Dominance of the US Dollar and Euro

The world’s reserve currency system remains heavily reliant on the US dollar and the euro. As of early 2026, the US dollar constitutes approximately 58% of global reserves, representing roughly $6.6 trillion held by central banks worldwide.

The euro holds the second-largest share, accounting for nearly 20% of global reserves, or about $2.3 trillion. This firmly establishes the euro as the second most important reserve currency globally.

Established Currencies and Emerging Players

The Japanese yen and British pound collectively represent around 11% of global reserves, reflecting their ancient financial stability and well-developed markets. These currencies continue to play a significant role in international finance.

Other currencies, including the Canadian dollar, Australian dollar, and Swiss franc, hold smaller, yet notable, shares of global reserves. However, despite increasing prominence in global trade and finance, the Chinese yuan currently represents just over 2% of total global reserves.

The Rise of the Yuan: A Gradual Process

While the Chinese yuan’s influence is growing, its adoption as a reserve currency remains limited. This comparatively small share underscores the challenges China faces in establishing the yuan as a major player in the global financial system. Continued economic reforms and increased financial market access will be crucial for the yuan to gain further traction.