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USD to ZAR 2026 Forecasts

Analysis of recent dollar → rand forecasts for 2026. We collate forecasts from respected FX analysts together with the latest US dollar to South African rand performance and trends.

 

The USD/ZAR exchange rate is currently bearish, trading near 90-day lows around 16.57, which is significantly below its 3-month average of 17.1.

Key drivers include the expected interest rate cuts by the Federal Reserve, which may weaken the USD as early as mid-2026. On the other hand, a projected economic growth of 1.4% for South Africa in 2026, supported by better electricity supply, could bolster the ZAR. Additionally, the South African Reserve Bank’s easing monetary policy aims to keep inflation in check, which may enhance ZAR strength.

In the near-term, the USD/ZAR is likely to trade within a tight range, reflecting current price stability. Upside risks could come from unexpected improvements in global economic conditions, while downside risks may arise from further USD selling pressure and a downturn in global commodity prices, particularly oil, which has seen volatility recently.

USD-ZAR Rate Calculator

 
   
   
   
   
 
   
 
 

USD to ZAR Market Data

US dollar (USD) to South African rand (ZAR) market data - latest interbank exchange rate, trend, chart & historic rates.

 
Sell USD   →   Buy ZAR
1 USD =
16.57We compare provider deals to this wholesale mid-market rate. Read more
ZAR
1d−0.2%▼
90dLows◒
USD to ZAR is at 90-day lows near 16.57, 3.1% below its 3-month average of 17.1, having traded in a quite stable 5.9% range from 16.57 to 17.54
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  1 ZAR = 0.060352 USD

Compare & Save - US dollar to South African rand

Exchange rates can vary significantly between different currency exchange providers, so it's important to compare US dollar (USD) to South African rand (ZAR) rates from different sources before making a conversion.

Use our USD to ZAR calculator to see how much you could save on your international money transfers. makes it easy to compare the Total Cost you are being charged on Dollar to Rand currency rates and the possible savings of using various providers.

 
 

Will the US dollar rise against the South African rand?

This is always a difficult question as exchange rates are influenced by many factors, so a good method to consider the US dollar vs South African rand current value is to look the USD/ZAR historic rate and change over a range of periods.

The following table looks at the change in the USD to ZAR exchange rate over periods from the previous week back to the last 10 years.

DateUSD/ZARChangePeriod
17 Dec 2025
16.77
1% ▼2 Week
02 Oct 2025
17.28
3.9% ▼3 Month
31 Dec 2024
18.90
12.1% ▼1 Year
01 Jan 2021
14.66
13.3% ▲5 Year
03 Jan 2016
15.47
7.4% ▲10 Year
05 Jan 2006
6.1499
170.1% ▲20 Year
USD/ZAR historic rates & change to 31-Dec-2025

It is almost impossible to predict what an exchange rate will do in the future, the best approach is to monitor the currency markets and transact when an exchange rate moves in your favour.

To help with this you can add USD/ZAR to your personalised Rate Tracker to track and benefit from currency movements.

 
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Rather than requiring you to set a target rate, our Rate Alerts keep you informed of recent trends and movements of currency pairs.

Add rates to your Rate Tracker and select to receive an daily email (mon-fri) or when a rate is trending

 

Forecasts disclaimer: Please be advised that the forecasts and analysis of market data presented on BestExchangeRates.com are solely a review and compilation of forecasts from various market experts and economists. These forecasts are not meant to reflect the opinions or views of BestExchangeRates.com or its affiliates, nor should they be construed as a recommendation or advice to engage in any financial transactions. Read more