Business news from Ukraine

Business news from Ukraine

Overview and forecast of hryvnia exchange rate against key currencies from KYT Group analysts

Issue No. 1 – September 2025

The purpose of this review is to provide an analysis of the current situation on the Ukrainian currency market and forecast the hryvnia exchange rate against key currencies based on the latest data. We analyze current conditions, market dynamics, key influencing factors, and likely scenarios.

Analysis of the current situation on the currency market

International context

The first half of September in the global financial markets, as well as in the Ukrainian one, was marked by the expectation of a key decision by the US Federal Reserve. The Fed chairman made it clear that policy would have to be adjusted in order not to “overstretch” the economy, which is already showing signs of cooling. Inflation rose slightly again in August, but not critically, and the labor market is gradually weakening. This has put investors on hold: whether the Fed will cut rates in September or take a break. This answer will affect not only the dollar, but also the dynamics of the euro and hryvnia, as well as gold, stock, and even cryptocurrency prices.

Against this background, Europe looks quite calm. Inflation is hovering around 2%, which is the level that the European Central Bank is targeting. There are no new reasons to raise rates, so the regulator decided not to change anything. The eurozone economy is growing very slowly, and this does not give the euro strong arguments for strengthening.

Oil and gas prices did not add to the intrigue in August and September: prices remained more or less stable, with no new peak fluctuations. This is even a disadvantage for the euro, as the absence of energy pressure removes the need for the ECB to act more firmly.

The actual Fed rate cut has not yet occurred, but the market is already living in anticipation of this step, which analysts believe is most likely. Both globally and in Ukraine, the dollar is gradually weakening precisely because investors are pricing in the high probability of a policy easing by the US central bank.

In the euro/dollar pair, the euro is recovering without any drivers of its own, thanks solely to the dollar’s weakening. In Ukraine, the dollar is also drifting downward. This means that the “cheaper” dollar is actually already taken into account in quotes. At the same time, if the Fed does cut the rate in September, the reaction may be short and moderate, as the market has already played out most of the potential impact of this scenario. But if the Fed surprises by keeping the rate unchanged, the dollar will have a chance for a short-term pullback, and the market will have to quickly revise its estimates and expectations.

Domestic Ukrainian context

In Ukraine, the situation remains under control. The National Bank has record reserves and can smooth out any surges in demand or supply of currency. The official hryvnia exchange rate is gradually strengthening, and the cash market is moving in the same direction, without sharp deviations. Spreads – the difference between buying and selling – remain stable, indicating a consensus between the regulator and the market.

The key question for the coming weeks is how the dollar will react to the Fed’s decision. If the rate is cut, the hryvnia may receive additional support, and the euro may rise slightly higher. If the rate is left unchanged, the dollar will retain its advantage, and the Ukrainian market will feel it.

The main news of the first half of September was the government’s benchmark for the dollar exchange rate included in the draft budget for 2026 – an average annual rate of 45.6 UAH/$. It is close to the expectations of the business community: according to a survey by the European Business Association, member companies include UAH 46/$ in their financial plans for 2026, which is higher than the expected exchange rate for 2025 – UAH 44/$. In general, we see a devaluation consensus in the forecasts of the Ukrainian government and business, as there are no prerequisites for a reversal.

US dollar exchange rate: dynamics and analysis

General characteristics of market behavior

September for the dollar is in a mode of smooth fluctuations with an almost flat downward trend. On global markets, the dollar has already played down most of the expectations of a possible Federal Reserve rate cut in September, and this has been reflected in the domestic Ukrainian market.

Over the past 30 days, the exchange rate has been gradually slipping downward: the average buying rate dropped from UAH 41.20 to UAH 41.05, the selling rate from UAH 41.65 to UAH 41.50, and the official NBU rate from UAH 41.35 to UAH 41.25. It was a steady and controlled decline, with no sharp impulses. In the second decade of September, the dollar remained in a narrow range of 41.00-41.30 UAH/$ on the cash market, while sales remained in the range of 41.45-41.60 UAH/$.

The NBU’s official exchange rate moves in sync with the market, anchoring the market. Bid and ask spreads remained in a narrow range of UAH 0.40-0.50, while market rates remained equidistant from the official rate, indicating that there is a “rate consensus” between the market and the regulator.

Key factors of influence

  1. International context. On global markets, the dollar index came under pressure due to expectations that the Fed would cut its rate. This was also reflected in Ukraine: the exchange rate already takes into account most forecasts, and there is little room for additional weakening.
  2. NBU reserves. Ukraine has a record stock of international reserves, which allows the regulator to smooth out local fluctuations flexibly and quickly.
  3. Behavioral factor. The population does not create a rush demand for the dollar, focusing on the euro, which is more elastic in exchange rate formation. This reduces risks for the dollar cash segment and minimizes pressure on the market.

Forecast.

