Dollar Dominance

The global financial system continues to evolve. Although the US dollar remains the dominant reserve and trade currency, its relative share is gradually shifting as new players, technologies, and cross-border payment systems gain prominence. In order for the dollar to remain dominant, the United States should continue to balance innovation with stability.

Dollar Dominance Monitor

This monitor analyzes the strength of the dollar relative to other major currencies. The project presents interactive indicators to track BRICS and China’s progress in developing an alternative financial infrastructure.

Programs

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Content

New Atlanticist

Jun 3, 2025

For dollar-backed stablecoins to be truly stable, the US needs to set international standards

By Josh Lipsky

The current patchwork of regulations around the globe creates more confusion, more friction in payments, and ultimately higher costs for consumers.

Digital Currencies Digital Policy

New Atlanticist

May 27, 2025

What’s the Trump administration’s dollar strategy? It depends on who you ask.

By Alisha Chhangani

Within the White House, there appear to be competing and fractured views of the dollar’s role. This dissonance could result in harm to the currency’s long-term dominance.

Digital Currencies Dollar Dominance
Magnified US dollar bill

Atlantic Council Strategy Paper Series

May 20, 2025

Why the US cannot afford to lose dollar dominance

By Martin Mühleisen, Valbona Zeneli

Since World War II, US geopolitical influence has been compounded by the role of the dollar as the world’s dominant currency. As global economic power becomes more diffuse and strategic competitors “dedollarize,” policymakers must determine how to maintain the dollar’s role at the center of global trade and financial networks.

Dollar Dominance Economy & Business

Econographics

Mar 13, 2025

Meeting in Mar-a-Lago: Is a new currency deal plausible?

By Josh Lipsky, Jessie Yin

Washington is once again chattering about the possibility of a currency deal. But the countries that comprise the US trade deficit today are not the same as the ones in the '80s.

Dollar Dominance Economy & Business

Econographics

Aug 27, 2024

Going for gold: Does the dollar’s declining share in global reserves matter?

By Hung Tran

If gold—which has recently experienced a surge in purchases by many global central banks—is included in reserve asset portfolios, the share of the US dollar is smaller than what the IMF has highlighted.

Dollar Dominance Economy & Business