Currency rates on August 18, 2026: dollar stable, euro rises — how the NBU keeps the hryvnia steady

The National Bank of Ukraine updated the official currency rates for Tuesday, August 18, 2026. The US dollar remained virtually unchanged at 44.69 UAH per 1 USD, which is 1 kopeck lower than the previous value. Meanwhile, the euro continued to strengthen: its rate reached 51.80 UAH, which is 10 kopecks higher than the figure on August 17. These figures reflect the current dynamics of the currency market and confirm the effectiveness of the "managed flexibility" policy pursued by the regulator.

Dollar stability and euro growth: what lies behind the numbers

The 1 kopeck drop in the dollar's rate is not a coincidence but the result of targeted actions by the NBU. Experts note that even amid increased demand for cash currency, especially ahead of seasonal payments and tax periods, the regulator successfully smooths out sharp fluctuations. Meanwhile, the 10 kopeck rise in the euro is linked to global factors: the weakening of the US dollar in world markets and the strengthening of the eurozone amid the recovery of the EU economy.

"Managed flexibility" policy: how the NBU controls the market

As Taras Lesovoy, Director of the Financial Markets and Investment Activities Department of Globus Bank, noted, the key factor in stability remains the National Bank's policy. "The 'managed flexibility' regime allows the NBU to smooth out excessive exchange rate movements without pegging the hryvnia to a single fixed mark," the expert emphasized. This means that the hryvnia is not rigidly fixed, nor is it subject to chaotic spikes. The NBU uses interventions, liquidity regulation, and market communication to maintain balance.

Contradictory data

While most sources (RBC-Ukraine, UNIAN, TSN) agree with the NBU's data on the rate for August 18, some analysts from private banking structures point to discrepancies in real exchange rates at currency exchange offices. For example, according to Korrespondent, in several major banks, the dollar rate in the cash segment was 2–3 kopecks higher than the official one, and the euro was 5–7 kopecks higher. This creates a situation where the official rate and market reality do not always coincide. The NBU, in turn, insists that the official rate is a benchmark for calculations and should not fully duplicate market quotes.

What will happen to the rate in the coming days?

Experts do not predict sharp changes in the coming days. It is expected that the dollar will remain in the range of 44.65–44.75 UAH, and the euro — within 51.75–51.90 UAH. The euro's growth may continue if the eurozone shows signs of accelerating economic growth or if the US Federal Reserve maintains a tight monetary policy. However, the NBU seems ready for additional measures if pressure on the hryvnia intensifies. It is important to note that in 2026, the market has become more mature, and volatility has decreased compared to previous years.

Impact on the population and business

For the population, rate stability means predictability of expenses on imported goods and services. For business — the ability to plan budgets without the risk of sharp losses. This is especially important for exporters and importers working with dollars and euros. The rise in the euro may increase the cost of imports from the EU, but at the same time make Ukrainian exports to Europe more competitive. Overall, the current situation is assessed as favorable for macroeconomic stability.