Finance

The Euro Reemerges as a Preferred Reserve Currency Amidst Global Shifts

Published March 6, 2024

After years of battling crises and deflationary pressures, the euro is making a strong comeback as a favored reserve currency for central banks worldwide. With interest rates moving back into positive territory and the global geopolitical landscape undergoing significant changes, the euro's appeal is on the rise, challenging the long-standing dominance of the U.S. dollar.

Euro's Growing Appeal in Central Banks' Reserves

Recent data indicates a pivot in sentiment among central banks towards the European currency. A survey conducted by the OMFIF, a London-based think tank, points to an emerging trend: approximately 20% of the 75 central banks surveyed are considering an increase in their euro holdings over the next two years. This is a notable uptick when compared to the sentiments expressed in 2021 and 2022.

These banks, which collectively manage close to $5 trillion in reserves, display a net demand for the euro that surpasses that of any other currency for the upcoming period. While only 7% of the surveyed institutions planned to reduce their euro holdings, the overall net demand paints a positive picture for the future of the euro in the global reserve currency matrix.

Positive Rates and Geopolitical Dynamics

The shift towards the euro is largely attributed to a return to positive interest rates, which enhances its attractiveness as an investment currency. Moreover, the current geopolitical environment is leading to a reevaluation of the reliance on the U.S. dollar. This evolving scenario is contributing to the enhanced status of the euro as a more widely held reserve currency amidst central banks.

As global central banks adjust their foreign exchange reserves in favor of the euro, it's a trend that reflects broader changes in the international financial landscape, where diversification and strategic economic considerations are becoming increasingly pivotal.

Euro, Reserve, Currency