20 Highest Currencies in the World (+ Why They’re Strong)

For the longest time, I just assumed the US Dollar was the strongest currency on the planet. I was genuinely shocked when I found out that it’s not even in the top five. My mind was blown, so I went down a rabbit hole to figure out which currencies are stronger, and this is what I found.

The world’s highest currencies include the Kuwaiti Dinar, Bahraini Dinar, Omani Rial, Jordanian Dinar, Gibraltar Pound, British Pound, Falkland Islands Pound, Swiss Franc, Cayman Islands Dollar, Euro and US Dollar. Pegging against strong currencies and controlled monetary policies make currencies strong.

Wondering why the US Dollar (arguably the most powerful currency) isn’t in the top 5? Or what makes the Kuwaiti Dinar worth more than 3 USD? Each of these currencies has its own story, so let’s take a look.

What 1 Unit of These Currencies Gets You in INR

Not Just Dollars: Meet the World’s Most Valuable Currencies

1. Kuwaiti Dinar

1 KWD ≈ ₹290.08

The Kuwaiti Dinar is ranked as the highest currency in the world. It’s not only just oil money (although this does significantly contribute), as Kuwait has one of the largest oil reserves in the world and also exports very large amounts of oil.

What makes the Kuwaiti Dinar really strong, though, is its peg to a basket of currencies, and not only the US Dollar. This offers it much greater flexibility and stability in international markets. Then there is low inflation and a strong sovereign wealth fund, due to which the currency is hard to beat.

2. Bahraini Dinar (BHD)

1 BHD ≈ ₹235.24

While Bahrain may be a small island country, its currency is certainly not small. The Bahraini Dinar is quite stable because it is pegged to the US Dollar at a fixed rate.

Not only this, but Bahrain has established itself as a regional financial hub. The country’s monetary policies support maintaining a relatively tight monetary environment with currency controls to protect the value of the dinar. As a result, the Bahraini Dinar is one of the few currencies that has held its value over time.

3. Omani Rial (OMR)

1 OMR ≈ ₹230.60

The Omani Rial is another ultra-strong Middle Eastern currency. Like Bahrain, Oman pegs its currency to the US Dollar at a high fixed rate, which significantly boosts its value.

What keeps the Rial so strong? Oman’s economy is heavily reliant on petroleum, but the country also takes a conservative approach to fiscal spending and currency management. Combine that with a relatively small population and low inflation, and you get a currency that rarely budges in value.

4. Jordanian Dinar (JOD)

1 JOD ≈ ₹125.10

Jordan doesn’t have the kind of oil wealth as other high-value currencies, yet its dinar is stronger than other major currencies like the Euro. That’s mainly because Jordan pegs its currency to the USD at a stable rate, which supports its value.

The Jordanian central bank maintains this peg through disciplined monetary policy and currency reserves. Despite being an aid-dependent economy with limited exports, the currency has remained remarkably steady, which surprises many people.

5. British Pound Sterling (GBP)

1 GBP ≈ ₹118.44

The British Pound Sterling is the oldest currency in the world still in existence, and has been a great representation of economic strength. Although it is not the highest-exchanging currency, it consistently appears in the top 10, thanks to the United Kingdom’s influence on a global scale.

London still remains one of the largest financial centres in the world, and GBP is heavily traded in the foreign exchange market. Regardless of recent economic fluctuations from events like Brexit, the GBP continues to remain resilient due to the UK’s diverse economy and great monetary policy and governance.

6. Gibraltar Pound (GIP)

1 GIP ≈ ₹118.44

Gibraltar has its own pound, and they have pegged theirs to the British Pound Sterling (GBP) at par. In other words, 1 GIP = 1 GBP. Since the GBP is always one of the strongest currencies in the world, the GIP moves along with it.

Gibraltar is also strategically located at the southern entrance to the European continent, making it a key port and financial centre. While small, Gibraltar has strong economic ties to the UK and is highly controlled with respect to its monetary system, which contributes to its strength and stability.

7. Falkland Islands Pound (FKP)

1 FKP ≈ ₹118.42

The currency from one of the most isolated British territories in the South Atlantic, the Falkland Islands Pound (FKP), has a higher value against the Indian Rupee (INR) than one would expect.

The FKP is pegged 1:1 with the British Pound (GBP). Since GBP is one of the strongest global currencies, FKP shares its strength by default. That is why, even though it is used in a tiny region, the FKP has a high value when compared to the INR.

8. Swiss Franc (CHF)

1 CHF ≈ ₹110.96

Known for its precision and neutrality, the Swiss Franc reflects the strength of Switzerland’s economy. The combination of low inflation, a stable political environment, a strong export-oriented economy, and conservative financial policies has resulted in the CHF’s high currency value.

Switzerland is known to be a hub for banking and finance, and the Swiss National Bank always takes a very cautious monetary stance. The currency is also seen as a safe-haven currency by investors during times of global uncertainty, which significantly boosts its value and demand.