  • In the short term (1-2 weeks): the base range is UAH 41.00-41.50/$, with possible deviations in the event of new signals from the Fed, with a tendency to the lower bound of the forecast in the event of a rate cut.
  • Medium-term (2-3 months): 41.30-42.00 UAH/$. If the Fed cuts the rate, the dollar may fall to the lower bound in the short term, but fundamentally, the cushion of support for the dollar remains.
  • Longer term (6+ months): the scenario of a smooth hryvnia devaluation remains. Given stable external inflows, the expected benchmark is UAH 43.00-44.50/$ by mid-2026, provided that the broader context of the current situation remains unchanged.

We advise you to pay attention to our scenario modeling of exchange rates for different actions of the Fed, which was published in the previous forecast and is available at this link.

Euro exchange rate: dynamics and analysis

General characteristics of market behavior

In the first half of September, the euro on the Ukrainian market showed restrained dynamics with a gradual shift to the upper limits of the range. During the week, bidding quotes remained in the range of 48.00-48.10 UAH/€, while asking prices were 48.65-48.75 UAH/€. On the 30-day horizon, we can see an undulating trend: a decline in late August, stabilization in early September, and a new attempt to rise closer to the middle of the month.

Specifics of the course location

A characteristic change in the “geometry” is noteworthy: the buying rate during the previous week was clearly “pressing” against the official NBU rate, while the selling rate was gradually moving away from it. At the same time, the spread between buying and selling (0.50-0.60 UAH/€) remains relatively stable. This may indicate that:

  • The public demand for buying euros has decreased, and banks with exchange offices are ready to accept currency from clients at almost the official rate without charging an additional premium.
  • The euro’s selling rate is kept higher as an insurance premium in case of sharp changes in global markets or a new round of demand. In other words, FX market operators are pricing in the potential for the euro to appreciate, even if it does not materialize.
  • In fact, we see a balance between “calmness” on the supply side and cautious “foresight” on the demand side.

Key influencing factors

  • Global context: expectations for the September Fed decision are creating nervousness in global markets. The euro is trying to hold its ground against the dollar, but without its own drivers for growth.
  • Domestic market: demand for cash euros has cooled after the summer peak, and speculative activity has declined, reflecting the stabilization and narrowing of the spread between bid and ask rates.
  • Behavioral factor: households and businesses tend to use the euro as a diversification and speculation tool rather than as a primary asset for transactions or savings.

Forecast.

  • In the short term (1-2 weeks), the euro is likely to remain in the range of 48.20-48.80 UAH/€, with the possibility of short exits to 49.00 UAH/€ in the event of weak signals for the dollar from the US.
  • In the medium term (2-3 months), the Fed’s rate hikes may keep the euro in the range of 48.50-49.50 UAH/€, while a rate cut in the US could push it up to 50.00 UAH/€.
  • Longer-term (6+ months): the baseline scenario is a smooth rise to the range of 49.50-51.00 UAH/€, taking into account the expected weakening of the dollar and the gradual recovery of the European economy.

We advise you to pay attention to our scenario modeling of exchange rates for different actions of the Fed, which was published in the previous forecast and is available here.

Recommendations: dollar or euro – buy, sell, or wait?

USD/UAH

The dollar has already priced in a high probability of a September Fed rate cut in the domestic market. This means that there is limited room for further decline.

It makes little sense to buy at the bottom; it is better to distribute purchases in tranches without trying to catch the perfect moment.

If the Fed unexpectedly leaves the rate unchanged, the dollar may briefly play up, and this will be an opportunity for those who hold reserves to sell some of them at a profit.

For medium-term plans, the dollar remains the “anchor” of the portfolio, but now is not the time for large one-time transactions – liquidity and flexibility are more important.

EUR/UAH

The euro is showing an interesting “geometry”: the buying rate is approaching the official rate, while the selling rate is moving up. This signals a lower demand for the euro from the population, but also the caution of operators who are hedging against the risk of its growth.

It is now possible to buy euros in small tranches, especially for those who are diversifying their savings or preparing future payments to the EU.

If the Fed does cut the rate, the euro will get a boost and could quickly approach 49-50 UAH/€.

There is little point in selling the euro now, as the upside potential is higher than the downside risk.

It’s better to wait for pullbacks or new peaks to optimize the euro’s share of the portfolio.

Overall strategy

On a short-term horizon, it is worth keeping a balance: the dollar as a stable base, the euro as a flexible instrument with the potential for rebounds.

It is better to buy in installments rather than in one go.

Sell only when the market shows a tangible upward movement.

And most importantly, plan in ranges, not points: the Ukrainian market is currently reacting to external signals rather than internal events.

Given the consensus between the government and business on a managed devaluation trend, the hryvnia is the best choice for saving money in the medium and long term.

If the Fed does lower the rate, it is worth considering diversifying your investment portfolio with crypto: the global market will be attracted to risk when it gets cheaper money.

This material has been prepared by analysts of the international multiservice product FinTech platform KYT Group and reflects their expert, analytical professional judgment. The information presented in this review is for informational purposes only and cannot be considered as a recommendation for action.

The Company and its analysts make no representations and assume no liability for any consequences arising from the use of this information. All information is provided “as is” without any additional warranties of completeness, obligations of timeliness or to update or supplement.

