The transition to the euro as the reference currency for determining the official exchange rate of the Moldovan leu has generated estimated savings of 21.8 million euros for individuals and economic agents in the period January 2025 – June 2026. According to the National Bank of Moldova, the difference between the buying and selling rates of the euro has decreased by approximately 24% compared to 2024, reports IPN.

NBM specifies that the difference between the buying and selling rate of the euro has decreased by approximately 24% compared to 2024, from 21 to 16 bani. Thus, the currency exchange in euro has become less costly for bank customers.

The change also targeted the management of BNM’s international reserves. The National Bank converted 623.4 million dollars into 596.2 million euros, and the subsequent appreciation of the European currency generated a favorable difference estimated at 50.6 million euros. According to the institution, the amount does not represent an actual gain, but the result of a reevaluation based on the exchange rate.

The Euro replaced the US dollar as the reference currency on January 1, 2025, in the context of the widespread use of the European currency in Moldova’s economy. At that time, over 60% of commercial transactions and about 70% of remittances were made in euros.

NBM states that the leu is not fixed against the euro, and the exchange rate continues to be determined by the demand and supply of currency on the market.