9. Cayman Islands Dollar (KYD)

1 KYD ≈ ₹105.81

The presence of the Cayman Islands Dollar in this list may surprise you, but its high value is tied to the country’s status as a tax haven and offshore financial centre. The KYD is pegged to the US Dollar, which helps maintain its stability and strength.

With over 600 banks and trust companies operating within its jurisdiction, the Cayman Islands enjoys a wealthy influx of foreign capital. This steady demand and controlled monetary policy have helped keep the KYD one of the highest-valued currencies globally.

10. Euro (EUR)

1 EUR ≈ ₹103.58

After the US Dollar, the Euro is the second most traded currency globally and is used by 20 of the 27 EU member states. It was introduced in 1999 and has simplified trade and travel within Europe since then, and has become a brand symbol representing Europe’s unity and economic power.

The Euro’s strength stems from the economic output of the Eurozone (Germany, France, Italy, and Spain collectively make up a large portion of the Eurozone’s economic output). While it has faced challenges like the Greek debt crisis and inflation shocks, the currency is still going strong due to the system enforced by the European Central Bank.

11. United States Dollar (USD)

1 USD ≈ ₹88.67

The United States Dollar (USD) may not have the highest exchange value compared to others, but it is certainly the most powerful and used currency internationally. USD is the global reserve currency, which is what many countries around the world are using as a backup to run their economies.

Oil, gold and nearly every major international trade are denominated in USD. The strength of the US dollar is derived from the size of the US economy, the strength of its financial markets, and confidence in the government and institutions. While it is not as “expensive” as others on this list, its influence is paramount, which is why many people think it is the world’s most valuable currency. 

12. Singapore Dollar (SGD)

1 SGD ≈ ₹68.61

Singapore is a small country, but it has a great economy. The Singapore Dollar is valuable for many reasons; it has a strong financial industry, very high export revenues, especially in electronics, chemicals, and services and a stable political environment.

Singapore’s central bank actively manages the currency to maintain competitiveness while keeping inflation low. The country’s smart fiscal policies, strong international trade agreements, and reputation as a global business hub make the SGD one of the top-performing currencies in Asia.

13. Brunei Dollar (BND)

1 BND ≈ ₹68.41

The Brunei Dollar, which is a relatively unrecognisable currency for many of us, is surprisingly strong. The Brunei Dollar is pegged to the Singapore Dollar at a rate of 1:1, and both currencies are accepted in either country. Brunei is also wealthy due to its significant oil and gas reserves.

Brunei has one of the highest per capita GDPs in the world. It offers free education, free healthcare, and even subsidised housing for its residents. The government has very low debt and follows a conservative monetary policy that allows its currency to stay strong against other currencies internationally.

14. Canadian Dollar (CAD)

1 CAD ≈ ₹63.65

The Canadian Dollar, known as a “Loonie,” is another widely traded currency worldwide. Its value is largely dependent on the natural resources the country exports, especially oil, lumber, and minerals. As one of the largest oil exporters globally, Canada benefits when global oil prices are high, which tends to strengthen the CAD.

The Bank of Canada implements a strict monetary policy to keep inflation and interest rates under control. Canada also benefits from having a very strong banking system, minimal levels of corruption, and strong trade ties to the US (its largest trading partner). Investors also consider CAD a “commodity currency,” and its performance often mirrors trends in the global commodities market.

15. Australian Dollar (AUD)

1 AUD ≈ ₹58.02

The Australian Dollar is one of the most traded currencies globally, known for its relative stability and high interest rates compared to other developed nations. Australia’s economy is driven by natural resources (think gold, iron ore, coal, and natural gas), and its strong trade relationships with countries like China and Japan strengthen the AUD’s value.

Additionally, what adds to the AUD’s global appeal is Australia’s AAA credit rating and a politically stable environment. For investors, the AUD is generally considered a “commodity currency”, which means that when the global demand for raw materials rises, the value of the AUD will increase, too. 

16. Bosnia & Herzegovina Convertible Mark (BAM)

1 BAM ≈ ₹52.93

The BAM may not be the currency making headlines, but don’t let that fool you. What gives it that edge? It is pegged to the Euro at a fixed rate, which gives it a relatively stable monetary position you wouldn’t generally find in a post-conflict economy.

While Bosnia & Herzegovina is still on the economic growth path, its BAM currency remains stable due to it being backed by the Euro, making it stronger than most would expect and worth a mention on this list.

17. Bulgarian Lev (BGN)

1 BGN ≈ ₹52.93

It may again seem weird to find the Bulgarian Lev among the top 20 highest currencies, but it also maintains strength because it is pegged to the Euro. Bulgaria is even working towards joining the Eurozone, so it may become even more stable.

The macroeconomic policies providing stability and the very low public debt are also contributing to the Lev holding its value. Although Bulgaria is not one of the wealthier countries in Europe, the fixed exchange rate system and strict monetary control through its currency board management provide stability.

