency was backed by gold until May 2000.
Although the Swiss franc is positioned as the most stable currency in the world, it’s not the only one.
Here’s a list of currencies that also rank high in terms of stability:
Japan is known for low inflation, although in recent years it has exceeded 2% in some periods. Even so, the JPY remains the third most traded currency in the world and one of Asia’s most important.
Norway holds one of the world’s strongest sovereign wealth funds thanks to its oil reserves, and it maintains a privileged fiscal position.
A distinctive trait of the country is that it has no net debt. However, there’s a major downside: the NOK is highly sensitive to oil prices and can show significant volatility.
Sweden’s solid institutions and prudent monetary policy place its currency on this list. That said, the krona has experienced episodes of weakness in recent years.
Essentially, its stability depends more on the international context than on absolute strength.
The euro is a global reserve currency and the second most used after the US dollar. The eurozone’s economic weight and its role in global trade are what keep it among the most stable currencies.
In Singapore, monetary policy is managed through the exchange rate. Additionally, the central bank implements macroprudential measures that strengthen regional confidence.
That’s why the SGD has built a solid reputation in emerging markets, becoming one of Asia’s most stable currencies.
The world’s most stable currency isn’t necessarily the strongest, and vice versa. Some currencies stand out more for their high nominal value, others for their historical weight or influence in international markets.
An example is the world’s most expensive currency (Kuwaiti dinar). It isn’t the most widely used or the most stable, but it holds the highest nominal value against the dollar.
Meanwhile, the US dollar isn’t the most stable currency in terms of inflation. However, it’s still considered a safe currency for investment because of its liquidity and global influence.
So, we can classify them as follows:
Currencies with high nominal value | Currencies with historical and global weight |
Kuwaiti dinar (KWD). Bahraini dinar (BHD). Omani rial (OMR). Jordanian dinar (JOD). | US dollar (USD). British pound sterling (GBP). French franc (FRF). Chinese yuan (CNY). |
In Latin America, on the other hand, Mexico's currency has historical significance. For example, in 2022, it ranked 16th among the most traded emerging currencies worldwide, according to Banxico. Even so, it is neither the most expensive nor the most stable.
A currency’s stability depends on a combination of factors such as:
Strong institutions, policies, and banking systems that reduce uncertainty and build trust. Examples include Switzerland, the United States, and Japan.
Credible monetary policies that keep price stability and inflation under control.
Backing by safe assets, such as gold reserves, that strengthen confidence.
International use. The greater the acceptance in trade, investment, and global reserves, the more stable the currency.
The combination of these factors is key for a currency to be a benchmark of security. When these conditions are missing, many end up being among the world’s cheapest currencies.
The Swiss franc has managed to remain the world’s most stable currency for quite some time. But the Japanese yen, the euro, the Singapore dollar, and the Norwegian and Swedish krona are not far behind.
Still, this could change at any moment. Especially since a currency’s exchange rate against the dollar and its relationship with natural resources are factors that create volatility.
Ultimately, it is each country's economic and monetary strength that gives weight to its reliability. And that logic applies to currencies in Africa, Asia, Europe, and other regions of the world.
That said, the euro and the US dollar remain pillars of the global financial system. That’s why at DolarApp we offer you the possibility of creating an account that gives you access to these currencies in digital form.
With DolarApp, you can manage digital dollars and euros (USDc/EURc) to make transactions without issues. This includes sending, receiving, or converting balances between different currencies at a favorable exchange rate.
The app is available in Mexico, Colombia, Argentina, and Brazil.
The Swiss franc (CHF) is recognized as a safe-haven currency in times of crisis. Its low inflation, political stability, and the credibility of the Swiss National Bank make it the preferred currency for investors.
Not necessarily. A currency may be strong due to its high nominal value or historical importance, but not stable. Stability depends on a set of combined factors.
The high nominal value of currencies like the Kuwaiti dinar comes from its link to commodities and rigid exchange regimes. However, real stability is achieved through credible economic policies and a solid, reliable financial system.
Sources:
The world has borders. Your finances don’t have to.
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