Singapore dollar hits an all-time high of 3.57 against the Malaysian ringgit

The Singapore dollar (SGD) has surged to an all-time high against the Malaysian ringgit (MYR), crossing the 3.57 mark as of 20 February 2024 at 9:43 PM. (GMT+8)

As at time of writing, the Singapore dollar is trading at RM3.5731.

Source: Google Finance

For Malaysia, the continued weakness in its exports has been a significant concern. This downturn in export performance can be linked to sluggish global demand and competitive pressures, which directly impact the country’s trade balance and, consequently, the value of its currency.

Additionally, “external factors” such as the rate hikes by the United States Federal Reserve have exerted pressure on emerging market currencies, including the Malaysian ringgit. These rate increases tend to attract investors towards US-denominated assets, leading to a depreciation of other currencies. Geopolitical concerns and uncertainties regarding China’s economic prospects further contribute to the volatile global economic environment, affecting investor sentiment and causing fluctuations in currency values.

In contrast, the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), has maintained its monetary policy unchanged, continuing its tight stance as the city-state grapples with persistent inflation. Unlike most countries where central banks adjust interest rates to influence economic activity, Singapore’s monetary policy is primarily centered on managing the exchange rate. The MAS allows the Singapore dollar to appreciate or depreciate against the currencies of its major trading partners within an undisclosed band. This strategy aims to stabilize prices and maintain competitiveness, thereby directly influencing the value of the Singapore dollar.

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S$1 to RM3.50: Singapore dollar hits all-time high against the Malaysian ringgit

The Singaporean dollar has reached a record heights against the Malaysian ringgit.

As of 10.25pm on October, 23rd, the Singapore dollar stands at S$1 to RM3.50 — the highest since July this year.

The Malaysia’s currency has been weighed down by a slump in exports partly due to a slowdown in China, rising yields in the United States and risk driven by the Israel-Hamas conflict.

The Singapore dollar is supported by the management of the trade-weighted SGD exchange rate by maintaining the prevailing rate of appreciation of the S$NEER policy band. This is seen as necessary to counteract the impact of rising import prices and to keep domestic cost pressures in check, ultimately ensuring price stability in the medium term.

 

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S$1 to RM3.40: Singapore dollar hits record high against the Malaysian ringgit

A new high against the Malaysian ringgit

The Singapore dollar has reached a new record high against the ringgit today, 11 November. According to data from Forbes, the Singapore dollar has reached a new high of 1 SGD = RM3.400738. 

Last week an article by Straits Times shows that analysts project the ringgit to drop to RM3.35 to RM3.45 range against Singdollar due to the ringgit volatility. With strong economic fundamentals, the Singapore dollar has remained resilient and has been one of the better-performing global currencies as compared to its Southeast Asian peers. Given the outlook for inflation, the Singapore central bank uses the exchange rate rather than interest rates to stabilise prices.

MAS reacts to high inflation by allowing the Singapore dollar to appreciate against peer currencies, thereby driving down the cost of imported goods in local currency terms.

 

We could see long queues at money changers soon. 

Top image via Depositphotos.

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How To Carry Foreign Currency When Traveling

Armed with a debit card and a stack of American dollars, my significant other and I went on a vacation recently. We needed to unwind as we take a step back from the hustle and bustle of the city.

One thing is for sure! It was a good idea for us to research on how to carry foreign currency in a country we have not been before. Consider the following methods to safely convert your money to foreign currency while traveling.

#1: CREDIT CARD

Credit cards are best used for significant purchases such as hotel reservations, car rentals, and airline tickets. Credit card purchases are usually exchanged at the interbank exchange rate, which leans towards your advantage. What’s more? There are credit cards that rub off their rewards such as added travel insurance or airport lounge access.

The only downside with carrying mere credit card is that some restaurants or stores do not accept credit card transactions. While there are advantages in carrying a credit card, keep in mind the charges that can add up quickly as you return home.

