A Comprehensive Guide to Buying Renminbi Currency

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People Exchanging Money
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Buying renminbi currency can be a bit overwhelming, especially for first-timers. You can buy renminbi from a bank or a currency exchange office.

To buy renminbi from a bank, you'll need to have an account with them and meet their requirements. Some banks may require you to be a customer for a certain amount of time or have a minimum balance.

You can also buy renminbi from a currency exchange office, which is often more convenient than a bank. They usually have longer hours and are located in tourist areas.

Before buying renminbi, it's essential to check the exchange rate and any fees associated with the transaction. This will help you make an informed decision and avoid any surprises.

Curious to learn more? Check out: Who Is Buying Bitcoins

What You Need to Know

Buying renminbi currency can be a bit tricky, but don't worry, I've got you covered.

You can buy renminbi currency from authorized banks in China, such as the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China, or from online currency exchange services like TransferWise.

A fresh viewpoint: Renminbi

20 Banknote on White Table
Credit: pexels.com, 20 Banknote on White Table

It's essential to use a reputable exchange service to avoid losing your money to scams.

Renminbi currency can be purchased in various denominations, including 10, 20, 50, and 100 yuan notes, as well as 1 and 5 yuan coins.

You can also exchange your money at airports or major train stations in China, but be prepared for long lines and limited exchange rates.

The renminbi is the official currency of China and is subdivided into 100 fen.

Renminbi currency can be used to make purchases at most stores, restaurants, and hotels in China, but some high-end businesses may still accept foreign currencies like the US dollar.

It's a good idea to have some local currency with you when you arrive in China, rather than relying on credit cards or ATMs.

Keep in mind that some businesses may not accept credit cards or foreign currencies, so it's always a good idea to have some cash on hand.

The exchange rate for renminbi currency can fluctuate depending on the market, so it's a good idea to check the current exchange rate before making a purchase.

Buying RMB in the USA

A close-up of hands exchanging paper money between two people outdoors.
Credit: pexels.com, A close-up of hands exchanging paper money between two people outdoors.

If you're planning a trip to China, getting your Chinese yuan (RMB) sorted out before you go is a must. You can buy RMB in the USA through various methods, each with its conveniences and drawbacks.

Prepaid travel money cards are a convenient option, but you'll need to compare rates to find the best one for your situation. Some travel money cards waive foreign transaction fees, making them a great choice for frequent travelers.

To buy RMB at an ATM, look for one that waives foreign transaction fees. Some banks, like Wells Fargo, offer travel money services at major branches, but be aware that they may charge fees and offer conversion rate markups.

You can also buy RMB online through a foreign currency exchange service, but be sure to research the best options for your needs. Some online services offer more competitive rates and better exchange rates than traditional banks.

Two businessmen in suits exchanging money with smiles in a modern office environment.
Credit: pexels.com, Two businessmen in suits exchanging money with smiles in a modern office environment.

Here are some popular options for buying RMB in the USA:

Investors looking to buy RMB should be aware that many ETFs and ETNs offering exposure to the Chinese yuan have been liquidated and delisted over the past few years. As of 2024, options may be limited, making it harder to invest in the yuan through these routes.

Buying RMB Online

Buying RMB online is a convenient option, and you can order Chinese yuan online and collect it at your local store or airport before you fly. This way, you can lock in the rate and avoid any last-minute hassles.

There are several online foreign currency exchange services that offer competitive rates, such as Xchange of America, which delivers to your home. To get the best rate, use comparison tools and review options, focusing on better exchange rates.

You can also consider using a travel money card like Wise, which has a one-time $9 fee and uses mid-market exchange rates with low, transparent fees in over 150 countries. This can be a great option for frequent travelers.

A man in a yellow jacket and a woman exchange money indoors while wearing masks.
Credit: pexels.com, A man in a yellow jacket and a woman exchange money indoors while wearing masks.

To order Chinese yuan online, you'll need to provide your shipping address and pay via card or bank transfer. Some services, like CXI, offer varied fees and possible price matching in some locations.

