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人民币国际化的新机遇
经济观察报·2025-07-07 12:11

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the potential for the Renminbi (RMB) to challenge the dominance of the US dollar in the context of a changing global trade and financial environment, particularly in the emerging G2 world [2][9]. Historical Context - Previous currencies like the Japanese Yen and Euro had opportunities to challenge the dollar but ultimately failed due to various economic and political factors [3][5][6]. - The Yen appreciated significantly from 1985 to 1989, but this did not lead to its status as a global reserve currency, highlighting that currency strength does not guarantee international acceptance [4][5]. - The Euro faced challenges from its inception, including the Eurozone debt crisis, which undermined its credibility as a reserve currency [6][10]. Characteristics of Global Reserve Currencies - A global reserve currency typically requires military power to ensure its dominance, as seen historically with currencies from Spain, the Netherlands, and the UK [7]. - The US dollar's status is supported by a favorable external environment post-World War II, characterized by globalization and reduced geopolitical conflicts [8]. - The concept of "seigniorage" allows the issuer of a reserve currency to benefit from printing money, but this is not an unlimited power, as evidenced by the US's current debt situation [8][11]. Current Situation of the Renminbi - The global interest in the RMB is increasing, driven by concerns over the US's weaponization of the dollar and the need for alternative financial systems [10][13]. - The RMB's role as a transaction currency is growing, but it still lacks the characteristics necessary for it to be a long-term reserve currency, such as liquidity and full convertibility [10][14]. - The RMB's internationalization is influenced by the relative decline of trust in the US and the rise of China's economic influence [13][14]. Future Outlook - The potential for the RMB to challenge the dollar's dominance is contingent on several factors, including the establishment of a robust RMB settlement network and the resolution of existing economic and policy risks [10][14]. - The transition to a multi-currency world may take time, as the dollar's dominance is deeply entrenched [14].