01/10/2022: Transition to digital currency
Gibraltar announced the introduction of a digital currency pegged 1:1 to the Gibraltar pound, making it one of the first jurisdictions to do so.
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.
15/08/2019: Commencement of polymer £50 issuance
Polymer £50 banknotes were introduced, replacing the older paper £50 notes.
26/06/2018: New £100 banknote issued
A new £100 banknote featuring the image of Sir Joshua Hassan, first Chief Minister of Gibraltar, was issued.
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.
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.
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.
06/11/1988: Introduction of polymer banknotes
Polymer banknotes were introduced in Gibraltar, enhancing durability and counterfeit resilience.
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.
15/02/1971: Currency tied to British pound
The Gibraltar pound became pegged to the British pound at a rate of 1:1, ensuring stability and ease of trade.
23/06/1969: Currency switch to decimalization
Gibraltar switched from the pound shilling pence system to a decimalized currency, with 100 pence equal to 1 pound.
07/03/1927: Introduction of Gibraltar pound
The Gibraltar pound was first introduced as the official currency of Gibraltar, replacing the Spanish peseta.