Unexpected shifts are taking place in the informal market! Despite many dismissing it as obsolete, the Moneda Libremente Convertible (MLC) is making a comeback.
In recent hours, the MLC, a controversial economic creation of the Cuban regime often thought to be on the brink of extinction, has seen a rise in its value, as reported by the independent outlet elTOQUE.
The MLC has climbed to 250 CUP, marking an increase of ten pesos from the previous day's rate.
Over the past few days, the MLC has experienced a series of consecutive increases, sparking questions about its future and challenging the assumption that it is nearing its end.
On the other hand, the dollar and the euro show no fluctuations today: the U.S. dollar is being sold at 440 CUP, while the European currency is priced at 480 CUP.
Exchange rates as of November 27, 2025 - 6:30 a.m. in Cuba:
- USD to CUP rate per elTOQUE: 440 CUP
- EUR to CUP rate per elTOQUE: 480 CUP
- MLC to CUP rate per elTOQUE: 250 CUP
Resilience Amid Uncertainty: The MLC's Unpredictable Journey
In recent times, the MLC has faced a period of uncertainty characterized by a consistent decline in its value in the informal market.
Throughout the majority of 2025, its value dropped significantly against the Cuban peso, driven by a loss of public confidence, the increased use of cash dollars, and the scarcity of products in state-run MLC stores.
These factors fueled persistent rumors about its imminent disappearance as a relevant payment method in Cuba's economy.
Yet, despite these warnings, the MLC has not vanished. Instead, it has shown remarkable resilience.
Recently, its value in the informal market has surged again. This surge is unexpected in a context where the dollar and euro still dominate informal buying and selling transactions.
This increase can be attributed to several factors: the limited availability of cash dollars, the necessity to access specific products only available in MLC stores, and a seasonal or situational demand that has driven its use.
Moreover, while retreating, the MLC payment infrastructure remains active: many bank cards still hold balances in this currency, and some businesses continue to accept it.
Thus, the MLC stands as an ambiguous monetary instrument: declining, yet still functional; questioned, yet not completely replaced.
Its recent evolution highlights the complexity of the current Cuban economy, where no currency seems stable, and even those presumed dead can resurface with unexpected vigor.
Currency Conversion: USD and EUR to CUP
Conversion rates of U.S. Dollar (USD) to Cuban Peso (CUP), based on exchange rates as of November 27:
- 1 USD = 440 CUP
- 5 USD = 2,200 CUP
- 10 USD = 4,400 CUP
- 20 USD = 8,800 CUP
- 50 USD = 22,000 CUP
- 100 USD = 44,000 CUP
Conversion rates of Euros (EUR) to Cuban Peso (CUP):
- 1 EUR = 480 CUP
- 5 EUR = 2,400 CUP
- 10 EUR = 4,800 CUP
- 20 EUR = 9,600 CUP
- 50 EUR = 24,000 CUP
- 100 EUR = 48,000 CUP
- 200 EUR = 96,000 CUP
- 500 EUR = 240,000 CUP
Understanding the MLC's Role in Cuba's Economy
Why has the MLC's value increased recently?
The MLC's recent value increase can be attributed to limited dollar availability, demand for products sold only in MLC stores, and specific situational demands.
What are the current exchange rates for the dollar and euro in Cuba?
As of November 27, 2025, the USD is exchanged at 440 CUP, and the EUR is exchanged at 480 CUP.
Is the MLC still a viable currency in Cuba?
Despite uncertainties, the MLC remains functional, with active payment infrastructure and businesses that continue to accept it.