20/05/2018: SAMA grants licenses for full-fledged digital banks
SAMA issued licenses to two banks for providing digital banking services, reflecting a shift towards digitalization in the financial sector.
21/12/2016: Saudi Arabia introduces the SAR 200 note
A new 200 riyal banknote was introduced, featuring a portrait of King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al Saud.
01/01/2011: Replacement of Paper Banknotes with Polymer Banknotes
Panama replaced the paper banknotes with polymer banknotes to enhance durability and security of the Balboa currency.
20/12/2003: Launch of Riyal Interbank Express (SARIE)
SAMA launched SARIE, a real-time gross settlement system, improving interbank transactions and money transfers.
27/05/1997: Introduction of Saudi Arabian Monetary Agency new design series
SAMA introduced a new series of banknotes with enhanced security features to combat counterfeiting.
30/06/1986: Saudi riyal pegged to the US dollar at 3.75 SAR per USD
Saudi Arabia pegged its currency to the USD, ensuring stability and ease of trade with international partners.
31/03/1983: Currency Control Law Implemented
Panama implemented a currency control law to regulate the use and circulation of the Balboa and prevent counterfeiting.
01/03/1952: Introduction of Saudi Arabian Monetary Agency (SAMA)
SAMA was established as the central bank of Saudi Arabia, responsible for issuing and managing the Saudi riyal.
15/10/1941: First Issue of Panamanian Balboa Banknotes
The first series of paper banknotes denominated in Balboa were issued by the Panamanian Currency Board.
01/10/1941: Introduction of the Balboa as Legal Tender
The Panamanian government introduced the Balboa as a legal tender, equivalent in value to the US dollar.
23/09/1932: Establishment of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
The Saudi riyal currency was introduced following the unification of the Kingdom under King Abdulaziz Al Saud.
01/10/1908: Creation of Panamanian Currency Board
The Panamanian Currency Board was established to issue paper money and stabilize the monetary system.
01/01/1907: Use of US Dollar in Panama
The US dollar became the official currency of Panama due to the presence of American workers during the canal construction.
18/11/1904: Panama Canal Construction Begins
The construction of the Panama Canal started, which would later lead to the need for a national currency.