ADBs’ foreign exchange purchases rise as kwacha remains stable
Foreign exchange trading activity showed increased momentum towards the end of November, with Authorized Dealer Banks (ADBs) recording higher purchases in both weekly and daily transactions, according to the latest Reserve Bank of Malawi (RBM) figures released on December 2, 2025.
Monthly statistics indicate that ADBs purchased US$76.32 million in November, up from US$65.58 million in September, though slightly below October’s US$81.88 million. Sales for November stood at US$46.59 million.
Weekly performance between 21–28 November showed a significant jump, with purchases rising to US$17.38 million from US$13.32 million the previous week. Sales also increased to US$9.67 million, up from US$6.92 million.
According to the Central Bank publication, the daily trading figures reveal continued activity at the close of the month, with ADBs purchasing US$5.83 million on 2 December compared to US$4.82 million the day before.
Meanwhile, the Malawi kwacha remained relatively stable against major trading currencies. On 1 December, the local currency traded at K1, 750.06 to the US dollar on the middle rate, before stabilising at K1, 734.01 on 2 December’s indicative rate.
Comparing it against the British pound, the kwacha appreciated slightly from K2, 383.56 on 1 December to K2, 364.17 on Tuesday, 2 December.
The local unit also strengthened marginally against the euro, moving from K2, 092.51 to K2, 079.83 over the same period.
The South African rand showed minimal movement, with the kwacha trading at K105.79 on 1 December and K104.53 on 2 December.
Overall, the data suggests increased foreign exchange activity by ADBs and slight appreciation of the kwacha across key currencies.
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