DINAR REVALUATION REPORT: Central Bank of Iraq's Plan to Remove Zeros from the Dinar, 23 SEPT

 Central Bank of Iraq's Plan to Remove Zeros from the Dinar

As of September 22, 2024, the Central Bank of Iraq is studying the feasibility of removing zeros from the Iraqi dinar. 1  3 This move is part of a strategic plan aimed at simplifying financial transactions and reducing transaction costs, which was first announced in 2011. 3 The plan, once complete, will be passed to the ministerial council and Parliament for approval. 3

Reasons for Removing Zeros

The primary reason for deleting zeros from the currency is to combat inflation and enhance confidence in the national currency. 4 This process can simplify accounting operations and financial transactions, potentially improving the country's image before investors and the international community. 4

Potential Challenges

Removing zeros from the currency involves challenges such as printing new currency, modifying accounting systems, and training people on how to use the new currency.  4 This process may initially cause confusion among residents and consumers and requires careful planning to avoid economic disruptions. 4

Precedents

Countries like Turkey, Brazil, Zimbabwe, and Venezuela have previously removed zeros from their currencies. 4 For example, Turkey removed six zeros from its currency in 2005, Brazil undertook similar measures in the 1980s and 1990s, Zimbabwe removed twelve zeros in 2009, and Venezuela removed five zeros in 2018. 4

Impact of Removing Zeros on Balances in America

The removal of zeros from the dinar does not indicate any restrictions on the Central Bank of Iraq's balances in America. 1  However, the effects on international transactions and the dinar's exchange rate will depend on how well the process is executed and the state of Iraq's economy at the time of implementation. 4

Conclusion

The Central Bank of Iraq's plan to remove zeros from the dinar is a significant step toward simplifying financial transactions and enhancing the currency's stability. However, careful planning and execution are necessary to ensure the process is successful and does not lead to economic disruptions.