NBE Sells $640 Million to Banks in January as FX Interventions Ramp Up

As reported by Finance in Africa

Summary

• The National Bank of Ethiopia sold $640 million to commercial banks in January 2026 alone, through a combination of regular weekly auctions and the record $500 million special operation. This amount represents 82% of the total $780 million sold throughout the entire calendar year 2025.
• The sharp increase in FX interventions was supported by stronger export receipts and external inflows. Ethiopia's export earnings exceeded $5 billion in the first half of the 2025/26 fiscal year, and the IMF's fourth review completion unlocked additional external financing.
• The birr traded at a relatively steady 154.8 per dollar at every auction held in early 2026, following an 8.1% slide in the first quarter of the fiscal year. The stability suggests that increased dollar supply is beginning to offset depreciation pressure.
• For BirrValue users, higher FX volumes flowing through official channels benefit anyone converting or receiving foreign currency through banks. More liquidity typically means tighter spreads and faster processing. Compare rates across banks on [BirrValue](/banks) and check [Send Money](/send-money) for remittance options.