Understanding Currency Exchange Rates

Currency is a fundamental tool we use in our daily trade and transactions. Due to the economic conditions present today, we are required to use the currency of the region we are in and conduct transactions with it. Therefore, understanding currencies and their characteristics is crucial. Due to the economic and cultural differences between countries, significant changes in currency are possible. Countries around the world have different economic strengths and cultural structures. Due to these differences, we can say that all countries have their own unique currencies and use different symbols. However, the question of how a country’s currency is positioned in international trade is of great importance. The acceptance and use of a country’s currency in international markets are important indicators of its value.

It is natural for different countries around the world to have their own currencies specific to their cities. Currencies allow trade and commerce to operate within a country’s borders. However, a country’s currency is also an indicator of the world economy. A country’s currency may hold significant value among other countries around the world. On the other hand, a country’s currency may be significantly less valuable compared to other countries. Currency exchange rates between countries provide an important idea, especially regarding the value of the currency. A currency that is continuously declining in value against widely-used currencies around the world can provide an important idea about the country. If such a problem has occurred recently, it may indicate the presence of an economic crisis or significant problems in the country.

Different Currencies And Exchange Rates

Due to economic differences among countries around the world, the value measures of currencies are quite different. Currencies in the world can be exchanged with each other today. However, their global importance determines the value of currencies. When a currency loses value against another currency, we can talk about a problem specific to that currency. Exchange rates are effective in creating proportional differences between currencies. These rates, which can be expressed as foreign exchange rates, enable the conversion of currencies. Changes in the value of a currency around the world can also cause changes in exchange rates. Many developing or underdeveloped countries today have the least valuable currencies. When going to these countries with currencies such as the dollar or the euro, significant currency exchanges can be made. Especially in developing countries, many people are looking for ways to earn foreign currency due to the gap between exchange rates.

The more different currencies are used globally, the more their value can increase. However, only the intense use of a currency affects its value. At the same time, economic and political policies in the country where this currency is used can be shown as an important factor. Currencies used in developing countries generally lose their value significantly due to inflation. Therefore, currency exchange rates are constantly updated. If the prices of currencies and foreign currencies in a country are experiencing high levels of decline and increase, an important problem can be mentioned. The current economic policies adopted in this country have a negative impact on currency exchange. In addition, the trust of other countries in this country and its currency is also shaken. Therefore, if a country wants to maintain and increase the value of its currency, it can start by developing good economic policies. In addition, it can prevent the devaluation of the current currency by ensuring price stability in the country. When these practices are not carried out, the people of the countries also lose trust in their own currencies. Due to this result, the country’s currency continues to lose value.

What Are The Factors That Affect Currency Value?

Currencies are affected by developments around the world as well as by fundamental policies and production processes within a country. A currency’s value changes due to the political situation and events within the country. Short-term speculative movements can be observed in different currencies around the world. However, long-lasting speculative movements indicate significant policy problems affecting the currency. Factors such as the economic policies adopted by countries, trade and communication between countries, and the risks that countries carry directly affect the currency. Therefore, when evaluating a currency, it is important to consider both global and regional conditions. Here are the factors that affect currency value:

High Inflation

When inflation rises in a country, the overall trend of prices goes up. Due to high inflation, a product that was previously available at a low price may no longer be accessible. You will have to pay more with the existing currency to access that product. As a result of inflation, a country’s currency significantly loses value. Due to the effects of inflation, the price of domestic goods in a country increases. It also reduces its value against foreign currencies. Therefore, finding different solutions for inflation in a country will have a positive effect on the currency.

Interest Rates

Interest rates are a direct factor that affects the value of a currency. Interest fundamentally shows the demand for a currency proportionally. Therefore, a currency with a high interest rate is in a more valuable position against a low currency. High interest rates also mean more profits for many investors. Therefore, as interest rates rise, demand for the currency will also increase in a positive direction. The increase in interest rates is an important factor in the currency gaining value. However, a high interest rate alone does not have enough effect on the currency because inflation, exchange rates, and interest rates are related. As the inflation rate increases in a country, the advantage of holding the currency is significantly reduced.

Current Account Deficits

The current account deficit refers to the balance of trade in goods and services between a country and foreign countries. The current account deficit is included in the balance of payments table, and a high deficit reflects a significant negative impact. When a country experiences a current account deficit, it earns less from exports while making significant imports. The occurrence of a current account deficit also indicates that a country’s foreign exchange spending is high. Therefore, a country experiencing a current account deficit will be in demand for foreign currency, and its currency will lose value.

Public Debts

A country’s high public debt has adverse effects, especially on foreign investments. Moreover, a high level of public debt negatively affects inflation. The government may prefer to print money to pay off public debts. If printing money is preferred, inflation will increase and the current currency will continue to lose value. This situation becomes one of the most important factors affecting the exchange rates.

See you in the next post,

Anil UZUN