Here are some options to consider:

Keep in mind that some services may have additional fees or restrictions, so be sure to review the terms and conditions before making a purchase.

Buying RMB in China

If you plan to exchange cash for RMB upon arrival in China, be sure to carry your passport with you to facilitate the exchange process.

You can find exchange establishments by looking for the sign mentioned above.

Remember to exchange your local currency for RMB in an authorized establishment to avoid any issues.

What is China's Currency?

China's currency is the renminbi, commonly referred to as the yuan. It's abbreviated as CNY or RMB, and its official name literally means 'people's currency'.

The People's Bank of China is the central bank responsible for managing the renminbi. It was established in 1948 and has been issuing the currency ever since.

Three businessmen exchanging money in a modern office with financial charts.
Credit: pexels.com, Three businessmen exchanging money in a modern office with financial charts.

You'll often see the yuan symbol ¥ (Yuan) used to represent the currency. It's also known as the 'yuan' in countries outside of China.

The most commonly used bills for Chinese yuan are the ¥1, ¥5, ¥10, ¥20, ¥50, and ¥100 notes. These are widely accepted and can be easily exchanged in Hong Kong and Macau.

Here are the most commonly used bank notes for Chinese yuan:

Coins are also used in China, with the most common ones being the 1角, 5角, and ¥1 coins.

Buy in China

If you plan to exchange cash for yuan upon arrival in China, look for the establishment displaying the sign that indicates a foreign exchange service.

Carrying your passport along with your local currency will facilitate the exchange process.

You can also consider using a travel money card, which is a prepaid debit card that holds the local currency of your destination, in this case, Chinese yuan.

Assorted Banknotes
Credit: pexels.com, Assorted Banknotes

Travel money cards can be topped up with your home currency and converted to yuan, making it easy to pay like a local.

Some user-friendly fintech apps like Revolut offer superior rates compared to banks and bureau de change kiosks.

Revolut's multi-currency account supports 25 other currencies besides USD, and it offers some of the best exchange rates on the market.

Revolut charges an industry-low margin on the exchange rate, ranging from 0.4% to 2%, which can be waived with a paid plan subscription.

Money Changer Kiosks

Money Changer Kiosks are a convenient option for exchanging RMB, but beware of their high exchange rate margins. They can charge you upwards of 7% to 20%+ in hidden costs, even if they advertise "no commission".

These kiosks are often located in cities and tourist attractions, making them easily accessible. However, it's recommended to use a bank ATM instead, especially with a prepaid travel card or a debit card that waives foreign transaction fees.

Person Counting Cash Money
Credit: pexels.com, Person Counting Cash Money

In fact, online reviews suggest that Money Changer Kiosks tend to treat their customers poorly, charging high fees and offering unfavorable exchange rates. It's best to avoid them and opt for a more reliable option.

Here are some alternatives to consider:

Overall, while Money Changer Kiosks may seem like a convenient option, their high fees and unfavorable exchange rates make them a less desirable choice.

Travel and Currency

If you're planning a trip to China, it's a good idea to buy yuan before you travel, as you'll have the local currency ready for your journey. You can exchange your money for yuan cash at Travelex.

To find a store near you, simply click on the "Find a Store" link. You can also contact Travelex directly for more information.

If you're looking for a more convenient option, consider ordering a travel money card like Wise or Revolut. These cards allow you to spend your Chinese yuan balance without extra fees once you arrive at your destination.

Artistic illustration of hands exchanging money on a vibrant purple background, symbolizing finance and business.
Credit: pexels.com, Artistic illustration of hands exchanging money on a vibrant purple background, symbolizing finance and business.

Here's a comparison of the two cards:

These cards are secure, affordable, and easy to use, making them a great option for managing your money while traveling.

Buy Before Traveling

Before you travel, it's a good idea to exchange your money for yuan cash to have the local currency ready for your journey in China. This way, you won't have to worry about finding an ATM or currency exchange once you arrive.

You can exchange your money at Travelex, a reliable place to get the yuan you need. They have a store locator on their website, so you can find a location near you.