Users of this material should make their own risk assessment and informed decisions based on their own evaluation and analysis of the situation from various available sources that they consider to be sufficiently qualified. We recommend that you consult an independent financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

REFERENCE

KYT Group is an international multi-service product FinTech platform that has been successfully operating in the non-banking financial services market for 16 years. One of the company’s flagship activities is currency exchange. KYT Group is one of the largest operators in this segment of the financial market of Ukraine, is included in the list of the largest taxpayers, and is one of the industry leaders in terms of asset growth and equity.

More than 90 branches in 16 major cities of Ukraine are located in convenient locations for customers and have modern equipment for the convenience, security and confidentiality of each transaction.

The company’s activities comply with the regulatory requirements of the NBU. KYT Group adheres to EU standards, having a branch in Poland and planning cross-border expansion to European countries.

 

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Analytical review of hryvnia dynamics against leading currencies from KYT Group

Issue #2 – August 2025

The purpose of this review is to provide an analysis of the current situation on the Ukrainian foreign exchange market and a forecast of the hryvnia exchange rate against key currencies based on the latest data. We analyze current conditions, market dynamics, key influencing factors, and likely scenarios.

Analysis of the current situation on the Ukrainian currency market

In the second half of August, a number of important signals from global markets confirmed that the hryvnia exchange rate increasingly depends not on local factors but on international news and the state of the world’s leading economies and the decisions of their central banks.

Domestic factors remain rather short-term impulses, capable of producing slight spikes but not changing the overall trajectory.

International context

In the United States, July data showed a slowdown in inflation and a cooling of the labor market. This took some pressure off the dollar and increased expectations that the Federal Reserve could cut rates as early as September. The Fed chairman explicitly acknowledged that the policy will have to be reviewed in order not to “overstretch” the economy. As a result, the dollar weakened slightly, and stock markets got a chance for additional optimism.

Given the expectations of the Fed’s actions regarding rate revisions, different scenarios should be considered for key currency pairs.

If the Fed cuts rates in September:

  • EUR/USD: the euro will get an upward push, and the market may reach 1.19-1.20.
  • USD/UAH: The dollar in Ukraine will weaken to the lower end of the range, around 41.20-41.40 UAH/$.
  • EUR/UAH: The euro’s rise against the dollar will also pull up the hryvnia, with a possible move toward 49.00-49.20 UAH/€.

If the Fed leaves the rate unchanged:

  • EUR/USD: the dollar will retain its advantage, and the pair may drop back to 1.14-1.15.
  • USD/UAH: The dollar in Ukraine will remain close to the middle or upper limit of the forecast corridor – 41.70-42.00 UAH/$.
  • EUR/UAH: The euro will be under pressure and is likely to fluctuate in the range of 48.20-48.60 UAH/€, with no clear upward trend.

The European economy looks sluggish: growth is almost imperceptible, inflation is stable at 2%, and there are no new drivers for the euro. This keeps the currency in a neutral mode – no reason for a breakthrough, but also no prerequisites for a sharp fall.

The UK was the first major economy to cut its interest rate. This signaled to the world that the period of tight monetary policy is coming to an end. If the United States confirms a similar move, the yield differential between currencies will decrease, and the dollar will lose some of its advantage.

Oil and gas prices remained relatively calm in August. This means that there is no additional pressure on the US and European economies due to energy. This is even more of a disadvantage for the euro, as the argument for a tighter ECB policy disappears.

In general, the international backdrop looks like this: The dollar has temporarily lost some of its support, and the euro is hovering on the sidelines.

For the hryvnia, this means relatively stable conditions.

Domestic Ukrainian context

The NBU’s reserves remain high, even after significant interventions and external debt repayments. This creates a safety margin to smooth out exchange rate fluctuations.

In July, inflation eased to 14.1% year-on-year, and the monthly figure showed deflation for the first time in two years. This calmed the market and reduced the “insurance premium” in prices.

External support is coming in as planned: at the end of August, the next tranche of more than €3 billion under the Ukraine Facility program and €1 billion from the proceeds of frozen Russian assets under the G7 Extraordinary Revenue Acceleration for Ukraine (ERA) initiative were disbursed. This is an important stabilizing factor for both the budget and the FX market.

The NBU has also taken steps to liberalize the currency by allowing the repatriation of dividends and expanding hedging instruments. This creates a more predictable environment for business without putting any additional pressure on the exchange rate.

In general, the Ukrainian FX market is entering September in a calm mode: reserves are sufficient, inflation has cooled, and external funds are coming in at the right level.

Internal factors are rather short-term spikes, but the exchange rate will be determined by statements, events, and decisions from Washington and Brussels.

US dollar exchange rate: dynamics and analysis

The general characteristic of market behavior is a smooth decline without sharp impulses

August confirmed the trend of gradual depreciation of the dollar against the hryvnia.

