Revaluation
Definition
Upward adjustment of a currency's official exchange rate.
Revaluation, in the context of Forex, refers to an upward adjustment of a currency's official exchange rate. This means that the value of a currency increases relative to other currencies. It is the opposite of devaluation, where a currency's value decreases.
How It Works
Revaluation can occur in several ways:
- Government Intervention: A government can intervene in the foreign exchange market by buying its own currency, thus increasing its demand and consequently, its value.
- Economic Factors: Positive economic indicators, such as high GDP growth, low inflation, or a strong current account balance, can increase the demand for a currency, leading to revaluation.
- Central Bank Policy: A central bank can increase interest rates, making investments in that currency more attractive, which can lead to revaluation.
Why It Matters
Revaluation can have significant implications:
- Trade Balance: A revalued currency makes a country's exports more expensive and imports cheaper, which can lead to a deterioration in the trade balance.
- Inflation: Revaluation can decrease inflation by making imports cheaper, reducing the cost of living.
- Investment: A revalued currency can attract more foreign investment, as it increases the potential return on investments.
However, excessive revaluation can also lead to a loss in competitiveness, making domestic products less attractive to foreign buyers.