On December 26, the U.S. dollar opened at 435 Cuban pesos (CUP) in Cuba's informal market, according to the rate posted by elTOQUE.
In recent days, the American currency has remained at a consistently high value, driven by a scarcity of cash and significant demand among the Cuban populace.
The euro, trading at 480 CUP, maintains its position as the strongest currency in the parallel market. Its value surpasses that of the dollar, reflecting an increase in private transactions and operations that use the European currency as a benchmark for stability.
The surprise of the day is the Freely Convertible Currency (MLC)410 CUP, marking a 30 pesos increase from the previous day. Despite this rise, it still lags slightly behind both the dollar and the euro.
Informal Exchange Rate in Cuba
Friday, December 26, 2025 - 07:00 AM
Exchange rate of the dollar (USD) to Cuban pesos (CUP): 435 CUP
Exchange rate of the euro (EUR) to Cuban pesos (CUP): 480 CUP
Exchange rate of the MLC to Cuban pesos (CUP): 410 CUP
Available banknotes and their equivalents in Cuban pesos (CUP):
Dollar (USD):
- $1 → 435 CUP
- $5 → 2,175 CUP
- $10 → 4,350 CUP
- $20 → 8,700 CUP
- $50 → 21,750 CUP
- $100 → 43,500 CUP
Euro (EUR):
- €5 → 2,400 CUP
- €10 → 4,800 CUP
- €20 → 9,600 CUP
- €50 → 24,000 CUP
- €100 → 48,000 CUP
Understanding Cuba's Informal Currency Market
Why is the U.S. dollar in high demand in Cuba?
The U.S. dollar is in high demand due to its relative stability and scarcity, making it a preferred choice for transactions among the Cuban population.
What factors contribute to the euro's strong position in Cuba's market?
The euro's strength is attributed to increased private transactions and its use as a stable reference currency in the country's parallel market.
How does the MLC compare to other currencies in Cuba?
While the MLC has reached a record high, it still trails behind both the U.S. dollar and the euro in terms of value in the informal market.