  • On a monthly basis, all indicators showed a smooth slide: the buying rate dropped from ~41.45 to 41.05 UAH/$, the selling rate from almost 42.00 to 41.60 UAH/$, and the official NBU rate from 41.73 to 41.26 UAH/$.
  • On a weekly basis, the market stabilized at the low end of the range: after a brief rebound on August 26-27, quotes returned to a steady decline, with no signs of a new trend toward hryvnia appreciation or depreciation.
  • The bid-ask spread has remained steady in a narrow range of UAH 0.40-0.50, and market rates remain equidistant from the official rate. This indicates a lack of nervousness and support for the “exchange rate consensus” between the market and the regulator.

Domestic demand remains restrained: importers are working as planned, households are mainly focused on the euro, and the NBU is keeping the exchange rate in balance without any sudden movements.

Key influencing factors:

  • International background: markets are waiting for the Fed’s decision in September, so the dollar is globally “paused”. This reduces volatility in Ukraine as well.
  • NBU reserves: remain sufficient to smooth out fluctuations.
  • Supply/demand: There are no signs of abnormal import or consumer waves, so dollar liquidity in the market is balanced.
  • Behavioral factor: the population does not create a rush demand for the dollar, which additionally keeps this segment of the FX market stable.

Forecast:

  • Short-term (1-2 weeks): the basic range is 41.20-41.70 UAH/$. The market is unlikely to go below 41.00 without a strong external signal.
  • Medium-term (2-3 months): 41.50-42.20 UAH/$. The Fed’s likely September decision could set the momentum in either direction: if the rate is cut, the hryvnia could strengthen in the short term and the dollar could fall to the lower boundary; if it is maintained, quotes will remain closer to the upper boundary.
  • Longer term (6+ months): the scenario of a smooth devaluation remains: the expected benchmark is UAH 43.00-44.50/$, provided that foreign aid is stable and the NBU’s policy is controlled.

Euro exchange rate: dynamics and analysis

General characteristics of market behavior

The end of August showed more volatility for the euro than for the dollar. During the week, the exchange rate initially declined (to lows of ~47.80 UAH/€ on the buy side and ~48.40 UAH/€ on the sell side on August 27-28), but recovered to the level of 48.20-48.60 UAH/€ at the end of the period (August 30-31). It was a technical rebound that was synchronized with movements in the EUR/USD pair on the global market after the Fed chairman’s statement.

Prior to the news from the US, the market had recorded a stabilization in the euro after the previous decline, but there were no drivers for a new trend or significantly different levels from the current target levels.

Key influencing factors

  • Global cues: The Fed’s hint of a possible rate cut pushed the euro to a short-term recovery against the dollar and hryvnia.
  • Domestic market: demand for cash euros has cooled after the summer overheating, and speculative transactions are declining. This slowed down sharp fluctuations and reduced pressure on the spread.
  • Spread: for most of the month, it remained in the range of UAH 0.50-0.70/€, but during the correction in the second half of August, it fell closer to UAH 0.40-0.50/€. This is a sign that market operators feel the balance of supply and demand and do not include additional risk premiums.

Forecast.

  • In the short term (1-2 weeks): the expected range is 48.20-48.90 UAH/€. If the market receives new weak data from the US, there may be short attempts to reach 49.00 UAH/€.
  • Medium-term (2-3 months): likely to balance in the range of 48.50-49.80 UAH/€, depending on the September Fed decision. A rate cut in the US will boost the euro, but keeping rates on hold will keep it on the sidelines.
  • Long-term (6+ months): the baseline scenario is UAH 49.00-51.00/€ with episodes of volatility in the event of new US-EU trade agreements or changes in ECB policy.

Recommendations: act in ranges, keep liquidity, hedge risks

Key universal ideas:

  • On the short-term horizon: The USD is holding close to the lower boundaries of the band, with no reason for a sharp strengthening; the EUR is more of a sideways pair with short rebounds possible.
  • Liquidity over profitability: keep a stock of free currency for current needs, and hold term instruments only with an early access option.
  • A universal strategy for everyone – flexibility, division of operations into parts, hedging.

  • Plan in ranges, not in points: in calculations, you should focus on a “corridor” rather than a specific number.
  • Keep an eye on spreads: their narrowing is a moment to optimize purchases/sales, while their widening is a signal to slow down.
  • Risk management: Avoid large transactions and long-term commitments, especially amid rumors and news – in a phase of relative calm, information injections often swing expectations without a real basis.

For private investors and savers:

  • USD is the basis of stability, EUR is flexible: the dollar remains the “anchor” of the portfolio, and the euro can be added in small tranches after correction.
  • Don’t chase the “peaks”: the market is mostly sideways now, so distribute the exchanges gradually.
  • The hryvnia is only for current expenses: a reserve of 1-2 months of current needs is enough, and the surplus should be kept in hard currency or currency-linked instruments.

For speculative operations on USD/UAH and EUR/UAH:

  • This is the time for short positions and quick profit-taking in small portions.
  • Watch for “intersections” between official and market rates: sharp jumps and narrowing spreads often mean a technical delay and a quick “catching up” of the market.
  • Take care of liquidity: avoid large transactions at times when there are few offers and a wide gap between rates; do not hold large positions before the release of key macro data.

