Standard Chartered reports accelerating global adoption of the Chinese yuan during the first quarter of 2026, according to the bank’s updated Renminbi Globalisation Index. Economist Tommy Wu notes the index recorded increased RMB usage across international transactions during February through April compared to the final months of 2025, signaling renewed momentum for China’s currency internationalization efforts.
The uptick comes as Beijing continues pushing to expand yuan settlement in cross-border trade and investment, reducing reliance on the US dollar for global commerce. Financial institutions and multinational corporations conducting business with Chinese counterparties are seeing expanded opportunities for yuan-denominated transactions. The trend could accelerate demand for RMB liquidity facilities and hedging products among international banks and corporate treasuries.
Market participants should monitor whether this trajectory continues through mid-2026, particularly as geopolitical tensions and trade fragmentation drive countries toward alternative payment systems. The index data suggests growing comfort with yuan exposure among global market participants.
FXnCO Insight
Brokers and forex desks should prepare for increased client demand for CNH products and yuan hedging instruments as internationalization accelerates.
Source: FXStreet