On Saturday, Cuba's informal currency market shows no significant shifts in major foreign currencies, presenting a stark contrast to the mounting political and geopolitical pressure on the Cuban regime. While monetary calm prevails, international tensions are on the rise.
According to the independent monitoring group elTOQUE, the exchange rate for the U.S. dollar (USD) remains steady at 490 Cuban pesos (CUP), while the euro (EUR) holds its ground at 530 CUP, maintaining its position as the strongest currency in the informal circuit.
The Freely Convertible Currency (MLC) shows a slight uptick, now valued at 410 CUP, marking a two-peso increase from the previous day.
Informal Exchange Rates in Cuba
Saturday, January 24, 2026 - 05:22 AM
Exchange Rate: USD to CUP: 490 CUP
Exchange Rate: EUR to CUP: 530 CUP
Exchange Rate: MLC to CUP: 410 CUP
This period of stability comes amid a worsening international climate for Havana. Recently, the American publication POLITICO disclosed that former President Donald Trump's administration is contemplating new measures to pressure the Cuban regime. These measures could potentially include tightening the energy blockade and cutting off oil supplies, a move supported by hardline factions within the U.S. government.
Although these discussions remain internal and have not yet translated into official policy, the mere prospect of increased energy isolation exacerbates economic uncertainty on the island. This is particularly concerning given that Cuba's electrical grid is teetering on the brink of failure, and the country's reliance on external suppliers remains critical.
For the moment, the informal market has absorbed the initial impact of these developments, keeping the values of the dollar and euro unchanged. However, economists caution that this tranquility might be fleeting. In Cuba, geopolitical upheavals often result in renewed pressure on the peso, a currency that continues to weaken amid distrust, scarcity, and an increasingly hostile international environment towards the regime.
Understanding Cuba's Informal Currency Market
Why is the informal currency market important in Cuba?
The informal currency market is crucial in Cuba because it often reflects the real value of foreign currencies against the Cuban peso, bypassing official rates that may be artificially maintained by the government.
What impact could U.S. policy changes have on Cuba's economy?
Changes in U.S. policy, such as increased energy blockades, could exacerbate Cuba's economic challenges by further limiting access to vital resources, leading to greater economic instability and potential shortages.
How might geopolitical tensions affect the Cuban peso?
Geopolitical tensions can lead to increased uncertainty and diminished confidence in the Cuban economy, potentially causing the peso to depreciate further as it faces external economic pressures.