#2: DEBIT CARD OR ATM

Arguably the most convenient and cheapest way to get local cash is to swipe your debit card through the ATMs. You will reap the same interbank exchange rate when you make cash withdrawals through your ATM or debit card as you do when you make a credit card purchase. Spend directly from your bank account with your Visa or MasterCard debit card when you go overseas. Simply ensure that you are aware of the in tree international transaction fees that come with it.

The downside to using your debit card is its foreign ATM use and currency conversion fees. Research on this.

#3: CASH

For immediate purchases that you must consume within the first 24 hours, it is a good idea to carry an ample amount of foreign currency. Before you leave Singapore, remember to exchange your SGD to foreign currency to handle expenses such as taking a cab or buying a meal. Use your cash until you can find the nearest ATM.

It goes without saying that you would not get the greatest conversion rate from your home country. However, it provides a cushion for your immediate expenses and prevents you from being stranded. If you are traveling to a major international airport or a well-known city, you probably do not need to hoard cash as ATMs are of access.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

A WORD FOR SAFE KEEPING

When you are traveling or living overseas, it is entirely impossible that you will not need to spend money in the local currency. Whether you are paying for your essentials or sending money back home, there are several ways to secure your funds.

Research is your best-friend! Know where to get or how to convert your funds while you travel. Bring a small amount of foreign currency abroad unless you can guarantee that the conversion rate is favorable to you.

Nonetheless, you may carry your local currency along with your plastic cards as you cross different countries. Convert your local currency periodically when needed.

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Everything You Need To Know About Malaysian Ringgit

Much like Singapore, Malaysia is a multicultural country. It has substantial influences from the British, Arabic, Persian, Indian, and Chinese culture. Aside from this, it shares land borders with Thailand, Indonesia, and Brunei.

Not to mention, we can simply travel to Malaysia by land. Whether you are travelling to Malaysia or having a business transaction, here is a list of everything you need to know about the Malaysian Ringgit!

#1: MORE THAN JUST ART

Vibrant colors sprinkled on the notes are the first things that people notice about the Malaysian Ringgit. Did you know that these colors serve a purpose? Aside from being aesthetically pleasing, the colors enable you to identify the denomination in a glance.

Now, look at the reverse side of the note. Most bills contain images of Malaysia’s infrastructure at the back. For instance, the famous Petronas Twin Towers grace the 5-ringgit note.

#2: MOVES LIKE JAGGED

In Malay, the word “ringgit” means “jagged”. It originates back to the colonial times where rough Spanish silver coins were once used. During this time, the coins were called dollars. This is why you may have seen some prices listed as “$” or “M$” before.

Currently, the currency in Malaysia is issued by the Bank Negara Malaysia (National Bank of Malaysia).

#3: SMART MONEY MOVES

When travelling to Malaysia, you have to be mindful with how you spend your money. Spare your small change to the street vendors or the people who have a problem breaking down your large notes.

Save your RM50 and RM100 banknotes to hotel, bars, mini-marts, and other establishments that carry plenty of cash flow.

#4: MUCH IS THE SAME

Interestingly, the Ringgit shares the same denomination as the Singaporean Dollar. It is divided into RM1, RM5, RM10, RM20, RM50, and RM100.

There used to be an RM500 and RM1000 denominations, but the government demonetized it in the 1990s to curb money laundering. If you see this note being handover to you, stay vigilant. Do not accept any of these notes from anyone.

#5: MONEY SPENT AND MONEY SAVED

According to a study, the top three ways that Malaysians employ to eliminate their spending include spending less on clothes, reducing entertainment costs, and switching to more affordable grocery items.

On the other hand, they spend most of their disposable income on dining out. This is followed by their petrol and housing costs.

#6: SAVE YOUR TIPS

Save your tips as most people do not expect to receive it. Tipping is not a common practice in Malaysia. Some places such as restaurants and luxury hotels may add a 10% service charge to your bill.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

Otherwise, tipping will be discretionary.

Sources: 1 & 2 & 3

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