The 20 highest-ranked coins globally in 2025: a guide for Brazilian investors

Many believe that the US dollar is the most expensive currency in the world, but the reality of the international financial market is quite different. There are several currencies with values far exceeding the US dollar, and understanding this dynamic is essential for those looking to diversify their portfolio in 2025.

Why invest in foreign currencies?

For Brazilian investors, allocating capital in international currencies is a strategy to protect against the depreciation of the real and persistent inflation in the country. Currencies with high exchange rates offer:

• Security against exchange rate fluctuations of the real
• Access to developed and expanding economies
• High liquidity in emerging markets with growth potential

The trend of investing in foreign currencies remains strong in 2025, even with the possibility of traditional dollar investments through B3.

The world’s main monetary assets: from Central Asia to the Middle East

Top of the currency hierarchy

The Kuwaiti Dinar leads the global ranking with an approximate rate of 1 KWD = 3.30 USD, supported by robust oil reserves and disciplined fiscal management. Next, the Bahraini Dinar (1 BHD = 2.72 USD) and the Omani Rial (1 OMR = 2.65 USD) solidify their positions through a strong financial sector and investments in sustainable energy.

The Jordanian Dinar (1 JOD = 1.52 USD) also stands out among the region’s dinars, benefiting from strategic geopolitical alliances in the Middle East.

Western reference currencies

The British Pound (1 GBP = 1.35 USD) gradually recovers from post-Brexit uncertainty, driven by technological innovation. The Swiss Franc (1 CHF = 1.12 USD) maintains its status as a safe-haven currency in times of geopolitical instability. The Euro (1 EUR = 1.10 USD) remains relevant with the European Union’s initiatives in digital transformation and energy transition.

It is worth noting the Gibraltar Pound (1 GIP = 1.34 USD), pegged to the British currency and benefiting from the tourism and financial services sector.

US dollar: still essential, but not the most expensive

The USD remains the most traded currency in international transactions, although it has lost its primacy in absolute appreciation. Economic crises and inflationary pressures have reduced its relative strength, but it continues to be fundamental for Brazilian investors seeking currency protection.

Asian and Caribbean emerging currencies

The Singapore Dollar (1 SGD = 0.75 USD) appreciates with technological growth and maritime trade. The Australian Dollar (1 AUD = 0.70 USD) gains importance with commodity exports and Asian trade partnerships. The Canadian Dollar (1 CAD = 0.78 USD) benefits from energy exports. The Cayman Islands Dollar (1 KYD = 1.25 USD) remains attractive as a regulated financial center.

What characterizes the most expensive money in the world in 2025?

The concept of “expensive currency” is not just about its nominal value. Its solidity depends on:

• Stability and strength of the issuing country’s economy
• Controlled inflation levels
• Adequate liquidity in international markets
• Exchange supply and demand dynamics
• Trade balance indicators
• Global macroeconomic influences

Wars, natural disasters, and trade realignments constantly change positions in this ranking. In Latin America, the New Peruvian Sol stands out as the most convertible currency when compared to the Brazilian real.

Expanded ranking: from the Emirates to Saudi Arabia

Currencies of dynamic markets

The UAE Dirham (1 AED = 0.30 USD) strengthens with Dubai’s consolidation as a cryptocurrency and fintech hub. The Mexican Peso (1 MXN = 0.06 USD) benefits from economic reforms and nearshoring trends. The Israeli Shekel (1 ILS = 0.28 USD) grows driven by a startup ecosystem and innovation. The Saudi Riyal (1 SAR = 0.27 USD) moves toward economic diversification through the Vision 2030 initiative.

Nordic and Asia-Pacific currencies

The Norwegian Krone (1 NOK = 0.11 USD) benefits from clean energy exports aligned with ESG criteria. The Maldivian Rufiyaa (1 MVR = 0.065 USD) thrives on luxury tourism and modern infrastructure.

Volatility and opportunities

The Turkish Lira (1 TRY = 0.04 USD), despite its volatility, offers exposure to commodity markets with potential returns.

Strategies for investing in currencies in the current context

Step 1: Choose the right platform

Brazilian investors should opt for international brokerages with a solid reputation and proper regulation. Diversifying across multiple platforms increases operational security.

Step 2: Fundamental analysis

Monitoring IMF reports, central bank decisions, and economic indicators is essential to identify medium-term exchange rate trends.

Step 3: Build a diversified portfolio

A balanced approach combines safe-haven currencies (CHF, KWD) with emerging assets (MXN, TRY), reducing risk concentration.

Step 4: Continuous monitoring

Geopolitical events, monetary policy decisions, and election cycles directly impact exchange rates. Constant attention allows tactical adjustments.

Main currency pairs for trading

Among the most liquid combinations are:

• EUR/USD and GBP/USD for exposure to developed currencies
• AUD/JPY for diversification within Asia-Pacific
• AUD/CAD to explore commodity dynamics
• AUD/CHF for contrast between asset and refuge

Important note: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice. Consult qualified professionals before making financial decisions. Cryptocurrencies are not included in this analysis as it focuses on traditional sovereign currencies linked to nations.

Special opportunity: Register on a trading platform and receive a bonus of up to US$ 100 to try operations with practice capital.