This material was prepared by the company’s analysts and reflects their expert, analytical professional judgment. The information presented in this review is for informational purposes only and cannot be considered as a recommendation for action.

The Company and its analysts make no representations and assume no liability for any consequences arising from the use of this information. All information is provided “as is” without any additional warranties of completeness, obligations of timeliness or updates or additions.

Users of this material should make their own risk assessments and informed decisions based on their own evaluation and analysis of the situation from various available sources that they consider to be sufficiently qualified. We recommend that you consult an independent financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

REFERENCE

KYT Group is an international multi-service product FinTech platform that has been successfully operating in the non-banking financial services market for 16 years. One of the company’s flagship activities is currency exchange. KYT Group is one of the largest operators in this segment of the financial market of Ukraine, is included in the list of the largest taxpayers, and is one of the industry leaders in terms of asset growth and equity.

More than 90 branches in 16 major cities of Ukraine are located in convenient locations for customers and have modern equipment for the convenience, security and confidentiality of each transaction.

The company’s activities comply with the regulatory requirements of the NBU. KYT Group adheres to EU standards, having a branch in Poland and planning cross-border expansion to European countries.

https://interfax.com.ua/news/projects/1101270.html

 

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Hryvnia exchange rate forecast for nearest future from KYT Group analysts

Issue No. 1 – August 2025

The purpose of this review is to provide an analysis of the current situation on the Ukrainian currency market and a forecast of the hryvnia exchange rate against key currencies based on the latest data. We analyze current conditions, market dynamics, key influencing factors, and likely scenarios.

Analysis of the current situation on the Ukrainian currency market

The first ten days of August and the beginning of the second were marked by a number of data and decisions that set the tone for the exchange rate in the coming weeks. As before, external factors dominate, while internal factors mostly generate situational impulses and slight volatility without changing the long-term trend.

International context

UNITED STATES. July inflation slowed to within expectations, with prices rising by 2.7% yoy and core inflation (excluding food and fuel) by 3.1%, fueling expectations of a Fed rate cut in September and giving the dollar a brief respite after strong macro statistics in previous periods. The labor market has also cooled: nonfarm payrolls were weaker and unemployment rose, further increasing the likelihood of a dovish scenario for the Fed. Taken together, these factors reduce the so-called USD tightening premium over the next few weeks, at least until the Fed makes clear signals about its future policy.

Eurozone. The flash estimate of the Harmonized Index of Consumer Prices (HICP) published by Eurostat for July was 2.0% y/y (stable), which preserves the ECB’s argument for gradual cautious easing later this year. The final GDP estimates for the two quarters confirmed weak but still positive growth. For the euro’s future trajectory, this is more of a neutral or moderately negative signal in isolation from other drivers, as there was no hawkish surprise.

The UK sent its own signal to the global currency tone – its central bank cut its policy rate by 25 bp to 4.0%, signaling the start of monetary policy rebalancing by other major economies outside the US and the euro area and creating expectations for a broader rate review, provided that other macro indicators confirm this policy. In general, such processes soften the dollar’s advantage in the basket of global currencies over the next 1-2 months, if the Fed moves in the same direction.

The global energy factor has not yet provided any impetus for key economies to revise their policies. Market expectations for oil prices have not changed dramatically, and current quotes fully reflect the news background of recent weeks: the supply/demand balance does not add to inflationary tensions in the EU, so it is not a factor that would force the ECB to tighten its policy. This will also work against further euro appreciation. The expected trajectory is for a neutral or moderately downward impact on the euro, provided there are no other signals or data that could restrain or reverse the current trend.

Thus, given the current international backdrop, the USD has fewer reasons and drivers to strengthen in the short term, while the EUR is more likely to experience a sideways move.

The key factors in the near term will be the September Fed rate decision and further actions by the central banks of the world’s major economies: the expected convergence of rates in the leading economies reduces the US yield advantage, which means that the dollar’s advantage is melting away, but the euro is not getting its new driver either.

Domestic Ukrainian context

Reserves and interventions. The National Bank of Ukraine’s international reserves remain high, despite the NBU’s significant foreign currency sales and debt repayments. Despite the decline, the reserve cushion remains sufficient to smooth out fluctuations and maintain a controlled exchange rate dynamic.

Inflation. In July, inflation slowed to 14.1% year-on-year (yoy), and for the first time in two years, deflation was recorded at -0.2% on a monthly basis. This reduces short-term price risks and inflationary premiums in the pricing of importers/retailers. For the hryvnia exchange rate, these factors are neutral or moderately calming, as they eliminate the arguments for a sharp “insurance” demand for the currency.

External support is coming in as expected, which supports the basic set of factors for a stable hryvnia scenario. The EU Council’s decision to disburse another fourth tranche of more than €3.2 billion under the Ukraine Facility is an important reinforcement of fiscal stability and FX liquidity for the fall months. This indirectly reduces the risks of hryvnia volatility in the foreign exchange market.

A new step in currency liberalization by the NBU is a positive signal of stable expectations of the market and the regulator. In early August, the NBU allowed the repatriation of dividends and expanded hedging instruments, as well as simplified a number of technical FX transactions. Structurally, this reduces market risks and improves predictability for businesses without a sharp additional demand for foreign currency, which also removes pressure on the exchange rate.

