Where Pesos Are Used: Everything You Need to Learn

The peso is a common currency name in several countries, mainly in nations throughout Latin America as well as the Philippines. In all, eight countries use their version of a peso

What is a Peso?

Reflecting historical connections to the Spanish Empire, the name “Peso” comes from the Spanish word for "weight,." Most contemporary pesos can trace their origins back to the Spanish dollar, or what was once called a "piece of eight."

What Countries Use Pesos?

The eight countries which use pesos are: Mexico, Argentina, Chile, Colombia, Cuba, The Philippines, the Dominican Republic, and Uruguay. Let’s take a look at the significance of the peso in each of these countries.

1. Mexico

Mexico has one of the most recognized currencies using the name peso. The Mexican Peso (MXN) has its origins in the Spanish colonial period of Mexico’s history, which lasted from the early 16th – early 19th centuries. At this time, the Spanish dollar circulated widely in the Americas. After Spain withdrew from Mexico, it adopted its own version of the peso as its official currency in 1823. The modern Mexican Peso underwent a major revaluation in 1993, when the "nuevo peso" (new peso) was introduced, with 1 new peso equaling 1,000 old pesos.

Today, the Mexican peso is the 15th most traded currency in the world and the most traded currency in Latin America. With the second largest economy in Latin America, Mexico plays a crucial role in regional trade and finance, making the Mexican Peso an important factor of the economy.

2. Argentina

Argentina’s first peso was introduced in 1826, shortly after it achieved independence from colonial rule. The country’s currency has undergone various incarnations and re-denominations over the last two centuries since then, due to the country's history of hyperinflation and economic instability. The current peso, the Argentine Peso (ARS), was introduced in 1992 after a series of previous currencies failed.

Despite issues with economic volatility, high inflation, and debt crises, Argentina's economy is one of the largest in Latin America. It remains a key player in both agriculture and natural resources.

3. Chile

The Chilean Peso (CLP) was first introduced in 1817 after Chile declared independence from Spain. The original peso underwent various changes and reintroductions before the current peso was re-established in 1975.

Chile's economy is now considered one of the most stable and prosperous in Latin America. The country is the world's largest producer of copper, a significant source of revenue. The Chilean Peso benefits from this economic stability, although it can be affected by fluctuations in global copper prices.

4. Colombia

The Colombian peso (COP) has been the country's official currency since 1810, after gaining independence from Spain. It replaced the real, the currency in use during the colonial period.

Colombia has a diverse economy with major sectors including oil, mining, agriculture, and manufacturing. The peso is relatively stable, but like many other emerging market currencies, it can be vulnerable to external shocks, particularly changes in oil prices and political instability.

5. Cuba

For the past three decades, Cuba used two currencies: the Cuban Peso (CUP) and the Cuban Convertible Peso (CUC). The CUP was primarily used by locals, while the CUC, which was pegged to the US Dollar, was introduced to facilitate tourism and international trade, creating a two-tiered pricing system within the country. In 2021, Cuba began phasing out the CUC, leaving Cuba with one primary currency, the CUP.

Cuba's economy is centrally planned and heavily dependent on tourism, remittances, and international aid. The dual currency system was originally designed to address economic disparities and attract foreign currency, but it also created complexities in the economy. The ongoing reforms aim to simplify the monetary system and improve economic efficiency.

6. Dominican Republic

The Dominican peso (DOP) has been the official currency since 1844, following the country's independence from Haiti. The currency has experienced various reforms and stabilizations over the years.

The Dominican Republic's economy is one of the fastest-growing in the Caribbean, and one of the largest overall in the Caribbean, driven by tourism, manufacturing, mining, and agriculture. The Dominican Peso has remained relatively stable, benefiting from steady economic growth and foreign investment, particularly in tourism and real estate.

7. Philippines

The Philippine Peso (PHP) has its origins in the Spanish colonial period (1565 – 1898). The Spanish real circulated in the archipelago until the modern peso was introduced in 1852. It has undergone various changes and re-denominations since then.

The Philippines has a mixed economy with strong sectors in services, manufacturing, and agriculture. The peso is relatively stable but can be affected by external factors such as remittances from overseas Filipino workers and global economic conditions. The country has seen steady economic growth in recent years, bolstered by a young and growing population.

8. Uruguay

The Uruguayan Peso (UYU) was introduced in 1896, replacing the previous currency, the Uruguayan peso fuerte. It has undergone various reforms and re-denominations, most notably in the early 1970s.

Uruguay's economy is characterized by a strong agricultural sector, particularly in beef and soybeans, and a growing services sector. The peso is relatively secure compared to other South American currencies, reflecting the country's stable political environment and prudent economic policies.

Economic Stability and Volatility

While some countries that use pesos, like Chile and Uruguay, maintain relatively stable currencies, others like Argentina and Cuba have faced significant challenges. Hyperinflation, political instability, and external economic shocks are common issues that affect the value of the peso in these countries.

Global Economic Integration

Countries using the peso are increasingly integrated into the global economy. For instance, Mexico and Chile are key players in global trade, while the Philippines relies heavily on remittances from its diaspora. This integration brings opportunities for growth but of course also exposes these economies to global market fluctuations.

Digital and Technological Adaptations

In our increasingly digital world, many countries that use the peso have adapted with digital / technological innovations. Several countries, like Mexico, Argentina, and Chile, have established, flourishing fintech industries that allow for digital banking, lending, trading, and payments. Digital wallets are also popular in peso-using countries, and many of them are exploring cryptocurrency and blockchain platforms as well.

International Recognition and Exchange

Most forms of pesos are recognized internationally, though some, like the Argentinian Peso may not be accepted as widely. Others, like the Cuban Peso have more limited recognition worldwide. However, most pesos are generally accepted for exchange in regions with economic ties to the issuing country or significant expatriate populations. Major financial institutions, currency exchange bureaus, and tourist destinations usually facilitate the exchange of pesos for travelers and individuals conducting international transactions.

Sharemoney sends money to nearly all the world’s nations that use a peso. If you plan to travel or stay in a country that uses the peso, or if you need to send money to those living in a peso-using country, check out Sharemoney’s services to see how we can make your money transfers easier, with our fast and safe service.

Conclusion

A significant currency name in various countries, the peso reflects a shared colonial history and diverse economic landscapes. While each country's experience with the peso differs, common themes of historical influence, economic stability, and global integration emerge. Understanding these contexts provides insight into the complex dynamics that shape the value and stability of the peso across different nations. If you need to send or receive money in pesos, Sharemoney may be able to assist you with your needs.