Today, Saturday, October 25, 2025, the U.S. dollar holds steady at 490 Cuban pesos (CUP) within Cuba's informal market, based on the daily tracking by elTOQUE.
After witnessing a steady climb in its valuation over several days, the American currency secured this rate on Friday. It remains the most sought-after currency in the nation, serving as the primary benchmark for pricing goods and services amidst relentless inflation that continues to erode the purchasing power of the Cuban populace.
Meanwhile, the euro stands at 540 CUP this Saturday, solidifying its position as the strongest currency circulating in the parallel market. Although it's less frequently used for everyday transactions, its high valuation highlights the persistent devaluation of the Cuban peso against leading global currencies.
In contrast, the MLC (Freely Convertible Currency) stays at 200 CUP, showcasing the dwindling confidence in an economy suffocated by inflation and shortages. The relentless rise in prices continues to severely impact daily life in Cuba.
Understanding Cuba's Informal Exchange Rates
The unofficial exchange rates in Cuba as of Saturday, October 25, 2025, at 07:00 are as follows:
USD to CUP: 490 CUP
EUR to CUP: 540 CUP
MLC to CUP: 200 CUP
Currency Exchange Equivalents in Cuban Pesos
U.S. Dollar (490 CUP):
- $1 = 490 CUP
- $5 = 2,450 CUP
- $10 = 4,900 CUP
- $20 = 9,800 CUP
- $50 = 24,500 CUP
- $100 = 49,000 CUP
Euro (540 CUP):
- €5 = 2,700 CUP
- €10 = 5,400 CUP
- €20 = 10,800 CUP
- €50 = 27,000 CUP
- €100 = 54,000 CUP
- €200 = 108,000 CUP
- €500 = 270,000 CUP
FAQs on Cuba's Black Market Currency Exchange
Why is the U.S. dollar so highly valued in Cuba?
The U.S. dollar is in high demand in Cuba because it serves as a key reference for pricing goods and services, especially given the country's ongoing economic challenges and inflation.
How does the euro's value reflect the Cuban economy?
The euro's strength in the Cuban black market reflects the ongoing depreciation of the Cuban peso against major international currencies, indicating economic instability.