01/01/2021: Launch of a digital currency pilot program
Qatar announced the launch of a pilot program to test the use of a digital currency as part of its efforts to introduce blockchain technology in the financial sector.
05/06/2017: Qatar diplomatic crisis affects the currency
Following the diplomatic crisis and blockade imposed by neighboring countries, the Qatari rial faced volatility and depreciated against major currencies.
23/06/2016: Brexit Referendum
The United Kingdom voted to leave the European Union, causing significant uncertainty and volatility in the pound sterling's value.
27/05/2015: Qatari rial pegged to a basket of currencies
The Qatari rial's peg was diversified to include a basket of currencies, reducing its dependence on the US dollar.
08/06/2001: Creation of the Qatar Central Bank
The Qatar Central Bank was established to replace the Qatar Currency Board and assume the responsibility of regulating the Qatari rial.
31/12/1999: Establishment of the Euro
The euro was introduced as an electronic currency, paving the way for the eventual replacement of some national currencies, including the pound.
27/07/1997: Qatar Currency Board established
The Qatar Currency Board was established to regulate the issuance and circulation of the Qatari rial and maintain its stability.
16/09/1992: Black Wednesday
The pound sterling experienced a severe drop in value and the UK was forced to withdraw from the European Exchange Rate Mechanism (ERM).
27/03/1976: Currency pegged to the US Dollar
The Qatari rial was pegged to the US dollar at a fixed exchange rate of 1 USD = 3.64 QAR to stabilize its value and promote trade.
24/06/1973: Introduction of Qatari Rial
Qatar officially introduced the Qatari rial as its currency, replacing the Gulf rupee at a rate of 1 rial = 1.65 rupees.
14/02/1971: Decimalization of the Pound
The pound sterling was decimalized, with the old system of pounds, shillings and pence replaced by a decimal currency.
06/12/1921: Currency Separation with Ireland
Following the Anglo-Irish Treaty, Ireland left the United Kingdom and established its own currency, leading to separate pound sterling notes.
21/12/1816: Gold Standard Introduced
The pound sterling was officially placed on the gold standard, meaning it was backed by a fixed amount of gold.
27/07/1694: Bank of England Established
The Bank of England was founded and granted a royal charter, becoming the central bank of England.