The Economy of Zimbabwe
Bond Notes, RTGS and the ZiG
Since 2016, Zimbabwe has repeatedly reintroduced local currencies, most recently the gold-backed ZiG in 2024, with mixed success.
A cycle of currency experiments.
Bond notes
In 2016 the government issued notes pegged to the dollar but not accepted at par.
ZWL
A new Zimbabwe dollar in 2019 lost value quickly.
ZiG
In 2024, the Zimbabwe Gold currency was launched, backed by gold and foreign exchange reserves.
Trust
Households still prefer US dollars for savings and large transactions.
Two prices
Shops quote prices in dollars and in local currency, at different rates.
Expecting a currency to work without trust
Credibility is essential.
Key takeaways
- Bond notes came in 2016.
- ZWL lost value.
- ZiG launched in 2024.
- Dollars remain preferred.
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