The Ukrainian market is entering the second half of August with a preserved exchange rate consensus: reserves are sufficient, external financing is confirmed, inflation has cooled, and liberalization is dosed and managed. Domestic factors will continue to give short bursts, but the overall direction will still be determined outside Ukraine – by international data and decisions, primarily those of the US and the EU.

US dollar exchange rate: dynamics and analysis

General characteristics of market behavior – calm and narrow corridor

  • Quotes on the market are moving in a narrow range: buy – 41.20-41.35 UAH/$, sell – 41.65-41.80 UAH/$, official – about 41.50-41.60 UAH/$. After the local low on August 11, there was a slight rebound, but no change in the trend. This confirms our expectations and estimates of no significant volatility, with only minor situational movements.
  • The broader trend observed over the past 30 days is a gradual decline in all indicators: sell – from ~42.05 to 41.70 UAH/$, buy – from 41.56 to 41.23 UAH/$.
  • The market spread is consistently small, ranging from UAH 0.40-0.50, and market rates are usually equidistant from the official rate. The combination of these factors is a signal of low risk premiums in the market and the preservation of exchange rate consensus on the current and expected situation between the NBU, foreign exchange market operators and economic entities.

In general, the Ukrainian FX market is in a calm phase: international factors do not provide drivers for sharp changes, while the NBU’s measured interventions and liberalization keep market volatility and manageability low. Domestic demand is not driven by hype or accumulative drivers, importers act as planned without provoking abnormal surges, and market operators’ “insurance” margins are smaller or practically absent in the UAH/USD quotes.

Forecast.

  • In the short term (1-3 weeks): the basic range is 41.30-41.85 UAH/USD. A breakout below 41.20 is unlikely without a strong external catalyst; short-term impulses are possible on US data or news about external financing for Ukraine.
  • Medium-term (2-3 months): 41.50-42.20 UAH/$. Expectations of a September Fed decision with a likely (but far from guaranteed) rate cut are pushing quotes to the lower end of the band; autumn budget payments/energy imports may push quotes up, but the start of the export season and its success is a strong stabilizing factor. If the scenario of rising uncertainty (security, economic indicators, political shifts) or deteriorating external revenues materializes, short-term gains to 42.30-42.40 are likely.
  • Longer-term (6+ months): the scenario of a smooth, controlled devaluation to UAH 43.00-44.50 remains, subject to stable external support and the NBU’s current intervention tactics; restraints are new tranches of partners and moderate inflation, risks are geopolitics/security and fiscal needs.

Euro exchange rate: dynamics and analysis

General characteristics of market behavior – reflection of the euro to hryvnia exchange rate on external factors

After a long, smooth slide in the buy range of 47.85 to 47.75 and sell range of 48.65 to 48.45, the exchange rate rebounded sharply on 13-14 October: buy range of 47.90 to 48.20 and sell range of 48.50 to 48.85. The official NBU exchange rate rose by a one-day jump from 48.0758 to 48.6472, up UAH 0.58.

A steady downward trend was observed for thirty days, which was interrupted by a corrective recovery on August 13-14.

For most of the period, market rates were equidistant from the official one (the classic corridor), and the bid/ask spread remained at ~0.50-0.70 UAH/€, a sign of stable expectations and lack of nervousness.

The recorded rebound was the result of an external impulse (movement in the EUR/USD pair on the global market after the US statistics) and was quickly reflected in the EUR/UAH market quotes.

Such episodes do not indicate an imbalance, but only the expected technical alignment between the external and internal markets without changing the overall trend – data from the US and eurozone statistics allowed the EUR to make a technical rebound, but the market has already played off this momentum, so without new significant data from the US or the EU, we should not expect further growth in the euro against the hryvnia.

Domestic demand will also not be able to drive the growth of quotations due to the speculative component of setting rates by market participants – after the overheating of June and July and the exhaustion of effective demand, interest in cash euros has cooled. Importers are acting in a planned manner, which smooths out the overall pressure on the market and helps to normalize spreads.

Forecast.

  • In the short term (1-3 weeks): the basic range is 48.20-48.90 UAH/€. Situational movements are possible under the influence of new data from the US and the EU; in the event of a further weakening of the dollar, the market may test 48.90-49.10 UAH/€.
  • Medium-term (2-3 months): 48.60-49.80 UAH/€. If the Fed goes for a rate hike and the EU remains calm, the upper part of the band will be the upper part of the band; in the scenario of a strong USD or weak euro statistics for the eurozone, the exchange rate will stay at the lower end of the band – 48.20-48.60 UAH/€.
  • Long-term (6+ months): 49.00-51.00 UAH/€ with periodic waves of volatility depending on US-EU trade policy and the ECB and Fed’s rate actions.

Recommendations: act in ranges, keep liquidity, hedge risks

Key universal ideas:

– On the short term: USD has fewer reasons to strengthen, EUR is more likely to be sideways with technical bounces.