To get started, visit the Travelex website and click on "Find a Store" to find a location near you. You can also contact them directly through their website if you have any questions.

If you're planning to travel to China in the future, you can track the exchange rates and get notified when the yuan renminbi matches your ideal rate. This way, you can decide if it's a good time to buy.

Euro currency banknote.
Credit: pexels.com, Euro currency banknote.

Here are some options to consider when buying Chinese Yuan Renminbi:

  • Travelex: Exchanging your money at Travelex ensures you have the local currency ready for your journey.
  • Foreign Currency Exchange Offices: You can buy yuan in person at an exchange office with USD cash or a card.

Keep in mind that exchange offices may have varying rates and markups, so it's a good idea to compare options before making a decision.

Get Travel Money Card

Getting a travel money card is a great way to manage your finances while traveling abroad. You can order a travel money card like Wise or Revolut in the U.S., add money in USD, and convert it to Chinese Yuan Renminbi (China's currency) within your multi-currency account.

These cards are secure, affordable, and easy to use. They offer instant official currency exchange or automatic conversion when you pay. You can start using a digital card immediately, even before the physical card arrives.

Wise and Revolut are popular options for travel money cards. Both cards charge no spending fees if you have enough balance in the currency. However, Wise charges a fee of $1.50 plus 2% for withdrawals after two free withdrawals up to $100 per month. Revolut offers some withdrawals within plan limits without any charges, with fair usage fees applying afterward.

Banknotes on White Surface
Credit: pexels.com, Banknotes on White Surface

Here's a comparison of Wise and Revolut:

Revolut also offers some free weekday conversions within plan limits. The Wise card uses mid-market rates with conversion fees starting from 0.35%. Revolut allows some free weekday conversions within plan limits.

Card delivery for both Wise and Revolut takes around 14-21 days and 7-8 days respectively, with an instant virtual card option available for both.

Investing in RMB

Investing in RMB can be done through exchange traded funds (ETFs) designed to track the value of the Chinese currency. Unfortunately, many of these options have been liquidated and delisted over the past few years.

As of 2024, investors will have a harder time investing in RMB through ETFs or ETNs. This is because many of these products have been taken off the market, limiting investment opportunities.

Investors should be aware of these challenges when considering investing in RMB through ETFs or ETNs.

The Case for Investment

Investing in the Chinese yuan, also known as the RMB, has been a bumpy ride since 2015. The People's Bank of China's surprise devaluation of the yuan that year spooked investors and sent the currency into a tailspin.

Positive senior businessman in formal suit and eyeglasses counting money bills while sitting at wooden table with cup of beverage and near opened laptop
Credit: pexels.com, Positive senior businessman in formal suit and eyeglasses counting money bills while sitting at wooden table with cup of beverage and near opened laptop

In 2015, the price of a dollar was around 6.20 yuan. This means that for every dollar invested, you could buy more yuan back then than you can today.

The trend of the yuan's decline against the dollar has continued, with the central bank being more cautious in its management of the currency. However, this caution has not stopped the yuan's value from dropping further.

Today, more than 7.20 yuan are needed to buy a dollar, a significant increase from the 6.20 yuan needed in 2015.

Investing in Yuan Through ETFs or ETNs

Investing in the yuan through exchange traded funds (ETFs) or exchange traded notes (ETNs) is another way to gain exposure to the Chinese currency.

Unfortunately, many ETFs and ETNs offering exposure to the Chinese yuan have been liquidated and delisted over the past few years.

As of 2024, investors will have a harder time going down this route.

Options may still exist, but it's essential to do your research and explore available alternatives.

Investors will need to carefully evaluate their options and consider the liquidity and volatility of the remaining ETFs or ETNs.

For your interest: Us Dollar vs China Yen

Joan Lowe-Schiller

Assigning Editor

Joan Lowe-Schiller serves as an Assigning Editor, overseeing a diverse range of architectural and design content. Her expertise lies in Brazilian architecture, a passion that has led to in-depth coverage of the region's innovative structures and cultural influences. Under her guidance, the publication has expanded its reach, offering readers a deeper understanding of the architectural landscape in Brazil.

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