The National Bank of Ukraine has updated the official exchange rates for Tuesday, October 20, 2026. Compared to the previous banking day, both major currencies—the US dollar and the euro—demonstrated growth. The regulator recorded an increase in quotes amid ongoing pressure on the foreign exchange market related to business and importer expenses.
New Official Exchange Rates for October 20
On Tuesday, October 20, the NBU set the official dollar exchange rate at UAH 45.00 per unit. This is 14 kopecks higher than the figure for Monday, October 19, when the rate was UAH 44.86. The official euro exchange rate also rose: for October 20, it is set at UAH 50.53, which is 4 kopecks more than the previous day's value of UAH 50.49. Thus, both currencies increased in price, albeit with different dynamics.
Why the Dollar and Euro Are Getting More Expensive
According to Taras Lesovoy, Director of the Financial Markets and Investment Activity Department at Globus Bank, additional pressure on the foreign exchange market is created by the consequences of Russian attacks on Ukrainian businesses. Enterprises are forced to spend more funds on backup power, the restoration of damaged facilities, changing logistical routes, and building up reserves. These additional costs affect the economics of companies and can subsequently be partially reflected in prices, tying inflation pressure more closely to currency pressure.
Fuel and Importer Demand
A separate factor, according to the banker's assessment, is the situation with fuel. Its appreciation or the complication of supplies can increase the demand for foreign currency from energy importers. This further fuels demand for foreign currency and supports its quotes at an elevated level.
The Role of the National Bank in Market Stabilization
Under these conditions, one of the key factors for the stability of the currency market next week will be the National Bank's ability to respond in a timely manner to demand and smooth out its impact on the exchange rate. It is the regulator's actions to balance supply and demand that determine how smooth the dynamics of official and cash exchange rates will be in the coming banking days.