– Liquidity over profitability: keep a stock of free currency for current needs, term instruments only with the option of early access with minimal losses.

– A universal strategy for everyone – flexibility, trenching, hedging.

– Plan in ranges, not points: include exchange rate corridors in your calculations and forecasts, not fixed numbers.

– Keep an eye on spreads: this is now a more important indicator than the exchange rate. Narrowing is the moment to optimize purchases/sales, while widening is a signal to slow down.

– Risk management: Avoid large transactions and fixed commitments, avoid decisions based on emotions after news/social media – in the context of exchange rate calm, the media are trying to “squeeze clickbait out of nothing.”

For private investors and savers:

  • USD is the base of stability, EUR is the flexibility: the dollar is the “anchor” of the portfolio; after correction, add euros gradually in small amounts.
  • Don’t chase the “peaks”: the current market is a sideways one, so distribute exchanges systematically over time without trying to catch the perfect rate.
  • Hryvnia should be used exclusively for expenses: only an operational reserve for 1-2 months of needs or current expenses, and the surplus should be invested in hard currencies or currency-linked instruments.

For speculative operations on USD/UAH & EUR/UAH:

– It’s time for short positions and quick action: record profits regularly in “small portions” and cut losses quickly.

– Watch out for “intersections” between the official and the market: a sudden jump in the official rate and narrowing spreads usually mean a technical lag and a quick “catching up” of the market – an opportunity for short positions / profit taking.

– Take care of liquidity: refrain from transactions or make smaller trades in an illiquid market (narrow choice of profitable offers, wide spreads), do not hold large positions before the release of important news.

This material was prepared by the company’s analysts and reflects their expert, analytical professional judgment. The information presented in this review is for informational purposes only and cannot be considered a recommendation for action.

The Company and its analysts make no representations and assume no liability for any consequences arising from the use of this information. All information is provided “as is” without any additional guarantees of completeness, obligations of timeliness or updates or additions.

Users of this material should make their own risk assessments and informed decisions based on their own assessment and analysis of the situation from various available sources that they consider to be sufficiently qualified. We recommend that you consult an independent financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

REFERENCE

KYT Group is an international multi-service product FinTech platform that has been successfully operating in the non-banking financial services market for 16 years. One of the company’s flagship activities is currency exchange. KYT Group is one of the largest operators in this segment of the financial market of Ukraine, is included in the list of the largest taxpayers, and is one of the industry leaders in terms of asset growth and equity.

More than 90 branches in 16 major cities of Ukraine are located in convenient locations for customers and have modern equipment for the convenience, security and confidentiality of each transaction.

The company’s activities comply with the regulatory requirements of the NBU. KYT Group adheres to the EU standards, having a branch in Poland and planning cross-border expansion to European countries.

 

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Currency exchange network of KYT Group reached 99 branches – expansion in Dnipro

KYT Group, one of the leaders in the currency exchange and financial services market in Ukraine, continues to dynamically expand its network in key cities of the country with high economic activity.

In Dnipro, the 99th branch of the KYT Group brand network, which has a national coverage and covers 31 settlements of Ukraine: from large metropolitan areas to cities with high economic activity, welcomes its first customers.

This is the sixth branch directly in Dnipro city and the ninth within the region, where one branch operates in Kamianske and two more in Kryvyi Rih. Expansion of KYT Group network presence in Dnipro is a response to the consistently high demand among the city and region residents for transparent quality service and favorable conditions from the national leader in the field of currency exchange.

The new exchange office is located at 90 Nauky Avenue, Dnipro, in a convenient location with active pedestrian traffic. The outlet adheres to the standard working hours for the network in all locations of its presence – from 09:00 to 19:00 seven days a week. Additional information about courses and services is available on the regional website of the KYT Group brand network kyt-obmin.dp.ua, by calling the customer support number of Dnipro city and region 0 800 33 20 57 or on the official telegram channel of the KYT Group network in the region @obmenka_dneprua.

Dnipro city is one of the strategic regions of presence of the KYT Group network of currency exchange offices as one of the largest industrial and economic centers of Ukraine.

Clients of the network in Dnipro and the region, as well as throughout the country, have access to key advantages and service options

Ø online fixing of the exchange rate for 60 minutes via the official website, telegram channel or the company’s customer support service – a unique solution for the Ukrainian market that allows you to plan an exchange in advance at the most favorable terms even in the face of a fluctuating exchange rate;

Ø special conditions for wholesale currency exchange – convenient for clients with large volumes of transactions seeking the most favorable offer.

The geographical expansion of KYT Group’s presence is aimed at providing Ukrainians with even wider access to services that meet the highest industry standards.

The new branch of the network in Dnipro city is decorated in the updated visual identity of the brand. This is part of the large-scale rebranding of KYT Group, which emphasizes the position of an innovative leader in the non-banking financial services market, which is constantly working to improve services and digital infrastructure and enhance customer experience, while remaining a reliable partner for Ukrainians in the field of foreign exchange transactions.