18. Azerbaijani Manat (AZN)

1 AZN ≈ ₹52.19

The Azerbaijani Manat stands stronger than many expect. It owes much of its strength to the country’s robust oil and gas exports, which bring in significant foreign reserves. But it’s not just oil.

The Central Bank of Azerbaijan maintains tight control over the currency, ensuring it doesn’t fluctuate wildly. Combine that with relatively low inflation and stable macroeconomic policies, and you’ve got a currency that holds its ground in global rankings.

19. New Zealand Dollar (NZD)

1 NZD ≈ ₹51.16

Often called the “Kiwi,” the New Zealand Dollar is strong due to the country’s stable economy, low inflation, and consistent growth in sectors like agriculture, tourism, and renewable energy. Like the Australian currency, NZD is also affected by commodity markets and international demand, especially for dairy products.

As well, New Zealand’s clean energy initiatives and advances in technology have helped to maintain confidence in the dollar from an investor’s standpoint. The NZD might not be as strong as the AUD; however, it is still among the stronger currencies when compared to the Indian Rupee.

20. Aruban Florin (AWG)

1 AWG ≈ ₹42.29

The Aruban Florin holds a surprisingly high exchange rate. One key reason? It’s pegged to the US Dollar at a fixed rate of 1 USD = 1.80 AWG, which lends it long-term stability.

Moreover, Aruba’s economy thrives on high-end tourism, and the influx of USD keeps Florin strong. The government also follows conservative fiscal practices to maintain the peg, helping AWG remain one of the stronger currencies in the Caribbean region.

Why High Currency Value ≠ Rich Country Always

Most people will instinctively think that the countries with the most powerful currencies are also the wealthiest. For example, if one Kuwaiti Dinar is worth over ₹270, everyone would assume that Kuwait is wealthier than the US or Japan, right? Well… not exactly.

A high exchange rate does not automatically equate to high GDP, higher living standards, and higher economic power generally. In fact, some of the world’s largest economies, like Japan, China, or South Korea, have currencies that are very low in value when compared to the Indian Rupee.

Let’s break down why that happens:

1. Currency Pegging & Fixed Rates

The currencies of countries like Kuwait, Bahrain, and Oman are pegged to a basket of stable currencies such as the USD or IMF SDRs. They maintain a very limited level of currency in circulation, and this in itself will enhance its value.

The currencies of these countries aren’t being floated in the open market like the US dollar or the Euro. The value of the currency is carefully monitored by its central banks. The result is a super-strong exchange rate, but not necessarily a successfully booming and diversified economy.

2. Global Economic Role Matters

Take the Japanese Yen or Chinese Yuan, for example. They may be valued “low” (₹0.58 and ₹12.10), but these are currencies of huge global economies.

Japan is the 3rd largest economy in the world. China is the 2nd largest economy. Yet their currency values are lower because they’re designed for massive export trade, liquidity, and global competitiveness.

3. High Currency = Less Volatility, Not More Wealth

In countries with strong currencies, the focus is usually on stability and low inflation, not necessarily high income. For instance, the Omani Rial is one of the strongest currencies, but Oman doesn’t rank anywhere near the top in terms of GDP or economic size.

Meanwhile, countries like Germany or the US have much more dynamic economies, even though their currency value may seem lower in comparison.

How These Rates Impact You as an Indian Traveller or Student

The moment you land abroad, your INR is at the mercy of the local currency. Whether you’re vacationing or studying, exchange rates shape your real costs in ways most people overlook.

1. Your Budget Isn’t What You Think It Is

When a country’s currency is stronger than the INR, even basic expenses like rent, groceries, and transport feel heavier on your wallet. What looks like a ₹10 lakh budget on paper could feel like much less in a country with a steep INR conversion.

2. Tuition Fee Transfers Hit Harder

Tuition fees are often paid in foreign currency. So, if the exchange rate changes by just ₹1, say, from ₹85 to ₹86 per USD, then your cost goes up significantly. For a ₹20 lakh transfer, that ₹1 difference means paying ₹20,000 more.

3. Hidden Charges Amplify the Gap

It’s not just the rate you see online. Add markup fees, surcharges, and poor conversion practices, and you’re losing more INR per transaction, especially with traditional banks that aren’t built for forex use. Hence, use a reliable and cost-effective platform for currency exchange.

4. Low-Value Currencies Can Mislead Too

A weak currency like JPY or IDR doesn’t always mean the destination is “cheap.” Daily costs may still be high in real terms. For instance, Japan has a weaker currency but a strong economy, which means high service and living costs.

5. Travel Shopping & Experiences? Rate Matters Here Too

Whether it’s shopping in Europe or trying out adventures in New Zealand, a small change in rates affects how far your money goes. That ₹5000 souvenir might cost you ₹500 to ₹1000 more just because you bought it on a “bad currency day.”