This article overviews the background for financial dollarization in Ukraine. We apply quantitative techniques including both minimum variance portfolio and peer comparison taking into consideration country-specific characteristics to derive an estimated natural dollarization level for Ukraine. The study also discusses potential ways for Ukraine to converge to its natural level, which we estimate at 20%. Additional factors indicate dollarization in the range of 20-30% as realistic medium-term policy goal.
The National Bank of Ukraine stepped on the track to a cashless economy aiming at reforming the financial system, improvement of the transmission mechanism, and reduction of the underground economy and corruption. A substantial part of money in the Ukrainian economy is estimated to be foreign cash in circulation. This article underlines the importance of considering it while conducting monetary policy. Negative consequences of high dollarization and proliferation of cash are emphasized. We discuss measures that are helpful in decreasing usage of cash in general and foreign cash in particular.
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