More money, more problems: How do currencies work?
Oct 30, 2023
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Exploring Nigeria's currency devaluation, challenges in currency management, and the impact of borrowing money. Plus, a discussion on the basics of currency markets and the factors influencing currency value. Touching on a news story about a footballer's parents being abducted in Colombia.
The decline in Nigeria's currency value is attributed to the existence of two exchange rates and the scarcity of dollars, impacting import prices and reducing purchasing power.
Shortage of new Naira banknotes has hindered access to cash, causing frustrations and economic challenges for Nigerians.
Deep dives
The Fall of Nigeria's Currency: Naira
The Nigerian Naira has experienced a significant decline in value against the US dollar. This decline is primarily due to the existence of two exchange rates in Nigeria: the official rate and the street value determined by the black market. President Bala Mehtinubu's decision to allow the Naira to float freely in the market backfired, leading to a massive drop in its value. The scarcity of dollars in the country and the high demand for them have also contributed to the Naira's decline. This devaluation of the currency has had a detrimental impact on import prices, making imported goods more expensive for Nigerians, and significantly reducing the purchasing power of the Naira for individuals at all socioeconomic levels.
Cash Shortage and Currency Transition
Approximately 40% of Nigeria's population relies on cash due to a lack of access to banking services. However, a shortage of new Naira banknotes has created difficulties for people who need physical cash for their daily expenses. Despite the Supreme Court's order to extend the deadline for returning old notes, some banks refuse to accept them. The scarcity of new banknotes is a result of the government's decision to replace old notes and the insufficient printing capacity in the country. This shortage has significantly impacted Nigerians' ability to access cash for essential purchases, leading to frustrations and economic challenges.
Understanding Currency Markets
Currency markets determine the value of different currencies through factors such as consumer demand and actions taken by central banks. Exchange rates fluctuate based on the balance between supply and demand for a particular currency. An increase in demand strengthens the currency, while a decrease in demand weakens it. Central banks play a crucial role in controlling the money supply and setting interest rates. Changes in currency value can have significant effects on a country's economy, including the cost of imports and exports and overall economic performance. Additionally, currency fluctuations can impact individuals' purchasing power and the profitability of businesses engaged in international trade.
Nigeria’s currency has seen a big drop in value over the last few months. The BBC’s West Africa correspondent, Mayeni Jones, helps us find out why. We also take a wider look at currency in general with our North America Business Correspondent, Erin Delmore. Why do some countries see such big fluctuations? And how on earth do you manage a currency successfully? Hannah gets tested to see if she could make it as the head of a country’s bank.
Plus Liverpool footballer Luis Diaz’s parents were abducted at the weekend. The BBC’s Mimi Swaby talks about Columbia’s kidnapping problem.
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 0330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Hannah Gelbart with Alex Rhodes
Producers: Emily Horler
Editor: Verity Wilde and Simon Peeks
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