exchange rate
Definition of exchange rate
: the ratio at which the principal unit of two currencies may be traded
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First Known Use of exchange rate
1855
Financial Definition of EXCHANGE RATE
exchange rate
What It Is
An exchange rate between two countries' currencies indicates the value of one currency relative to the other.
How It Works
On June 16, 2010, the exchange rate between the dollar and the euro was 1.23 $/€. This means that to obtain one euro, you would need 1.23 dollars. Conversely, if you were about to take a vacation to Europe, you could take $1,000 to the bank and receive €813.01.
Exchange rates can be fixed or floating. If a country fixes its currency to that of another country, the exchange rate between those two currencies will not change. If a country has a floating exchange rate, the rate between its currency and any other currency will adjust to market conditions.
Why It Matters
The exchange rate between two currencies plays a major role in international trade and investment. For instance, if the dollar appreciates, or gains value, relative to the euro, Americans traveling in Europe will have greater purchasing power, but it will be more difficult for the U.S. businesses to export goods.
Changes in the exchange rate are subject to a wide range of factors, such as interest rates, price levels and expected future market conditions.
EXCHANGE RATE Defined for English Language Learners
exchange rate
Definition of exchange rate for English Language Learners
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: a number that is used to calculate the difference in value between money from one country and money from another country
Learn More about exchange rate
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See words that rhyme with exchange rate Britannica English: Translation of exchange rate for Arabic speakers Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about exchange rate
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