Cuba's Informal Currency Market Sees Stability Amidst Diverging Official Rates

The informal currency market in Cuba maintained stability on July 29, 2026, closing the day at identical rates to its opening. The US dollar was valued at 673 Cuban pesos (CUP), unchanged from the previous day and continuing a streak of stability. The euro also closed the session at its initial value, 785 CUP.

Compared to last month's values, the dollar has increased by 62 pesos and the euro by 83.50 pesos. However, these figures may include methodological adjustments. Over the past week, the dollar has risen by 1.50 pesos while the euro gained 7.50 pesos.

The Central Bank of Cuba introduced Segment III as a more flexible exchange mechanism, but its official rate remains far removed from the informal market rates. The gap between official and informal rates is significant, with the dollar priced at 68 pesos less in the informal market and the euro by 96 pesos.