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The value of unity

25th anniversary of the euro

On 1 January 1999, 11 EU countries fixed their exchange rates, agreed to follow a single monetary policy entrusted to the European Central Bank, and launched their new common currency on world financial markets. 

Today, the euro is one of the most important currencies in the world, the official currency of 20 EU countries, used by about 350 million people every day.  

Euro notes and coins are a tangible, everyday reminder of the freedom, convenience and opportunities that being part of the European Union makes possible. 

The euro makes it easy to… 

Save and invest with confidence

The euro is a stable currency, so you can spend money safely and borrow and invest with confidence. 

Save an invest

Travel

As a single currency shared by 20 EU countries, the euro has made it easier and cheaper to travel in the euro area. 

Travel

Do business 

The euro makes it easier, cheaper and safer for businesses to buy and sell across the euro area and to trade with the rest of the world. Almost 60% of exports of goods outside the euro area, and around half of the imports of goods in the euro area are invoiced in euros. 

Business

Go shopping 

The euro makes it easier and cheaper to compare prices and shop abroad. A common currency supports a more transparent and competitive EU single market.

Go shopping

 

Work, study or retire abroad 

The euro lowers the costs of travelling and transferring money so that moving to another country to work, study or retire has never been simpler. 

 Work, study or retire abroad

Want to know more?

Check out these websites for news, events and more information about the euro!