During 2024-2025, the KYT Group network is actively investing in expanding its geographical presence as a national leader in the currency exchange segment. New branches of the network were previously opened in Chernivtsi, Ivano-Frankivsk, Zhytomyr, Kamianske, Uman, Chernihiv, Dnipropetrovs’k and Kyiv regions.

REFERENCE

KYT Group is an international multiservice product-based FinTech platform with currency exchange as its flagship business. KYT Group is one of the largest operators of this segment in the Ukrainian financial market. According to data of the National Bank of Ukraine, KYT Group’s currency exchange network ranks first in the industry ranking in terms of taxes paid, capital, and business success in terms of financial results. The network of 98 exchange offices of KYT Group covers 31 of the largest cities of Ukraine and settlements with high business and economic activity. The company’s operations comply with the NBU’s regulatory requirements.

KYT Group’s long-term efforts to achieve leadership positions, improve services, customer and IT infrastructure have been recognized by the prestigious Banker Awards 2024 in the nomination Reliable Technology Partner for Exchange Operations”, as well as the award “Financial Market Leader” among non-bank financial institutions according to the “TOP-100. Ratings of the largest”.

 

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NBU last week significantly reduced sale of currency on interbank market

The National Bank of Ukraine (NBU) last week, almost in the absence of currency purchases, reduced its sale on the interbank market by $213.5 million, or 24.4% – to $661.1 million. According to the National Bank’s data on its website, the cash market recorded its first surplus of $2.8 million over the weekend and Monday, but in the following days dollar purchases again exceeded sales by $20-33 million daily.

The official hryvnia exchange rate fell slightly over the week – from 41.6409 UAH/$1 to 41.7341 UAH/$1, while due to the weakening of the dollar on the international market, the euro rose in price more strongly – from 48.7823 UAH/EUR1 to 49.1210 UAH/EUR1, and on July 2 reached a new record – 49.4093 UAH/EUR1.

In the cash market, the dollar appreciated by only 2 copecks on the results of the week. – to 41.6/41.7 UAH/$1, while the euro appreciated by up to 10 copecks. – 49.35/49.53 UAH/EUR1.

“Short-term (1-3 weeks) is likely to fluctuate within the range of 41.30-42.00 UAH/$1 without going beyond 42.10 UAH/$ in the absence of external shocks or short-term situational surges”, – predict experts of a major participant of the cash currency exchange market “KYT Group”.

In their opinion, medium-term (2-4 months) return to the levels of UAH 42.00-42.50/$1 is possible in case of strengthening of import demand, increase of budget payments or realization of risks with financing or change of expectations and moods of the population and market operators.

As for the euro, KYT Group believes that in the short term, taking into account external factors and stable demand, the euro exchange rate may head towards the corridor of UAH 49.00-49.50/EUR1 with a possible breakthrough to UAH 50.00/EUR1, if it receives additional external drivers.

Medium-term, the European currency is likely to go above UAH 50.00/EUR1, especially if the euro remains at a global high and the current international drivers of its growth are maintained.

“Keep your focus on the euro. If your business model provides for expenses or revenues in euro, it is worthwhile to revise the structure of currency risk already now, to put a margin of safety in contracts or to test possible scenarios of the exchange rate breakout above UAH 50/EUR1”, – the company believes.

Source: https://interfax.com.ua/news/projects/1083979.html

 

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NBU’s net currency interventions last week decreased by 8.4% to $585 million

The National Bank of Ukraine (NBU) reduced its currency sales on the interbank market by $53 million, or 8.4%, to $585.8 million last week, with almost no currency purchases, according to statistics on the regulator’s website. As noted by the NBU, it purchased $0.50 million worth of currency for the first time in two weeks.

Data published by the regulator during this period show that the balance was negative throughout last week, fluctuating from $11.3 million on Monday to $11.6 million on Tuesday, $13.2 million on Wednesday, and $8.5 million on Thursday.

The official hryvnia exchange rate fluctuated from 41.4018 UAH/$1 at the beginning of the week, on Wednesday the hryvnia devalued to 41.5566/$1, and by the end of the week the rate was 41.4466 UAH/$1.

On the cash market, the hryvnia exchange rate remained virtually unchanged at the end of the week: the buying rate was approximately 41.40 UAH/$1, and the selling rate was around 41.45 UAH/$1.

“The end of May 2025 is characterized by moderate stability in Ukraine’s currency market in the absence of shock changes, despite external turbulence and a complex geopolitical background. The national currency maintains a controlled exchange rate against the US dollar, while the euro/hryvnia pair continues to show increased volatility, which is associated with both global trends and internal structural shifts in the currency preferences of businesses and the population,” experts from KYT Group, a major player in the cash currency exchange market, described the situation.

In their opinion, in the medium term of 2-4 months, the dollar-hryvnia exchange rate will return to the range of 41.80-42.50 UAH/USD, provided that imports grow, domestic inflation rises, or significant signals regarding external financing are received.

In the long term, over 6+ months, KYT Group expects a likely movement towards 43.00-45.00 UAH/$1 or even higher.

The review is available at the link – https://interfax.com.ua/news/projects/1080324.html

 

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